ENJOYING
RUM
We believe that the best rums, like any of the world’s greatest whiskies and brandies, just shouldn’t be adulterated with mixers.
Some spent over two decades patiently evolving in the quiet of a wooden barrel to reach their exceptional qualities after all.
We suggest pouring all House of Rum expressions in a fine glass and savouring them neat.
Alternatively, they can also be served on ice – in which case high-quality, large format ice is advised – or diluted with a few drops of mineral water by means of a pipette or a small water jug.
APPEARANCE
You are welcome to savour House of Rum in any setting that suits your preference, whether while perusing a glossy magazine, indulging in a cinematic masterpiece, conversing with friends, or contemplating life while puffing on a Habano.
Should you be curious to fully appreciate its qualities in full however, consider pouring a small measure into a glass with no ice, and take a moment to follow the steps outlined below.
Closely examine the Rum’s appearance. Many Rums adjust their colour for consistency between batches by adding caramel, but House of Rum follows a different approach.
We bottle all our expressions with the natural colour acquired during the ageing process, making its evaluation an integral part of the tasting experience, just as significant as any other aspect in the process. Let the Rum’s colour spark your imagination.
Does it resemble the golden hue of straw or perhaps the burnished copper shade of an aged coin?
AROMA
Now, take a moment to inhale the aroma of the liquid. Your sense of smell can reveal just as much, if not more, about the character of the Rum than your taste buds alone.
Be mindful, however, that all House of Rum expressions come at cask strength – some above 60% abv – so approach the sniffing process with caution and gradually bring your nose closer to the glass. The higher alcohol content will allow you to perceive much of its complex aromas from a certain distance.
As you sniff your Rum, allow your mind to wander. Do you detect hints of vanilla, oak, leather, smoke, sultanas, caramel, or even a touch of cigar box or tropical fruit? Some of these scents may feel familiar, evoking memories of your favourite Single Malt or Cognac. Others might be more elusive, yet still linked to memories, making the familiarity they evoke no less compelling.
TEXTURE
This is the point to take a good sip. As you do, pay attention to the Rum’s texture and how it interacts with your palate, as the mouthfeel is an essential element in the overall tasting experience.
Does it feel lean and light? Rich and opulent? Soft and creamy? Or perhaps waxy?
As you savour the Rum on your palate, you may encounter some of the same notes you detected on the nose, but be prepared to uncover new flavours and aspects of the Rum's character, too.
Are there hints of spiciness or savoury undertones? Do you detect notes of liquorice or the richness of a dark chocolate bar? Perhaps there's a touch of stone fruit or the exotic sweetness of coconut.
Now, swallow and enjoy the finish, as the flavours linger in your mouth. You might well perceive further nuances once the liquid has gone away, as the finest Rums are distinguished by their nuanced and complex nature.
In fact, their aromas and flavours can evolve over time, so a second sip may lead to an entirely different and equally intriguing tasting experience. So pour again, and give it another go.