Rum nights 2012!

Forget Johnny Depp - Start Your Own Rum Diary!
Rum- one of the most consumed alcoholic beverages worldwide, the history of rum
remains a point of contention. It is generally accepted that rum originated on
the island of Barbados; documentation exists from the mid-1600s that describes
“Rumbullion” or “Kill-Devill” a “hot, hellish and terrible liquor” being
consumed 10 years after the first sugar plantation was established.
Rum is made from molasses, a by-product of the sugar refining process. Slaves
working on the plantation were given molasses that were deemed back then as
useless by the plantation owner. Conversely, rum agricole and cachaca are made
from the sugar cane juice made by pressing the cane.
Shortly after Jamaica was taken over by the British from Spain, rum was put into oak
barrels and brought across the ocean as it did not spoil after a few months like
beer. In fact, the time in the barrels along with the slow, rocking movement of
the ship imparted an amber colour to the rum and helped to mellow out the taste.
It is because of this that modern day distillers age and refine rum in oak
barrels. The earliest batches would have been quite harsh and most probably had to be diluted
to avoid alcohol poisoning. Today, there is a wide variety of rums - different
flavours, ages and terroir-based nuances contribute to an ever-growing
selection. Distillers continue to refine their product, some holding on to
time-honoured techniques and traditions while other push the envelope with
innovative methods.
It’s possible to talk about rum for ages; everything from how many distilleries now
burn the “bagasse” or processed sugar cane to power their factories to Cruzan
using only rainwater in their distillation process is fascinating. However, the
best way to familiarize oneself with liquor is to drink it. Over the next 17
weeks, the Reef Restaurant invites you to get to know 17 premium, top-shelf rums
through interactive complimentary tastings. For more information check out our
website at http://www.thereefrestaurant.com/.