Jamaican pot still rum is a unique and often overlooked style spirit that offers a distinct and complex flavor profile, making it a great option for those looking to branch out from their usual whiskey choices. Despite its distinctiveness, it remains overshadowed by other more popular spirits. However, it’s a great value for any spirits enthusiast looking for something new and exciting to try.
One of the main characteristics of Jamaican pot still rum is its distinctive, full-bodied flavor, which sets it apart from other rums. Unlike other types of rum, which are typically made from a blend of molasses and other sugarcane by-products, Jamaican pot still rum is made entirely from sugarcane juice. This gives it a distinct, almost vegetal flavor that sets it apart from other rums. Additionally, many Jamaican pot still rums are aged in oak barrels, which imparts flavors of vanilla, caramel, and spices.
The distinct funkiness of Jamaican pot still rum comes from the unique blend of yeast strains and fermentation methods used by Jamaican distillers. These methods produce a wide range of flavors and aromas, including fruity and floral notes, as well as a distinct “hogo” or “funky” aroma. This aroma is often described as pungent, tropical and earthy, and is a result of the use of wild yeasts and bacteria during fermentation. This unique blend of yeasts and bacteria is what gives Jamaican pot still rum its distinct, complex flavor profile and sets it apart from other rums. Pot distillation is a traditional method used in Jamaica, and is known for producing rums with a bold, complex flavor.
Esters (organic compounds commonly found in Jamacian rum) are responsible for giving Jamaican rum its characteristic fruity and floral aromas and flavors. Fruity esters can give Jamaican rum flavors such as banana, pineapple, apple, and citrus. Floral esters can give rum fragrances such as rose, jasmine, and violet. Spicy esters can give rum flavors such as clove, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Climate and duration of fermentation also play a role in the formation of esters. High temperatures and longer fermentation times are known to increase the production of esters. Jamaican rum distillers often use high temperatures and long fermentation times to increase the production of esters and contribute to the unique flavor profile of Jamaican rum.
In the traditional Jamaican rum-making process, dunder is added to the wash (mixture of water, sugar and yeast) before fermentation. Dunder is the liquid left in a boiler after distilling a batch of rum. Dunder serves as a source of yeast and other microorganisms that are used to ferment the wash. The microorganisms in the dunder, including yeasts, bacteria and wild yeasts, can produce a wide range of desireable flavors.
Aging Jamaican rum in a tropical climate speeds up the aging process due to the warmer temperatures and higher humidity. This causes the rum to absorb more of the flavors and characteristics from the oak barrels it is aged in, resulting in a richer, more complex flavor profile. However, it also means that the aging process is less predictable and can be more difficult to control. This is why some rum producers prefer to age their rum in cooler climates, where the aging process is slower and more consistent.
Jamaican pot still rum is a great value for those looking to branch out from whiskey. It can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a variety of cocktails. It also pairs well with a wide range of foods, from spicy dishes to chocolate desserts.
Jamaican pot still rum is overlooked is because it’s not as widely available as other types of rum or whiskey. However, for those who are willing to seek it out, the rewards are well worth the effort. Not only will you discover a new and delicious spirit, but you’ll also find that many they’re priced more affordably than many high-end whiskeys. Its a fantastic option for those looking to branch out from their usual whiskey choices and explore new flavor profiles. Its distinctive, full-bodied flavor, versatility, and affordability make it a great value for any spirits enthusiast. So next time you’re at the Dogwood, be sure to give Jamaican pot still rum a try. You might just be surprised by how much you enjoy it.
Here are some of our favorite Jamacian Pot Still Rums sold at Dogwood Wine and Spirits:
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