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Our rums from India

If there is a country unknown to Westerners for its rum production, India is perhaps the most emblematic. Sugar cane has been present for 4000 years and since the 19th century, rum has been developed there on a large scale. Today, India is the world's largest producer of sugar cane. The molasses is not only used to create rum, but also other styles of spirits like vodka or imitation brandies. The local market is huge with its billion and a half potential consumers and it is the Old Monk brand, existing since 1954, which is the most popular in the country. Very present also in its export to the Asian market, Indian rum is one of the world leaders by volume.

 
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€0.00 - €170.00

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37 % ABV - 65 % ABV

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7 years old - 14 years old

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Discovering Indian rum is venturing into a world of exotic flavors and a fascinating history. Made from sugarcane, this alcoholic beverage is the result of ancient craftsmanship dating back to the 5th century. In this article, we invite you to explore the origins, production methods, and tasting characteristics that make Indian rum a true sensory experience.

The Origin of Indian Rum: Between Legend and Reality

The traces of the first sugarcane distillations in India date back to the 5th century, long before the arrival of European colonists. It is therefore difficult to determine precisely when and how Indian rum came into existence. According to some sources, it was born on the banks of the Ganges, where sugarcane had been cultivated for millennia. Others claim it originated from the island of Chios, Greece, where a sugarcane-based spirit called "rhakion" was already being produced.

Indian Rum: A Complex Cultural Heritage

Indian rum carries within it the multiple influences that have shaped the peninsula's history. Arab merchants, Portuguese colonists, and the British all contributed to shaping its identity. Today, there are several types of Indian rum, each representative of a specific region and craftsmanship.

Different Production Methods of Indian Rum

Indian rum is made from sugarcane, a tropical plant that thrives in the coastal and mountainous regions of India. Two main production methods are used to obtain this enchanting beverage:

  1. Fermentation and distillation of sugarcane juice: This traditional method involves extracting sugarcane juice, fermenting it, and distilling it to produce rum. This is the case for rums from Goa or Karnataka, which offer complex and fruity aromas.
  2. Fermentation and distillation of molasses: Molasses is a byproduct of sugar production, obtained after sugar crystallization. It is used as the raw material to produce sweeter and milder rums, as seen in the famous Old Monk.

Aging: A Key Step to Refine the Flavors of Indian Rum

After distillation, Indian rum is often aged in oak barrels, imparting complex aromas and a beautiful amber color. The duration of aging varies depending on the producers and the desired type of rum, ranging from several months to several years.

Tasting Notes of Indian Rum

Indian rum stands out for its aromatic richness and diverse flavor palette. Here are some of the notes frequently found in these rums:

  • Tropical fruits: mango, pineapple, passion fruit... Indian rums are often characterized by exotic and sunny aromas.
  • Spices: cardamom, cinnamon, cloves... Indian rum embodies the richness of Indian cuisine, known for its subtle and fragrant spices.
  • Woody and roasted notes: thanks to aging in oak barrels, some Indian rums develop complex and warm aromas reminiscent of tobacco, vanilla, or caramel.

How to Enjoy Indian Rum?

To fully appreciate the flavors of Indian rum, we recommend savoring it neat at room temperature in a suitable glass (such as a whiskey glassor tulip glass). You can also use it to create exotic and flavorful cocktails, like the famous Ti' Punch or Daiquiri.

Indian Rum: A Growing Beverage

Still relatively unknown on the international stage, Indian rum is nonetheless a high-quality product that is increasingly appealing to enthusiasts. Local producers are launching initiatives to promote this traditional and authentic beverage, including rum festivals, tastings, and partnerships with renowned cocktail bars. There is no doubt that Indian rum still has some pleasant surprises in store for us!