The Best Rum: A Guide For Pirates And Drink Snobs Alike
It wasn’t until 1970 when the Royal Navy ended its daily rum ration, when it was deemed ‘inappropriate to operate ship’s machinery’ after receiving the allowance, which equated to two double shots. Fair enough.
When you consider that Navy Strength required rum to be at least 57% ABV, it’s a good job that breathalyzers have been a relatively recent innovation.
The early sailors were a resourceful breed. The expression ‘proof’ in terms of alcohol strength came from these ships, where they would mix rum with gunpowder. If the gunpowder still ignited when lit, it was ‘proof’ that it was 57% alcohol or higher.
They also knew the value of morale in the workplace. Even Blackbeard – the most fearsome man-manager to sail the Seven Seas – knew how to keep productivity levels high in taxing times. “Such a day; rum all out,” the pirate mused in his log. “Our company somewhat sober; a damned confusion amongst us! Rogues a plotting. Talk of separation. So, I looked sharp for a prize and took one with a great deal of liquor aboard. Then all things went well again.” Middle managers, take note.
The Best Rum Brands
Sometimes, it’s better to take your purchasing advice from those who have spent a lifetime dedicating themselves to the cause.
“There’s so many good quality rum brands out there. Generally, I would look for brands that are not scared to talk about their production techniques and focus on the quality of the liquid rather than the marketing,” says says Damian Williams, manager at Opium bar in London’s Soho.
Foursquare Distillery
Asked about his favorite rum brands, Williams recommends, “anything from the Foursquare distillery in Barbados, particularly their FOURSQUARE branded limited editions.” Foursquare Rum Distillery is located on a former sugar plantation whose origins go all the way back to the early 1700s. For five years in a row, Foursquare won ISC Rum Producer of the Year. Their rums are aged for ten to 16+ years, and it’s no wonder they’re at the top of our list.
