2 days ago
Rum was born in Barbados, not Cuba
As a former high commissioner for Barbados to the United Kingdom, I need to address the assertion in your article that 'rum as we know it was invented in Cuba in 1862' (Over a barrel: lack of sugar throws Cuba's rum industry into crisis, 30 May). There are many things I commend Cuba for: its public health system and medical technologies, a strong sports culture, cigars and an overall resilience and innovativeness, as exemplified in the vintage American cars that cruise the streets of Havana.
However, while Cuba, along with Barbados, Guatemala, Guyana and Haiti are the few countries where I imbibe 'Nelson's blood' due to a discerning palate, Barbados singularly deserves credit as the birthplace of rum. This tiny, most-easterly island in the Caribbean is the home of rum, made from molasses, the sweet, tar-like byproduct of sugar cane production, which was initially considered waste. A document from 1651 identifies 'rumbullion' as a pre-eminently Bajan product. Mount Gay rum, established in 1703 by Sir John Gay Alleyne, is the world's oldest continuously operating rum distillery.
It is noteworthy that the smooth, velvety texture for which good rum is renowned is part of an evolutionary process. Before double distillation became standard, it had a harsh taste and carried the name 'Kill-devil' as its high alcohol content was considered devilish, able to easily overwhelm the drinker. That remains a possibility for the unwise or unsuspecting.
As well as being the home of the oldest rum, Barbados also produces some of the best. The International Wine and Spirit Competition honoured the Barbados-brand RL Seale Distilling's Foursquare 14-year-old Equipoise rum with the 2024 rum trophy, recognising it as the world's finest rum. Guy HewittBrixton, London
