Jamaica is an exporter of numerous items consumed around the globe, certainly one of which was an enormous draw for the island final week because the nation showcased a few of its finest merchandise on the 2024 Jamaica Rum Pageant in Montego Bay on July 18. Good rum.
The expertise included a number of manufacturers native to this land providing samples of their coveted wares to the plenty, sipping cocktails, transferring to the sounds of dancehall music, taking part in get together video games, having fun with loads of meals and workshops and extra. The overwhelming majority of attendees had been native Jamaicans, which was an excellent alternative for me as an American to essentially observe what the folks on the island like reasonably than simply googling some American who likes excessive. thought.
Company who weathered some tough climate that evening had been rewarded with dwell performances from artists together with Joby Jay, Harry Toddler and the King of Dancehall himself, Benny Beenie Man, who closed his hit set together with his music, accompanied by an orchestra.
Whereas the music makes the evening extra thrilling, let’s get into why you’re right here. From my very own statement, these are the most well-liked rums amongst Jamaicans on the annual occasion.
-
Lei and nephew
Picture credit score: David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Pictures for Wray & Nephew.
Wray & Nephew’s inclusion on this checklist will not shock even the layman rum connoisseur, because it is among the most well-known and well-liked Jamaican rums on the earth. From Notting Hill to Flatbush Avenue, this can be a best choice, in addition to throughout the nation. In actual fact, it’s typically given away on particular events and is a staple in lots of Jamaican households.
Since that is an over-fortified rum, it begins out spicy with notes of caramel, molasses, and numerous spices, after which banana, orange peel, and pineapple give it a fruity funk, It in the end balances out on the palate, leading to a wealthy, clean mouthfeel. Even with its assured aroma and efficiency, it blends nicely into a wide range of cocktails (so long as your bartender would not go too loopy) and is a favourite amongst these visiting the model’s occasions throughout the holidays.
advocate: ray and nephew white rum
-
Rum Bar
Picture supply: Lamb Bar promotional picture.
The Worthy Park Property model is a relative newcomer amongst its counterparts which have been round for hundreds of years. Nonetheless, the 2007 product has gained a loyal fan base on the island for its high-quality, inexpensive merchandise which can be appropriate for any event.
Whereas their award-winning White Overproof choice is my favourite, each their Rum Cream and Blonde variations stand out for me, the latter of which delivers great almond and jam notes on the primary whiff. The perfume. The palate is fruity, with inexperienced apple and pineapple flavors peaking in pot-still molasses, balanced by caramel and what I feel is a brown sugar end.
In addition they have one of the best dance staff within the joint, interval!
advocate: Rum Bar Jamaican Gin Rum
-
rum fireplace
Picture Credit score: Hampton Property Rum
Through the pageant, rum fireplace stalls are set on fireplace, with company swarming the charismatic bartenders reaching for his or her empty glasses searching for the native favourite.
The Hampden Property model describes Rum Fireplace’s White Overproof as “highly effective and funky,” they usually undoubtedly weren’t mendacity, providing notes of tangy spice, tropical fruits like ripe bananas and mango, and even a touch of smokiness. . The fruits infuse the style with peppery notes, then all of the substances are blended collectively for a balanced end.
Though rum is a very potent liquor, it is made with mixology in thoughts, so there is not any want to fret about it overpowering your cocktail. Whether or not you combine it or drink it straight, get able to get pleasure from this Jamaican deal with.
advocate: Rum fireplace white tremendous normal rum
-
single musk
Picture supply: Monymusk
At this occasion I used to be an enormous fan of Monymusk Plantation’s Basic Gold, each neat and infused with their signature ‘Monyrita’ system, which I carried across the venue with it in a festive glass for just some minutes Go.
The clear, fruity aroma of this spicy rum transfers superbly to the palate, with notes of vanilla and caramel percolating via for a clean end. Positively successful with the gang in attendance.
advocate: Monimask Basic Gin Rum
-
appleton manor
Picture credit score: Appleton Property
As a co-sponsor of the occasion, Appleton Property was not solely well-attended but in addition obtained a heat welcome, with some attendees clamoring for samples and cocktails from the revered rum producer.
It is probably the most approachable choice, a signature mix with notes of peaches and dried apricots on the fruity opening, with molasses offering a wealthy mouthfeel that may be loved by itself or paired with many cocktails, like on this one Identical to you probably did in your comfortable days. Clearly beloved by the folks of the motherland.
advocate: Appleton Property Specialty Mix
