The Rum Trader

Mount Gay Eclipse and Bacardi Oakheart

2011-08-11T18:21:00.001-04:00

Although I have not posted very much to this blog recently it does not mean that I have stopped buying RUM. I just got back from my local liquor warehouse with these two additions. A specially wrapped, blue label bottle of Mount Gay Eclipse and two mini-bottles of Bacardi's new Oakheart Spiced RUM. I'm always leary about Bacardi RUMs because of their mass-produced nature but I since this one is new I thought I'd at least buy a couple of minis.

Puerto Rico gets new RUM distillery

2011-07-27T09:46:00.000-04:00

Puerto Rico's RUM production has taken a severe hit in the past year with Captain Morgan moving it's production facilities to US Virgin Islands. The estimate loss to the country is $140 million/year.

Club Caribe Distillers, LLC plans to open a new distillery in Cidra, PR that could help offset some of that loss.

The company plans to produce up to 10 million gallons that will include Club Caribe (silver rum), Black Roberts (spiced rum) and Carlos Rum (gold rum). The plan is to distribute to the US market.

New rum distillery to open in central Puerto Rico

By DANICA COTO, Associated Press – Jul 6, 2011

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — A new rum distillery will open in a former pharmaceutical plant in central Puerto Rico, helping to offset the loss of Captain Morgan rum from the island, economic officials said Wednesday.

The Club Caribe LLC distillery is scheduled to open in early 2012 in the mountain town of Cidra and will produce 2 million gallons of rum its first year as part of a 20-year deal, said senior vice president Alberto Rivera.

The local company is affiliated to Cc1, a Puerto Rican company that distributes Coca-Cola products in the U.S. territory.

Club Caribe expects to employ 25 people and invest $10 million in machinery and equipment as it moves into the old GlaxoSmithKline factory.

"We're going to have a significant production of rum on a global level," said Jose Perez-Riera, Puerto Rico's economic development secretary.

The distillery eventually will produce up to 10 million gallons of rum, both to sell in bulk and as private labels including Club Caribe, a white rum; Black Roberts, a spiced rum; and Carlos Rum, a gold rum, Rivera said.

The company will target the U.S. mainland market.

"Vodka is the most consumed liquor in the U.S., but that is changing," Rivera said.

The anticipated production of 2 million gallons next year will eventually generate $20 million in revenue for the island, said Jorge Junquera, deputy executive director of the Puerto Industrial Development Company, a state corporation that promotes business on the island.

The type of affiliation that Club Caribe Distillers, LLC, has with Cc1 is unclear, and a spokeswoman for the company did not clarify the relationship.

Puerto Rico is expected to lose $140 million next year as a result of the lucrative production of Captain Morgan rum moving to the neighboring U.S. Virgin Islands.

In January 2009, liquor company Diageo PLC signed a long-term lease to build a Captain Morgan rum distillery in the Virgin Islands in exchange for a portion of the territory's excise-tax revenue, estimated at $2.7 billion over 30 years.

The distillery opened in late 2010 on the island of St. Croix and is expected to generate more than $100 million a year in revenue for the next 30 years.

"We are losing a mountain of money with Diageo's departure," Junquera said, referring to Diageo terminating its rum production contract in Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico has argued that its neighbor unfairly lured away business by using revenue from a tax levied on every bottle produced in the two Caribbean territories.

All but 25 cents of the $13.50 in federal excise taxes levied on per proof gallon of rum produced in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands goes back to the local governments to spend on infrastructure and public services.

After the loss of Captain Morgan rum, Puerto Rico pursued several deals to help generate revenue.

In November 2010, legislators voted to increase the amount of money spent on promoting the island's rum industry from 10 percent to 25 percent of federal excise taxes.

In February, the government awarded Bacardi a $95 million grant to renovate its production plant in exchange for maintaining a minimum level of production for the next 20 years, which translates into more than $230 million in yearly revenue through excise taxes.

Puerto Rico's rum industry employs about 4,500 workers and generates $400 million annually, more than 70 percent of which comes from Bacardi.

Blackwell Fine Jamaican Rum

2011-07-27T09:37:00.000-04:00

A new Jamaican RUM, Blackwell Fine Jamaican Rum, will be washing up on US shores this summer. They recently announced a distribution deal was in place. I wonder how many years I'll have to wait until I find it in my home state of SC? Maybe I'll get lucky and it will be available @ DrinkUpNY.com!

Blackwell Fine Jamaican Rum Announces Distribution in the United States With Classic & Vintage Division of Domaine Select Wine Estates (DSWE)

NEW YORK, July 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Music industry legend and founder of both Island Records and the award-winning Island Outpost hotel group, Chris Blackwell, is proud to announce the United States launch of Blackwell Fine Jamaican Rum.

Highly sought-after, yet previously only available in Jamaica, Blackwell's eponymous rum will be available in the United States starting in July 2011. Domaine Select Wine Estates (DSWE) has been named the exclusive importer in the U.S. as Blackwell Rum joins their Classic & Vintage Portfolio. Blackwell Rum will be exclusively distributed in NY and NJ by DSWE's Merchants wholesale division.

Blackwell Rum perfectly captures the essence of Jamaica in beverage form. Referred to as "black gold" among those in-the-know, the rum is the brainchild of Chris Blackwell and advertising industry guru Richard Kirshenbaum, with whom Blackwell has partnered. Raised in Jamaica, Blackwell hails from one of the island's oldest rum producing families. Meanwhile, Kirshenbaum has steered leading beverage brands, including Hennessy, Moet & Chandon, Dom Perignon, Grand Marnier, Guinness, Don Julio, Ciroc Vodka and The Tuscan Wines of Ruffino, among others.

"It is with great pleasure that we announce our partnership with Domaine Select," said Chris Blackwell. "We searched for a well respected industry distributor that has both a stellar reputation and an entrepreneurial spirit, and we have found the perfect partner in this regard with Domaine Select."

"We are thrilled with the addition of Blackwell's Fine Jamaican Rum to our Classic & Vintage Collection," says Paolo Domeneghetti, Founder & C.E.O. of Domaine Select Wine Estates. "With a family history in the rum trade that dates back to the 17th century, we believe that Chris Blackwell himself, together with his unique rum, represents the integrity and rich authenticity that makes this product a natural fit with our portfolio."

DSWE will begin immediate roll out of Blackwell Rum through its distribution network, in major markets across the United States this summer.

Vegas cocktails for Summer

2011-07-06T13:43:00.000-04:00

Interesting article interviewing various mixologists around the Las Vegas strip asking them for their best summer cocktail.

I'll have to try this recipe at home:

PINEAPPLE SURPRISE

- 1½ ounces Cruzan pineapple rum
- Juice of ½ lime
- ¾ ounce simple syrup
- 5 to 6 mint leaves
- 1 ounce strawberry puree

Shake all ingredients together, strain over a collins glass full of ice and top off with soda water.

-- Recipe from Martin Garcia, Beso/Eve

Pink Pigeon Spiced Rum Lands in the UK

2011-07-06T13:36:00.002-04:00

Article covering UK distribution launch:

The Indian Ocean Rum Company and Berry Bros. & Rudd Spirits have announced the UK launch of Pink Pigeon, the first super premium, spiced rum from the Island of Mauritius...

...Pink Pigeon spiced rum is named after the rare and endangered bird (of the same name) found on the island of Mauritius.

As part of the conservation effort, Pink Pigeon is a contributor to the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation.

PRODUCED BY MEDINE DISTILLERY CO. LTD.
BOTTLED BY MEDINE RUM LTD, BAMBOUS, REPUBLIC OF MAURITIUS.

Allsorts Liquor Scented High Lather Soap Bars -- Prohibition Spiced Rum

2011-06-17T07:40:00.000-04:00

This is kinda fun.

Description from posting:

Trivia: Apr 7, 1933 - At the stroke of midnight on April 7, 1933, Prohibition was history,*" the news release reads. "After thirteen years as contraband, “intoxicating liquors” were once again legal. The night before has come to be known as New Beer's Eve and we Chicagoans invite you to kick off Prohibition month with a celebratory round on us

Scented with fresh forest grown Cinnamon, Cloves and citrus blends of essential oils The Spiced Rum Vegan High Lather Bar will fill your shower with an zesty blend of East Indies spices. Made with the finest, sustainably sourced/fair wage, organic plant oils; these bars were produced using the most ethical considerations for the bio-sphere, it's creatures and your family.

We invite you to purchase this bar for your family and we've purposely priced (call it self subsidized) our Allsorts Organic Vegan Soap Bars to demonstrate the value of organic products and as special thank you to our Facebook and Twitter friends who support our carbon neutral goals by voting with their dollar bills. By supporting the use of sundries that do not contain dangerous chemicals and toxins; you promote a healthy lifestyle and begin your own life's adventure by getting a better understanding of what we put down our drains and into our planet.

Each bar is wrapped with an adventure for the curious or student of Chicago Prohibition Era history. Open the wrapper to reveal a detailed adventure that will lead you to the intersection of vice and victim: 13 unlucky years unveiled as you travel through the city's "noble experiment" and witness the creation of The Chicago Outfit and American Organized Crime.

Stay tuned to our exclusive feeds, twitter.com/EthicallyEngnrd or facebook.com/EthicallyEngineered, as we roll out the next bars: Gin and Tonic + Whiskey Sour.

And don't forget to leave feedback or follow our social mantra: see it. share it. tweet it. post it.

Kōloa Rum Company Expanding

2011-04-09T16:27:00.000-04:00

Kōloa Rum Company announced a significant expansion of its brand in two very important markets: California and Canada

"Kōloa Rum Company announced a significant expansion of its brand distribution with the appointment of Western States Beverages as its exclusive distributor throughout the state of California and Marram Fine Wines Ltd. servicing the four Western Provinces of Canada, (Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia). According to Bob Gunter, President of Kōloa Rum Company, “Our Agreements with Western States Beverages and Marram Wines provide us with an excellent opportunity to enter these two very important markets. Their focus on emerging boutique spirits brands, enthusiasm for our products and aggressive approach to targeted sales and distribution match our growth strategies precisely."

"Kōloa Rum Company produces premium, artisanal, single-batch Hawaiian Rum at their distillery in Kalaheo, Kaua`i and operates Hawaii’s first and only distilled spirits Tasting Room & Company Store on the grounds of Kilohana Plantation, near Lihue. The Company’s multiple award-winning portfolio of Premium Kaua`i White, Gold, and Dark Rum will soon be complemented by the addition of their Kaua`i Spice Rum, Kōloa Ready-to-Drink Mai Tai and related cocktails."

Read More

Coral Reef Restaurant (Sacramento, CA)

2011-02-17T09:05:00.000-05:00

"Perhaps this excerpt from the menu's 'mission statement' is the definitive word on the Coral Reef: 'To those discriminating persons who are connoisseurs of good food and properly mixed cocktails … we welcome you.'"

Here's an enjoyable article series celebrating the Coral Reef restaurant formerly of Sacramento, CA. The restaurant was a city landmark from late 1940s-1990s but it sadly closed for good in 1994.

Reliving other's memories of their celebrations, dining and drinking at this lost Tiki treasure was quite enjoyable. The author managed to interview the Coral Reef's long time bartender and he shared some of their best cocktail recipes.

So take a moment to read the article, jot down the cocktail recipes and make some Coral Reef memories for yourself; I know I will!

Brugal Dominican White Label Rum

2011-02-13T00:13:00.000-05:00

I'll admit up front that I like Dominican Republic RUMs quite a bit. They typically are premium quality with understated, smooth as silk flavor. Brugal Anejo happens to be a personal favorite. So I was very excited to sip on Brugal's White Label.

The vintage label on Brugal White RUM tells you it is ALL about tradition. From its "Founded in 1888" declaration, its green hewed bottle, its old script lettering and its eight early 20th century gold medals earned, Brugal lets you know that this rum has stood the test of time. Its long tradition proudly lets consumers know what to expect. Brugal's White Label has a light coconut/sweet floral aroma and a crystal clear color. For an 80 proof RUM it has a stronger initial burn than I anticipated. It has an understated from start to finish with hints of coconut, sugar and charcoal. Its remain is as fresh and sweet as one would expect from a well made Dominican Republic RUM. White Label over ice is a mellow sipper but nothing overly special. It is probably better suited for Tiki drinks. My last taste test is mixing my RUM with Coke Zero. This proved that a light RUM like Brugal White is easily lost when mixed. Brugal White Label has a long tradition as a light and mellow white RUM perfect for cocktails. 6 of 10.

CayRum

2011-02-10T21:39:00.000-05:00

I really enjoyed this story of a father & son who took a family RUM cocktail recipe and started their own company. CayRum mixes aged Dominican Republic RUM, ginger and honey. It doesn't sound like something I normally would enjoy but I'd love to try it if I have a chance.

Cockspur Five Star Fine Rum

2011-02-08T21:25:00.000-05:00

Barbados is the birth place of RUM. Cockspur Five Star Fine RUM was established in 1884. Five Star is a three year blend that carries on the fine tradition of Barbados RUM distillation. Made from rich molassas, it's double distilled in copper pots with natural underground springs water.

Five Star is an 80 proof young RUM that has a fine winter-wheat hew. The cork sealed, old style, bubble neck bottle proudly boasts a royal green-breasted gamecock. Being a proud University of South Carolina Gamecock, I've enjoyed Cockspur Five Star at many a tailgate party.

The presentation of Cockspur Five Star is clean with strong legs. It's warm aroma carries a rich creamy butterscoth, slightly burnt carmel sweetness. Yum!

Drinking this one neat reveals a slightly sweet and spicy, middle-aged RUM that has a dry, lightly oaky flavor. Putting it over ice brings out more of the oak flavor and better reveals it's light butterscotch heart.

This RUM is almost too good to mix with my standard Coke Zero but it's too young to consistently drink straight. The oaky, dry spice flavor makes for an interesting mix with the sweetness of the Coke Zero. After a few sips I noticed a buttery, bananas foster linger that I was not expecting. Good stuff. 7.5 of 10

"The Rum That Invented Rum" - Mt. Gay's Latest Ad Campaign For Sailors

2011-02-02T14:35:00.000-05:00

The NY Times had an interesting article covering Mt. Gay Rum's new advertising campaign "Sailing Spoken Here" targeting sailors.

"The microsite is lightly branded, in keeping with a belief that overcommercializing an online destination will only discourage computer users from visiting."

"The intended audience for the campaign are those who “are so passionate about sailing that they organize their lives around it,” says Daniel Cabaleiro, international brand director for Mount Gay at Rémy Cointreau, who is based in New York."

"Rémy Cointreau 'believes this category will become premium,' he adds, as have liquor categories like Scotch whisky, tequila and vodka, 'and we already see signs of that.'"

"The reason is that 'rum can be a very elegant and complex spirit,' Mr. Cabaleiro says, “not just a base for a busy cocktail.'"

Bundaberg Rum Commercials

2011-02-02T12:31:00.000-05:00

I found the series of television commercials for Bundaberg RUM on YouTube to be quite humorous. I thought I would share them here and ask the question...how can I get some Bundaberg RUM here in the United States?

Westerhall Plantation Rum

2011-01-28T12:57:00.000-05:00

Westerhall Plantastion RUM is a light, young RUM distilled from fermented molasses in Grenada, West Indies. Most Westerhall Plantation bottles come with a black wax seal unfortunetly mine did not. $24.99 for 750ml.

At 86 proof, Westerhall is slightly higher alcohol content than most other RUMs. Even without the wax seal I really like their bottle. It's got an "old world" feel including a Grenada island map, north star, sailing ship, etc. My bottle also included a batch number (8001) which, though meaningless to most, was a nice touch.

It's light honey color matches its honey, citrus and light carmel aroma. I was a bit worried about drinking it straight since it's only aged three years but it proved to be fine neat or on ice. The higher alcohol content meant it packed a strong spicey burn but the linger of orange/citrus and lemon grass made it more interesting than your average young RUM.

It's understated tones resonated when mixed with Coke Zero and was delightful. The orange/citrus, lemon grass with notes of vanilla, carmel and very subtle oak and pepper were very enjoyable. I liked this RUM a lot. 7.5 of 10.

Ron de Jeremy - The Adult Rum

2011-01-26T11:20:00.000-05:00

It seems that aged Porn star Ron Jeremy is launching Ron de Jeremy RUM in the near future. You can pre-register for a bottle on their website.

From their website:

"Drink of a LEGEND

Ron de Jeremy Rum is and exceptionally well-balanced 7-year old premium rum from Panama. It has an inviting light amber color with very attractive copper hues. The aroma is that of carefully aged rum, with a harmoniously balanced orchestra of oak, fruit and spices. It opens up smoothly, showcasing a high level of craftsmanship. The oak comes through robustly and satisfyingly, yet gently enough to allow hints of vanilla and raw sugarcane to reveal them selves. The finish is elegant and long.

Ron de Jeremy Rum is hand crafted by another legend, 72-year old Cuban-born Master Distiller Francisco "Don Pancho" Fernandez. Don Pancho inspected his best barrels to hand pick the ones worthy of becoming Ron de Jeremy.

Ron de Jeremy sips perfectly, neat or savored over the rocks, and mixes beautifully to make superb drinks.

ENJOY RESPONSIBLY"

Sailors Rum - Spice Caribbean and Coconut

2011-01-11T23:41:00.000-05:00

I finally got around to finishing off my Sailor's Spice Caribbean RUM and Sailors Coconut Caribbean RUM. I didn't realize exactly how long I've had these two bottles until I started researching the brand. Apparently William Grant & Sons Distillers Ltd. killed this brand two years ago (about the same time it start distributing Sailor Jerry's Spiced RUM)...yikes! These two bottles got shoved to the back of my cabinets for a reason...neither are any good. That could also explain why the brand is no longer around; just a guess.

Sailors Spice Caribbean RUM:
Its light golden color appears very watered down. The initial nose had a strong carmel tone with a light alcohol note but it disappeared quickly leaving a musky, skanky, burnt oil smell. Drinking it straight reveals a very peppery, vanilla flavor. Over ice the burnt oil aroma was less noticable and the peppery/vanilla remain. I didn't have my normal Coke Zero so I subbed Diet Coke. Yuck! I litterally wrote "Oh, bad! Yuck!" upon tasting this. I can see why this RUM was pulled. It has a horrible skunky, crude oil smell. It retains it's peppery flavor and peppery linger but the smell is aweful. Nothing good here...2 of 10.

Original Sailors Coconut Caribbean RUM:
This clear spirit maintains a light coconut, light peppery aroma with a slight alcohol hint. Drinking this straight reveals a candy sweetness with a nice, light coconut remain. This RUM is so sweet it tastes like a liquer. I was hoping ice would settle this RUM but it still is extremely sweet and sugary with only a slight hint of coconut flavor. Lastly, with Diet Coke, this RUM is completely lost. For the first time during a tasting I dumped my drink out because there was no reason to keep drinking this RUM. 3.5 of 10

Dirty Jobs - RUM Distillery

2011-01-11T09:37:00.000-05:00

Discovery Channel's "Dirty Jobs" visits the Newport RUM Distillery tonight @ 9pm.

"Mike heads to Newport Distillery to help the crew turn molasses into rum. Scouring copper, working with scalding liquid, hauling hoses and lugging molasses cubes are all just part of a hard day's work."

Newport Distillery produces Thomas Tew RUM which the distiller discribes as:

"For 135 years the once thriving Rhode Island distilling industry lay dormant. Finally, in 2007, Newport Distilling Company received the first license to distill in the state since the close of the John Dyer distillery. Naturally, the goal is to recreate the rum that had been world famous 250 years ago. Using the same blackstrap molasses, local water, and pot still techniques, this rum has been resurrected and is now called Thomas Tew."

2010 Tax Cuts for RUM Industry

2011-01-04T14:28:00.000-05:00

The 2010 extension of the Bush Tax cuts "increased tax rebates to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands from a tax on rum imported into the United States. The U.S. imposes a $13.50 per proof-gallon tax on imported rum, and sends most of the proceeds to the two U.S. territories.

Previously, the rebate was $10.50 a gallon. The new law extends a more generous rebate of $13.25 a gallon through 2011. Cost: $262 million."

AP Story

Informal Spiced RUM tasting

2010-12-27T16:10:00.001-05:00

With my family in town for the holidays, I invited my two brother-in-laws to join me in a RUM tasting. Since I had been drinking Kraken and Ginger Ale with dinner I thought I'd pull a number of Spiced RUMs out for us to sample.

I pulled out six Spiced RUMs: Seven Tiki Spiced RUM, Ron Diaz Gran Reserva Spiced RUM, Whaler's Spiced RUM, Kraken Black Spiced RUM, Tropic Isle Palms Spiced Cask RUM and Voodoo Spiced RUM.

Because my brothers are not regular drinkers I decided to keep the tasting informal. As we tried each RUM we talked about eachs appearance, aroma, taste and linger.

We were surprised by the lack of Spicyness with most of the samples. Only Seven Tiki and Kraken really showed traditional Spicy flavors while the Whaler's and Tropic Isle Palms were much sweeter than expected. All of the RUMs were good but none were truly great. We ranked them as follows:

1. Seven Tiki
2. Kraken
3. Whaler's
4. Voodoo
5. Ron Diaz Gran Reserva
6. Tropic Isle Palms

We all had a good time, got a little tipsy and I think my brothers have a better appreciation of RUM and eachs unique flavor.

Rum Of The Week

2010-12-10T18:02:00.000-05:00

Okay, I am going to try and improve my posting rate here. Since I broke my ankle and leg back in May my RUM tasting and enjoyment was forced to dropped off substantially.

Well, those days are over and its time to get back on the horse. It is my goal to blog about a new RUM each week for the forseeable future. Many of my friends brought me new, wonderful looking RUMs from their overseas travels (16 at last count) and its time to start drinking.

I also would like to start a "Cocktail of the Week" here and I've even toyed with running through some bartenders guides ala "Julie and Julia". We'll see what I can come up with and have some fun.

For now, in my friend Bryan Dold's immortal phrase from hight school..."Later days!"

Pirates, Privateers and Buccaneers

2010-08-22T21:45:00.000-04:00

The South Carolina State Museum is currently hosting a traveling exhibit "Pirates, Privateers and Buccaneers". The exhibit includes a pretty cool "Rum Bar" display with a few large RUM barrels; nice!

Rumrunners, Moonshiners and Bootleggers

2010-08-21T22:14:00.000-04:00

Currently watching "Rumrunners, Moonshiners and Bootleggers" on History Channel. Enjoy seeing Gary Regan telling stories. My favorite part is when they cover Capt. Bill McCoy ("The Real McCoy") and his off-shore "Rum Row". It was a floatilla of ships hauling massive amounts of Bahamian RUM that offloaded onto "contact boats" to run the spirits to shore. McCoy, and others, efforts forced the rapid expansion of the US Coast Guard. Fun!

Celebrate National RUM Day Today!!!!

2010-08-16T15:34:00.000-04:00

Today, August 16th, is National RUM Day and The Rum Trader hopes everyone will join him in celebrating the world's greatest spirit, RUM.

Break out the good stuff! Light RUM, Dark RUM, Gold RUM, Spiced RUM, Enfused RUM...it doesn't matter. Mix up a batch of Mai Tais, Zombies, Hurricanes, Navy Grog, Planters Punch, Cuba Libre...heck, I suggest you have one of EVERYTHING!. Neat or on the rocks, sip some Mt. Gay XO, Angustura 1919, Appleton Rum 21, Pyrat, Brugal, Flor de Cana, Goslings, Barbancourt, Lemon Hart...the list is endless.

So much RUM for one glorious day! I hope each of you, from this day forward, will join The Rum Trader by celebrating this "nectar of the gods" every single day.

Montanya RUM

2010-08-10T22:03:00.000-04:00

Per my usual routine I did a Google news search on RUM and came across an article about Colorado based Montanya RUM. I've never heard of this stuff but it sounds very interesting as it is mountain aged and is a domestic rum. I need to find a bottle of Montanya for research purposes. Montanya markets two RUMs and encourage people to use their RUMs in more exotic cocktails.

- Montanya Platino Light Rum
- Montanya Oro Dark Rum

Cruzan 9 Spiced RUM launched

2010-08-09T20:56:00.000-04:00

I missed this story a few weeks ago but I thought I would mention it here.

Cruzan 9's Blend of Aged Rum Infused With Nine Spices Offers Consumers a Premium Option

DEERFIELD, IL--(Marketwire - July 12, 2010) - Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Inc. [Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE: FO)], the leading American spirits company, and Cruzan® Rum, the legendary rum of St. Croix, today announced the newest addition to the Cruzan portfolio, a new spiced rum called Cruzan 9. With its unique blend of nine all natural spices, Cruzan 9 remains true to its heritage of premium craftsmanship, while confronting rum fans with a bolder, more dramatic spirit. The recipe is handcrafted by the Nelthropp family, who has been making rum on the island of St. Croix for generations. Made with Cruzan's award-winning aged rum, the result is a higher quality -- and more authentic -- spiced rum. Cruzan 9 will begin shipping to distributors in July and available to consumers at retail in August.

"Beam Global Spirits & Wine has a reputation for developing higher quality brands that shake up a category," said Amy Weisenbach, brand director, Cruzan Rum. "Spiced rum is one of the fastest growing distilled spirits, yet consumers didn't really have an option if they were looking for higher quality. The industry is full of gimmicks and pirates when it comes to spiced rum, but Cruzan 9 offers a 'real' rum experience."

Tasting Notes, Aroma and How to Enjoy Cruzan 9

80-proof Cruzan 9 has a bold and smooth taste and a rich amber color.
Nine spice blend includes vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, mace, allspice, pepper and juniper berry.

Taste -- involves complex layers of vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, warm spice and toasted woodnotes with an intense finish that is slightly dry.

Aroma -- a robust blend of vanilla, sweet caramel and dried spices.
Cruzan 9 is best enjoyed with cola or by itself over ice.

In addition to representing the blend of nine spices, the name Cruzan 9 is a nod to the island, referencing its nine districts. Named for the people of St. Croix (Crucians), Cruzan Rum is synonymous with the spirit of St. Croix and the unpretentious and authentic rum life. The Nelthropp family, who has called St. Croix home for eight generations and runs the distillery to this day, handcrafts each of its rums with all natural ingredients and a five-column distillation process. Cruzan touts one of the cleanest rums in the industry with its low levels of fusel oils, a by-product of the distillation process which, if not removed, can taint the smell and taste of the spirit. Its quality is also linked to the aging process, with most Cruzan rum varieties being aged a minimum of 14 months and up to 12 years.

"Cruzan 9 embodies the spirit of St. Croix," said Gary Nelthropp, Cruzan master distiller. "We've balanced the blend of spices to create something that will be new to many spiced rum drinkers, but will feel very familiar to the people of St. Croix, who enjoy the bold flavor and kick of classic spiced rums."

Cruzan 9 Recipes

CRUZAN 9 AND COLA
1.5 parts Cruzan 9
6 parts cola
1 lime wedge
Add Cruzan 9 and cola in an ice-filled pint glass. Garnish with lime wedge.

9 NOVA
(based on the classic Bossa Nova cocktail)
1 part Cruzan Light
1 part Cruzan 9
.5 part DeKuyper Apricot Brandy
1 part fresh lemon sour
3 parts pineapple juice
Shake all ingredients with ice and pour into a hurricane glass. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a dusting of fresh ground nutmeg.

Pricing and Availability
Cruzan 9 is available at the SRP of $15.99 for a 750 ml bottle.

In addition to Cruzan 9, the Cruzan portfolio also consists of Cruzan® Aged Light Rum, Cruzan® Aged Dark Rum, Cruzan® Single Barrel Estate Rum, Cruzan® Black Strap Rum, Cruzan® 151 Proof Rum and 10 flavored rums infused with extracts, such as vanilla, coconut, guava and black cherry. For more information about Cruzan Rum, and for additional cocktail recipes created with the full line of rums, visit www.cruzanrum.com.

Bacardi Test Marketing Seven Tiki Rum in Myrtle Beach, SC

2010-08-08T17:27:00.000-04:00

Not many cool things come to South Carolina (where I live) so I'll admit that I was excited to see Ben Arnold Distributors selected to test market Seven Tiki RUM in Myrtle Beach, SC.

A friend of mine spoke to a MB liquor store owner about his store's huge Seven Tiki display and how the spirit was selling. He said it was flying off the shelf so I hope that means good things for new RUMs coming to my backwards state.

Malibu Cocktails - No Shaker Needed

2010-08-05T18:15:00.000-04:00

Pernod Ricard has launched a new line of Malibu RUM ready-to-serve cocktails in a pouch. They're trying to create a viral campaign that is funny and pathetic at the same time. Hopefully the drinks are better than the campaign.

First up is the Porta Party Pro.

Next they've got the Shaker Shaper.

The videos show ridiculous cocktail mixing inventions that are supposed to demonstrate the utility of Malibu's three pre-mixed drinks: Caribbean Cosmo, Rum Punch, Tropical Mojito.

The RTS drinks come in "Convient eco-friendly 1.75L pouch with leak-proof nozzle" and are 15% alcohol.

Black Tot Rum - $1000/bottle

2010-07-31T14:25:00.000-04:00

So today is the 40th anniversary of the British Navy stopping sailor's daily RUM rations. It is known as ""Black Tot Day". Apparently, Speciality Drinks Ltd. bought the remaining RUM supply from Navy surplus and has launched it for sale under the name "Black Tot".

Only 6,000 bottles are available which explains the ridiculously high price tag. You do get a black walnut box, sleek black bottle of RUM, a nifty history book and a "half gill copper cup".

It's a high proof RUM (108 proof) and could be tasty but I cannot comprehend such a high price. I'll stick with a good Mt. Gay Extra Old, Pyrat or Angostura 1919; all about $30-40 dollars.

Seven Tiki Spiced RUM

2010-07-29T09:10:00.001-04:00

A couple of weeks prior to breaking my leg/ankle, a good friend brought me a bottle of Seven Tiki Spiced Rum back from his trip to Key West. Being that Seven Tiki is only available in California and Florida, I thought it was quite a nice gift for a RUM and tiki fanatic.

A month in the hospital and my new medication has prevented me from opening my gift. With my friend visiting last weekend I thought it would be good to pop the Seven Tiki open and have a sip.

While this isn't a formal review I will say I liked the Seven Tiki's vanilla, butterscoth smoothness with just a touch of fruit flavor (cherry, peach, maybe banana). Throw in the company of a good friend and it made for a nice evening. I promise to do a formal review soon.

TheRumTrader is down but not out

2010-06-25T21:34:00.000-04:00

I wanted to post a quick note apologizing to everyone for my lack of postings over the last two months. In early May I broke my ankle and leg and have spent nearly a month in the hospital.

My doctors have advised me against consuming alcohol while taking my current medications so my RUM reviews will be slow going for awhile.

Luckily I've got some great friends who continue to bring me some great RUMs back on their vacations. I know of bottles already brought from Belize, St. Thomas, St. Martin, etc. I am a luck man to have such great friends.

I'll keep some updates coming on some RUM news including the on going battle about Diageo's move to USVI.

Four Square Spice Rum

2010-04-23T13:30:00.000-04:00

I have to admit that I've had my bottle of Four Square Spiced RUM (Barbados) for a long time, perhaps two years. So I am not entirely sure if this RUM is simply light and delicate with only the slightest spicey tones or if my bottle has severly mellowed over time. I think the former is true because I want to remember noting, upon opening, that it's spice was minimal. That said, I liked this RUM.

The Four Square comes in an cool square bottle (see it's name) with a wax seal. The RUM has a appealing golden orange tone with strong, clingy legs. It's nose revealed a nice butterscotch fragrance with hints of nutmeg, vanilla and orange.

Without Ice: Four Square only had the slightest of burns with a sparingly light, dry aftertaste. While not very noticable in the taste, I did note a bit of spicey tingle on the tounge and palete; perhaps cinnimon?

With Ice: Yum. Adding a slight chill to the RUM defintely brings out more of the spicey flavor. Hints of light vanilla and complex herbals was unexpected.

With Coke Zero: Yikes, this is a disaster. Four Square is simply too delicate to mixed with something like Coke Zero; this killed all of the RUM flavor I was enjoying when it was on ice. No spice flavor and only the slightest vanilla notes. The RUM almost inhances the "Diet" flavor of the Coke Zero.
I would give Four Square Spiced RUM a 6.5 of 10.

Bizarre Bounty RUM Story

2010-04-13T10:23:00.000-04:00

Here's an interesting story: Nearly a year ago a couple, traveling from St. Lucia to London, befriend a fellow traveler who explains that he is over the liquor limit and requests that the couple take one of his bottles of RUM. "No problem", they say as they depart the plane and get into a taxi driven by another friend.

On their way home, in lieu of payment for the taxi ride, they offer the driver their newly found bottle of RUM; he accepts. The very, next day the taxi driver tragically dies of a heart attack.

Nearly a year after the cab driver's death, his nephew and his nephew's friend discover the bottle of RUM and decide to toast the dead man. Immediately after drinking their dedicated shot the two men fall over in near death. They are rushed to the hospital where they nearly die from cocaine poisoning. As it turns out, the bottle of "RUM" turned out to be LIQUID COCAINE.

After testing, it is discovered that the bottle contains almost 9oz. of cocaine dissolved into the RUM. Prosecutors quickly realize that the cab driver's death a year ago was also caused by drinking the "RUM". There is no way to prove that anyone knew of the cocaine or whom is responsible for it being dissolved into the RUM.

Coruba Dark and Spiced RUM

2010-03-19T09:17:00.000-04:00

I ran by my local liquor warehouse last night looking for the Margaritaville RUM but they are not yet stocking it. I did make a couple of discoveries however. My best guess is that they were selling a few "sample" bottles of RUM they had in the back so I was able to pick up a bottle of Coruba Dark, Coruba Spiced and Horne Spiced RUM.

At $9.99/each, I thought it was a really good haul. I look forward to taste-testing these three soon. I need to go by again tonight to see if they still have the two "Rum Jumbie" bottles (Pineapple & Mango) that were also marked down. I don't know why I didn't grab those yesterday too?

Margaritaville RUM website updated

2010-03-18T09:36:00.001-04:00

After nearly two years of rumors and an empty website, Margaritaville RUM has finally launched their website. While still minimal in content, they have added RUM descriptions, a few recipes and a distributor list.

Their RUM line consists of Dark, Silver, Spiced and Coconut. I promise to taste test them as soon as they become available in my area. I certainly hope they are better than the Margaritaville Tequila.

Bacardi launches new "Rum History" videos

2010-03-03T09:23:00.000-05:00

Bacardi has launched a new web campaign called Bacardi Rum and Family. Set as a series of video vinneats that explain Bacardi's Cuban history and the history of classic cocktails inspired by their RUM (Daiquiri, Mojito, Cuba Libre).

All of the videos are quite short, most around 30 seconds, but are done fairly well. My favorites are the one's that kitchily recreate the past "Prohibition", "The Original Daiquiri" and "The Cocktail Revolution". They don't make me want to run out and drink Bacardi RUMs but they are something different.

Unfortunetly, the videos leave the viewer with the impression that Bacardi is still distilled in Cuba with no mention of their move to Puerto Rico.

Cuban Special #2

2010-03-01T10:59:00.000-05:00

Late last night while watching a moview I paused long enough to make a “Cuban Special #2” from Trader Vic’s 1947 Bartender’s Guide. It was pretty good. It had:

1.5 oz. Puerto Rican Rum (Bacardi Gold)
.5 tsp Grenadine (Fee Brothers)
.5 tsp Cherry syrup (my substitution for Maraschino Liqueur)
2 drops lemon juice
1 dash orange bitters (Regan's Orange Bitters #5)

Shaken over ice and strained. Not bad.

Caribbean RUM wars continue

2010-02-26T10:10:00.000-05:00

Puerto Rico Must Open Books on Secret Rum Subsidies, Says Letter From Black Chamber of Commerce to Gov. Fortuno
- Governor Must Address Rumored Puerto Rico Payments to Rum Companies by Releasing Contracts, Financial Information

Alleged Hidden Payments Mislead Citizens and Lawmakers; Payments from General Fund Exceed Self-Imposed Cap

WASHINGTON, Feb. 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In a letter to Puerto Rico Governor Luis Fortuno, National Black Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Harry Alford today called upon him to disclose his territory's direct and indirect payments and subsidies to its rum companies....

http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/puerto-rico-must-open-books-on-secret-rum-subsidies-says-letter-from-black-chamber-of-commerce-to-gov-fortuno-85248882.html

Admiral Nelson Premium Spiced RUM

2010-02-15T14:42:00.001-05:00

Shopping for RUM, or any spirit, is the same as ordering a drink in a bar...lower on the shelf, typically means lower the quality. When I bought my bottle of Admiral Nelson's Premium Spiced RUM, I found it on the bottom shelf at the very end of the RUM aisle. Not a good sign for any distiller but a preview of what to expect from this RUM.

I won't spend long on this RUM because it is simply not worth it. It has a light tea color, smells like of mixture of chemical, leather, light vanilla and oak.

Drinking this straight was not a good idea. The initial chemical flavor lead to a slight burn and left me with the slightest spiced vanilla flavor. Adding ice removed the burn but seemed to enhance the "skunky" flavor. Adding Coke Zero did kill the chemical taste but it somehow managed to remove all of the Coke taste too.

Generously, I give it a 2 of 10. This "spiced rum" made me long for Captain Morgan's...never a good sign.

NOTE: I have decided to re-taste Admiral Nelson's because this tasting was done off the last drops of my bottle; not the first. I am concerned that the age of the opened spirit might have effected my review. So, I will be retasting this Spiced RUM in the near future.

Folly Cove RUM

2010-02-15T14:34:00.000-05:00

I just read an interesting article about a new, small-batch RUM producer in Glouchester, MA...Folly Cove RUM.

"Produced from molasses, Folly Cove is fermented and distilled in Ryan and Wood’s alembic custom copper pot still. Once distilled, the rum ages in white oak barrels which adds a distinctive flavor. The rum is then bottled and labeled by hand.

The still, or the component that actually distills the rum, was custom built in Germany and its style has been appreciated for hundreds of years by manufacturers interested in hand crafted or small batch products."
- North Shore

Follow up to RUM bars - La Descarga (Los Angeles)

2010-02-05T09:44:00.000-05:00

The LA Times blog covered the opening of La Descarga, a new RUM bar in Los Angeles. Sounds like the opening was to be appreciated...just look at the title "Opening night at La Descarga: Rum, rum and more rum"

Rum war threatens the Carribbean

2010-02-05T09:23:00.000-05:00

I found this article quite interesting. The US Virgin Islands have used $2.4 billion in direct subsidies and other incentives to convince Diageo, LLC (Captain Morgan) to move production from Puerto Rico to USVI. USVI also firmed up their relations with USVI-based Fortune Brands (Cruzan) convincing them to stay in USVI long-term. Needless to say, Puerto Rico is not very happy with this turn of events.

The quote that jumped out at me. "The Puerto Rican delegate said that the Virgin Island’s subsidies are so large that, in the case of Diageo, the rum producer could manufacture a gallon of rum free of cost." Diageo is the 2nd largest RUM distiller in the world and now it can manufacture its RUM for FREE! Yikes!

The article gets kinda complicated from there but it's still worth the read.

Rum Bars

2010-01-22T01:02:00.000-05:00

Here in South Carolina, the closest thing to a RUM bar that we've got would be Voodoo Tiki Bar in Charleston, SC. However, more and more RUM bars seem to be popping up around the rest of the country. I thought I would take a second to mention some of the great RUM bars out there.

I have been to Pat Croce's RUM Barrel, in Key West, FL. With Johnny Depp proportedly being a part-owner, this RUM bar is themed completely in Pirate's of the Caribbean. Ask to see the 120+ RUM book to choose your spirit or flight. Lastly, checkout the Pirate Soul Museum next door.

Cuba Libre is about to open their fourth RUM bar, this one in Washington, DC. You can also find them in Philadelphia, Atlantic City, and Orlando. Themed like Old Havana throughout, this RUM bar is a cultural party every day. Be sure to try their own "Cuba Libre" brand RUMs, distilled by Demerara Distillers.

Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grill on Sanibel Island, FL is another fun RUM bar that I've visited. Owned by author Randy Wayne White, the place is named after MARION "DOC" FORD, who is the hero and main character in several of White's best-selling novels. Huh, it looks like they've also opened a new location on Ft. Myer's Beach, FL too.

RUM Bar in Philadelphia looks to be a great spot to bring out the pirate in you. Their RUM list is extensive (200+) and they run nightly specials.

Other RUM bars I found:

Smuggler's Cove (San Francisco, CA)
Woody's Rum Bar and Island Grill (Baltimore, MD)
Mojitos Restaurant and Rum Bar (Los Angeles, CA)
The Volcano Room & Rum Bar at Bottom Lounge (Chicago, IL)
Rum Bar at Panama Hattie's (North Palm Beach, FL)
Cruzan RUM bar (North Palm Beach, FL)

Ron Cubaney Anejo Reserva 5yr.

2010-01-14T11:57:00.001-05:00

I actually bought this RUM a couple of years ago while in Key West, FL. I've held onto the last two drinks of this one longer than I should have, much to the shagrin of Mrs. The Rum Trader.

There are a number of things I love about this RUM: The bottle is tall and thin, they've included a "bottled" date, the RUM has a nice amber color and the label shows a turn-of-the-century photo of Cuba.

Like I mentioned above, this RUM has a nice shaded, amber tone with fairly nice legs. Pouring into my glass I notice the RUM has a nice smokey, slightly sugary aroma with no noticable alcohol smell; which is nice for a relatively young, five-year-old RUM. I also detected notes of toffee, orange cream and a light vanilla.

Without ice: This was a nice sipper. With a slight burn, you'll immediately notice the smokey, oakey, peppery notes. Yum! The finish is uniquely good with a slight citrus taste mixed with a mossy burberry hint. With ice: The burn disappears and the smokey, peppery flavor takes over nearly completely. Good!

With Coke Zero: I really enjoyed this RUM with Coke. I wrote down "silky smooth" and that about captures it. I taste the smoked barrel, the pepper, the carmel, the spice, etc. The linger here is most enjoyable with a mixture of carmel, toffee and herbal spice. Delectable: 8.5 of 10

Margaritaville RUMs coming soon! Finally!?!?

2010-01-04T14:49:00.000-05:00

The Margaritaville RUM site has added additional details and descriptions concerning their RUM line to their website. Originally they had announced a launch date of Summer 2009 but until now we've heard nothing. I look forward to trying their four types: Dark, Silver, Spiced and Coconut. My expectations are very low based on the abhorent taste of the Margaritaville Tequila so I hope to find myself at least some what surprised by one of the flavors.

Bermudez Don Armando (Ron Anejo 10 Anos)

2010-01-04T13:52:00.001-05:00

This is a fun RUM that my bestest friend Dee Sanders brought back from Dominican Republic for me about a year ago. I'm not sure if you can get any of the Bermudez RUM line in the USA; if you cannot then that is a real shame. The only information online I found for its distribution in the USA was over a year old and the distributor listed has closed its website.

This Bermudez Don Armando RUM was good but not great. I'll admit to having higher expectations for a 10-year-old RUM. It has a slightly spicey and smokey aroma but it also holds a fairly strong alcohol smell that came with those first sniffs; surprising for an aged RUM. I also noticed hints of carmel apple and a near Scotch smell.

My 2nd surprise from this aged RUM was that its not very good at room temerature. It only improved once I put it over ice and then again over Coke Zero.

At room temerature, Don Armando has a nice iced-tea color and has no noticable legs. The first sip starts with a light alcohol burn which is followed by an even strong burn. I was glad to taste that subsequent sips found the burn to be less noticable and the carmel, cinnemon and citrus flavor to be more noticeble. With a couple of ice cubes mixed in the true flavor of this RUM was finally unearthed. Here's where the Scotch flavor returned again with a stronger carmel but true Autumn leaf flavor on show. While of much lesser notes, I also caught waves of a spicy orange flavor which made for a very nice finish.

My last tasting found me pouring a couple of ounces of Don Armando over about four ounces of Coke Zero on ice. While I found this mixture appealing from its balanced sweetness and slightly dry flavor, I now could no long distiguish the RUM from the mixture and was only able to slightly detect the aromatic remnants of light moss. A middle of the road RUM; I give it 6 of 10.

Seven Tiki Spiced RUM

2009-12-03T13:51:00.000-05:00

Here's another RUM that caught my eye. I am big into all things TIKI so a RUM with tiki in it's name is a must try. This is a 70 proof Spiced RUM but from what I've read there is a Dark and Silver RUM available too. Their literature says that it's made in Fiki but there seems to be some doubt to that claim. According to Edward Hamilton at Ministry Of RUM, it "is produced at the South Pacific Distillery in Fiji, a small distillery adjacent to the major Fiji Sugar Corp. sugar mill, which is near Lautoka city on the North West Coast of the main Fijian island of Viti Levu." It's raw material is "Sugar cane molasses from high-quality Fijian sugar cane, which has been growing in Fiji for thousands of years. It is produced on a continuous still. The continuous still gets its steam from a wood fired boiler." Yes, it actually is blended and ages in Fiji but bottled in France (for Europe) and the United States. It's primary uniqueness is that they use pure water from Fiji and sun-baked Indonesian nutmeg and Madagascar vanilla beans. It is certainly the only South Pacific RUM I've ever heard about. Seven Tiki Spiced RUM is part of the Bacardi Globe Brand line-up and is currently only available in California and Florida. I think I can order it online. Huh, maybe I am do another Christmas gift!

Horne Rum

2009-12-03T13:44:00.000-05:00

I haven't tried Horne RUM yet but the website caught my eye enough to write the address down. It's an 88 proof Spiced RUM. I like it's dark color and it's Hurrican flag label. It says its a US Virgin Island blend of RUMs. I'll be on the lookout for a sampling.

Bacardi Select RUM Tasting

2009-12-02T21:13:00.000-05:00

Bacardi Select RUM is 80 proof (40% alcohol). It has a dark carmel appearance with medium legs. In the bottle, this RUM has a pleasant, mossy, carmel, smokey aroma. The smell has a light detection of alcohol and is a bit fruity (hints of orange).

Over Ice: Bacardi Select blends in a smokey, mossy, almost burnt aroma. Unfortunetly the alcohol smell increases dramatically. Taste straight over ice produces a great deal of alcohol burn which is quite harsh. However, I did notice a mix of carmel and fruit after taste once the burn subsided. But let me be clear, the burn is hot and thus not good.

With Coke Zero: Sweet and tasty. This is how to drink Bacardi Select RUM! This mix definetly enhances the carmel flavor and adds to the sweetness of the Coke Zero. Really, it is almost like they distilled this RUM specifically to make Cuba Libre with it. I like this much more than over ice.

Final score: 6.5 out of 10

Gosling's Black Seal Bermuda Black RUM

2009-10-06T01:34:00.000-04:00

I'm trying to clean out some RUM remnants now that I've accumulated 60+ RUMs. Today's offering is Gosling's Black Seal Bermuda RUM (80 proof).

I must admit that I liked this RUM more than I thought I would on first approach. Having already tasted, and not enjoyed, Cruzan's Black Strap RUM I was affraid that this extremely dark RUM would taste equally as bad.

I found myself surprisingly mistaken. Black Seal is a dark RUM with a slight orange/red hew. It carries a unique smokey/sweet molasas fragrance with sound legs.

My "on ice" taste test showed semi-spicey, butter scotch/carmel candy sweetness. I thoroughly enjoyed the smokey, molasas linger and instantly gave it atleast 8 of 10.

My "Coke Zero" taste test unfortunetly did not go quite as well. The sweetness of the coke overloaded the instilled sweetness and washed away nearly all of this RUMs unique appeal. All that remained was an overly sweet, somewhat spicy drink which I no longer wanted to finish (all though I did; waste not, want not).

On final vote I would say this is an 8.5 of 10. I especially like the numerous "Dark n Stormy" drinks I pulled from this bottle prior to this test. I want to also shout out to my bestest friend Dee Sanders for lovingly bringing this bottle back from Bermuda to me. It almost makes up for the bottle of Blackbeard's Gold RUM for me that she left in the Cayman Islands. Love ya' Dee.

Margaritaville RUM "Ready To Drink" Classic Mojito

2009-09-18T14:25:00.000-04:00

I apologize for the lousy picture quality. I snapped this on my last day of drinking this mix and was hoping to find a better photo online (no such luck).

Just a quick review of the first RUM product from Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville Spirits line. The "Classic Mojito" is part of a larger "Ready To Drink" product line which includes a number of flavored margarita pre-mixed beverages. Margaritaville Spirits has promised a full line of Margaritaville RUMs including Dark, Silver, Coconut, and Spiced RUM. The website has bottle photos and an announced street date of "Summer 2009".

First I must admit that I typically HATE this type of pre-mixed spirit. They typically are too sweet and carry a heavy syrup taste. Well, that description applies to thie product too.

To it's defense, the Mojito mix isn't quite as bad as the Margaritaville "Ready To Drink" margarita drinks. This drink carries a heavily sweetened lime/mint taste and it has a overt syrupy thickness.

Drinking it straight is nearly impossible. I found that I could improve it's drinkability by cutting it with club soda and splashing in some fresh lime juice. It does have a fairly nice nose of mint and lime but the strong, sugary-sweet smell is a major drawback. It's light, lime green color also reminds me of their afore mentioned pre-mixed lime margaritas.

Pre-mixed lime & mint flavor can never replace freshly muddled lime/mint. In the end, this beverage is simply not worth the time or the money. The mix is only 30 proof and once you add the extra club soda/lime juice waters this gets watered down to nothing worth drinking. I give it a 3 of 10.

Happy 50th Anniversary Hawaii

2009-08-21T09:36:00.000-04:00

On August 21, 1959, President Dwight Eisenhower signed an executive order proclaiming Hawaii the 50th state of the union.

Happy 50th Anniversary Hawaii! I hope to visit you one day soon.

Imbibe!!

2009-08-13T17:22:00.001-04:00

Learned about this book from The Colbert Report. David Wondrich's "Imbibe!: From Absinthe Cocktail to Whiskey Smash, a Salute in Stories and Drinks to "Professor" Jerry Thomas, Pioneer of the American Bar". Looks like a good read.

"This book will leave you shaken and, I hope, stirred. Wondrich, one of the top spirits writers in the country, delves into the rich and fascinating history of mixology in America."
--USA Today

MOJITOS!!!!!!!!

2009-07-04T02:14:00.001-04:00

Mixed up a number of tasty Mojitos tonight with friends over to swim, eat and drink. Two problems though:

1. My limes were aged so their juice was slightly bitter. No problems though I simply tossed in some extra mint and some sweet lime juice and vola', no more lime problems.

2. No soda water. AARRGGHH! I had to use plain tap water. The first few drinks weren't the best but after 2-3 I didn't even notice.

The funnest part of tonight's mojitos...using my Bob Chinn's Crabhouse Mai Tai Tiki Mug.

Fish House Punch

2009-07-01T15:53:00.000-04:00

Now this looks like a tasty creation. Apparently it was a favorite of George Washington. Way to rock the RUM, George. Wow, this one takes an ENTIRE BOTTLE of RUM. Now that's some fun drinking. If I have a chance, I might stir some of this up over the July 4th weekend!

I didn't discover this recipe on my own. The Forbidden Island Tiki Bar in Alameda, CA sent out their weekly email and mentioned this one.

Fish House Punch Ingredients:

1 cup sugar
3 1/2 cups water
1 1/2 cups fresh lemon juice (6 to 8 lemons), strained
1 (750-ml) bottle Jamaican amber RUM
12 oz Cognac (1 1/2 cups)
2 oz Peach Brandy (1/4 cup)
Garnish: lemon slices

Tommy Bahama White Sand

2009-06-22T01:52:00.000-04:00

I don't like to sip many white/silver/clear rums but the Tommy Bahama White Sands RUM is pretty good. It's sweet, smells a bit like suntan lotion and generally reminds you of its name (ie. the beach). It has a slight burn on entry and a sweet but light coconut flavor with a hint of charcoal left on the palate. While I wouldn't drink it straight very often it makes for a fine mixing RUM in either a Mojito, a Cuba Libre or a full mixed drink like a Zombie.

Pirates For Jesus!

2009-05-22T02:26:00.000-04:00

This might be the greatest album cover of ALL TIME. I simply lose my breath when gazing upon its greatness. The costumes, the netting, the scary children, the even scarrier ventriloquist dummy. Alas, it's not mine...no, I do not own this treasure. I found it on another blog. I guess I will have to continue my quest to attain a copy of this wonder for myself.

Rum Renaissance Results

2009-05-20T13:05:00.000-04:00

The results from Rum Renaissance RUM competition are in and "Ministry Of Rum" has posted the medal listings. I am quite surprised at a few of the results including the sheer number of Gold medals issued. I know that there isn't a limit on Gold medals but come on, everything cannot be the best. The reason you have Gold, Silver, Bronze is to distinguish the best of the bunch. Not everything deserves a medal. According to "Ministry of Rum" 44 of 65 RUMs, or 68% of them, received Gold medals. That's simply too many earning Gold.

Some of the "head scratchers" that I noticed included Bacardi Gold received a Bronze medal. How on earth did this win ANY medal? I cannot help but think this was done because Bacardi was a primary sponsor. I also cannot believe that Don Q Cristal got a medal, let along a Silver medal! This stuff is PURE swill. It's not even good enough to be a mixing RUM.

There are a number of medals I agreed on including Gold medals to Tommy Bahama White Sand, Flora de Cana 4yr. Gold, Mt. Gay Extra Old, Cruzan Single Barrel, Cubaney 8 Años Solera Reserva, and Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva. There are a number of RUMs listed that I've never tried and some I've never heard of. Of these, a couple really peaked my interest including Admiral Rodney (from St. Lucia), Opthimus 25 Años Summa Cum Laude and Batiste Rhum Blanc (St. Barts).

So check-out the results here and review the list yourself.

Carmen Miranda, Busby Berkeley & Esther Williams

2009-05-20T11:40:00.001-04:00

So I have been on a Carmen Miranda kick lately. I watched "That Night In Rio" Sunday night and today Netflix sent me the 1943, Busby Berkeley directed musical "The Gangs All Here". TGAH bonus features include a special documentary on Berkeley and his use of dancers, props, choreography, etc. on a MASSIVE scale (see the "The Lady in the Tutti Frutti Hat" shot below). The documentary prompted me to seek out other Berkeley movies which led me to Esther Williams..."The Million Dollar Mermaid." While reading more on Williams, I came across this postcard from a Williams movie set built in Cypress Gardens, FL. I thought the image was so cool, I just had to post it. That's Esther holding the skis up front.

Gifted Rums

2009-05-18T13:28:00.000-04:00

A friend of mine at Southern Wine & Spirits emailed me an article covering the Rum Renaissance weekend in Miami this past weekend. Over 100 RUMs were available for tasting and it looked like a wonderful weekend. Check out the link above for more information.

The article also included a link to the Rum Tasting organizer's website so I thought I would share it here. Robert Burr, father and son, write for the site sharing lots of great information covering the wonderful world of RUM. You should checkout GiftedRums.com if you have a chance.

Vinyl Kings!

2009-05-18T01:02:00.000-04:00

I just saw a short documentary on Paul Mawhinney and his amazing record collection. Over 1 million albums, 1 million singles and 6+ million songs. Paul's nearly 70 and can no longer care for the collection so it is for sale. As of yet, no one had stepped up to aquire the collection who's value has been placed around $50 million but is being sold for $3 million.

Here's the short documentary.

Here's Paul's homepage.

P.S. I had to add this interview also. I don't know who this guy is but he's very odd and a bit creepy. Collecting every record ever made...yikes, you might as well shoot yourself in the head...ain't gonna happen.

P.S.S. I could do this all night long but this clip had to be posted. This is EXACTLY how most vinyl guys are.

Martin Denny's "Quiet Village"

2009-05-15T08:41:00.003-04:00

Exotica music consists of a mixture of light jazz, Hawaiian music, percussion, jungle calls, etc. Martin Denny, along with Les Baxter and Arthur Lyman, are considered the Kings of Exotica music. I found this clip last night of Denny's band performing "Quiet Village" on Webley Edward's "Hawaii Calls" program. "Quiet Village" was the biggest Exotica hit ever produced. Watching this clip gives you an understanding of the Exotica sound.

"Fetch me a Mai Tai, Ping Pong."

2009-05-11T10:32:00.000-04:00

Following our trip to Memphis, which included visiting Elvis Presley's Graceland, we had to watch at least one Elvis movie. We chose "Blue Hawaii" this weekend and had a blast watching it. Watching movie's in the Media Room is quite an experience. With the 111" screen and the extra space, my son got to dance with Elvis on "Slicin' Sand"; very cool. Mrs. TheRumTrader and I had a good laugh thinking about how many cast members Elvis muse have slept with during shooting. Plus, we picked up our newest, bestest catch phrase from Angela Landsbury's Southern character..."Fetch me a Mai Tai, Ping Pong."

Voodoo Tiki Bar & Lounge (Charleston, SC)

2009-05-07T16:59:00.000-04:00

I just found out that my old home town of Charleston, SC has its very own Tiki Bar and Lounge. I am shocked to see one in South Carolina. They have $3 Mai-Tais during Happy Hour, Volcano Bowls, Scorpion Bowls, Donkey Punch, Suffering Bastards, etc. Now they just need a Zombie and they'll be complete. It looks like they use standard well brands for most drinks (to keep cost in check I assume). For RUMs they mention using Myers Dark, Goslings Dark, Malibu and Mt. Gay. It is my hope that their well brand RUMs are not BACARDI. It's also nice to see that they have Non-RUM Tiki drinks too. I know GASP!! The Rum Trader says its okay to drink something OTHER than RUM! No, I realize that some (very unsophisticated) people prefer something other than RUM...poor souls! This Bar is a definite "check it out" stop on our next visit "home". Mrs. The Rum Trader even asked if I'd like to celebrate our 12th Anniversary @ Voodoo. Wow, now that would be cool!

Voodoo Tiki Bar & Lounge

RUM Collection 4/18/09

2009-05-07T16:47:00.000-04:00

In spite of my wife's eye rolling, I thought I'd pull out my RUM collection, count its number and take a photo. On 4/18/09 I had 43 different RUMs not including a large collection of mini-bottles. Plus, after I took my photos I found a few extra bottles that made the count but not the photo. I know, that's ridiculous but to my defense a number of the bottles are nearly empty. I counted 15 that we're near the end of their lives. I need to kill a few over the long weekend!

Pittsburgh, PA - RUM Finds

2009-05-06T11:17:00.001-04:00

The family traveled to Pittsburgh, PA for Easter again this year. It's our third Easter with our best friends The Lizottes. They actually live in Murraysville, East of Pittsburgh so we hit some local Spirit stores to see what we could find.

Buying RUM in PA is like shopping in no other place. The state (PLCB - Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board) controls EVERYTHING. What's sold, the stores it's sold in, etc. They maintain and publish an "official list" of spirits, wines, etc. available in PA online here. You can only buy what they authorize; that's it. Their monopoly is interesting to read about (from Wiki-Pedia):

The PLCB holds monopolist rights to the distribution of all wines and hard liquor in the commonwealth. To this end, the agency owns and operates Wine & Spirits retail locations, commonly referred to as "state stores," in all 67 counties. This government corporation is the largest purchaser of wine and liquor in the United States and second in the world after the Liquor Control Board of Ontario.

This monolithic control SEVERELY limits the brands stocked within the state and greatly favors large RUM distilleries like Bacardi and Cruzan. So, what I found on our outings was of very little variance between stores.

Special RUMs I did buy: Ron Rico Pineapple/Coconut Rum, Strohs "80" (160 proof)

Special RUMs I didn't buy: Sea Wynde

Memphis, TN - Rum Finds

2009-05-06T10:52:00.000-04:00

The family has been traveling a lot lately and we just got back Sunday from Memphis, TN. My good friend, Dee Sanders, took me to Memphis' largest liquor store (Buster's) for a RUM trip.

"I could spend $1000 here in 5 minutes!" I excitedly exclaimed when I hit the RUM isle. They had so many RUMs that I wanted; I didn't know where to start.

Special RUMs I did buy: Trader Vic's Gold (1.75l), Lemon Hart 151, Starr African Rum (only $20), Angostura Gold 5 Year, Angostura Dark 5 Year, Goslings Gold (375l).

Special RUMs I didn't buy: Angostura 1824, El Dorado 12 & 21 Year, Planter's RUM (all brands), Prichard's RUM (all brands), Oronoco (1.75l), Red Rum, Sea Wynde, Trader Vic's Silver.

UPDATE: I meant to buy the Lemon Hart 80 proof instead of the 151 so I emailed my good friend Dee Sanders and asked if she could bring me a bottle on her visit to Columbia this week; she said yes! WooHoo!

Update

2009-05-06T10:49:00.000-04:00

I've been slack about posting on this blog about my obsession with Rum so I'll try to make up for it in the coming months by posting about my Rum finds and tastings. I'd like to keep a tally of all Rums tried with tasting notes. I'd also like to do some head-to-head tastings by category (i.e. Spiced, Coconut, Demerara, sugar cane, over-proof, etc.). We'll see how things go.

The Rum Trader

2008-08-27T15:01:00.000-04:00

So, this blog will focus on my RUM obsession and all of the fun things that surround RUM including TIKI, travel, 50s & 60s culture, Exotica, lounge music, etc. So on with the fun