National Rum Day in the USA
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Rum is the third most popular spirit worldwide after vodka and whiskey and the base for many refreshing, tropical cocktails. No wonder Americans celebrate National Rum Day every year on August 16 - right in the middle of the hottest time of summer.
The History of Rum
Rum has been produced on the Caribbean islands since the 17th century. At that time, the West Indies were the center of sugar production. A byproduct was molasses, which initially had no use. Slaves on the plantations discovered that rum could be distilled from it.
In the 18th century, rum became an important export commodity of the Caribbean. The sugarcane spirit was also very popular with sailors and pirates. Until 1970, a daily ration of rum was part of the standard provisions for British sailors.
Types of Rum and Famous Cocktails
Today, there are numerous types of rum, such as white, gold, dark, flavored, and overproof rum. Each Caribbean island has its own style. Jamaica and Haiti are known for dark, heavy rums, while Guadeloupe and Martinique produce light rhum agricoles.
Rum is the base of many tiki cocktails like Mai Tai, Zombie, or Painkiller, which were made popular by the bartender Don the Beachcomber. Other rum classics include Daiquiri, Cuba Libre, and Piña Colada.
Celebrate Like Pirates
National Rum Day has been celebrated in the USA since 2009. It's the perfect opportunity to mix some delicious rum drinks with the crew - or even a whole bowl of Planter's Punch.
