Rum: The Spirit of the Caribbean and the Age of Sail

In this episode of The Mixology – Spirit Vibes, Vince Brule explores Rum—one of the most influential, controversial, and culturally rich spirits in the world.Made from fermented sugarcane juice, molasses, or sugarcane byproducts, rum has deep roots in the Caribbean, the Americas, and other sugar-producing regions around the globe. From its origins in colonial trade to its strong ties with naval history and seafaring culture, rum carries a complex and powerful legacy.We break down its diverse styles—light, gold, dark, aged, and spiced—and how production methods, aging in oak barrels, and the addition of botanicals or caramel influence its flavor profile. The episode also touches on rum’s role in cocktails like the Mojito and Daiquiri, as well as its cultural identity across different regions and languages.From pirate tales to premium aged expressions, this episode reveals why rum is far more than just a tropical drink—it’s history in a glass.