Notes on rum, tasting, and the craft behind the bottle.
March 1, 2026 · Tasting Notes
How to Actually Taste Rum
A short guide to tasting rum properly — no swirling required.
A short guide to tasting rum properly — no swirling required. Start by nosing the glass from a distance before bringing it closer; rum's alcohol content can overwhelm your nose if you dive in too fast. Take a small sip and let it coat your tongue before swallowing. Add a few drops of water if the rum feels closed off — it can open up notes of molasses and spice that neat pours hide. Most importantly, taste slowly. There's no prize for finishing first.
February 14, 2026 · Craft
Why Cask Type Matters
The barrel does more work than most drinkers realize.
The barrel does more work than most drinkers realize. Ex-bourbon casks tend to bring vanilla and caramel notes, while ex-sherry casks add dried fruit and spice. The age of the cask matters too — a barrel that's already been used several times imparts less flavor than a fresh one. That's part of why two whiskies made from the same spirit can taste completely different after maturation. The cask isn't just storage; it's an ingredient.
January 28, 2026 · Cocktails
Rum Cocktails Beyond the Old Fashioned
A few lesser-known ways to mix rum worth trying.
A few lesser-known ways to mix rum worth trying. A Dark 'n' Stormy pairs spiced or dark rum with ginger beer and a squeeze of lime for something sharp and refreshing. A Painkiller blends dark rum with pineapple, orange juice, and cream of coconut for a rich, tropical pour. And a classic Rum Old Fashioned — sugar, bitters, and a generous pour — is criminally underordered. Give one of these a try next time you're mixing at home.
