Monday, five thirty: this Caymanian rum is aged underwater
By wakeandwander From Jaunted
In celebration of the most needed happy hour of the week, we’re launching a new column called “Monday, Five Thirty” that will take a look at different vices from around the world, specifically boozes and beers unique to a destination. Last week, it was Killepitsch in Dusseldorf, and now, we head to Grand Cayman to try out some of the local rum, Seven Fathoms, which is aged underwater.
Rum that hails from the Caribbean is far from breaking news, but we feature this particular brand for the unique way in which it is aged – seven fathoms, or 42 feet, under the sea off the coast of Grand Cayman. The idea definitely sounds a bit wacky on the surface, but once you dive in, it seems to make sense in theory.
In traditional production runs, rum is distilled and then placed in a barrel to age. The barrel is typically rotated throughout the process to ensure the rum ages evenly and to help round out disparities caused by fluctuations in temperature and inconsistent barrel quality. Seven Fathoms’ concept of underwater aging takes out the need for this rotation, allowing the currents of the sea and the tides to “massage” the rum within the barrel. Wineries have been doing this for some time with success, and, according to Luis Ayala, Author and Rum Consultant, the effects have also been found in booze that is shipped long distances in barrels due to the constant movement it experiences during the ride.
Although it is unlikely you would be able to tell the difference between a sea-aged rum and one that has undergone careful attention from a distiller on dry land, we love the technique and guts that comes along with the production of Seven Fathoms. It tastes good, without question, very flavorful yet smooth and easy-going for a dark rum.
Considering the process and patience that goes along with finding the right spot underwater in terms of humidity, temperature, and current strength, the price tag actually isn’t that unreasonable at $60 for a 750ml bottle. If you’re interested in a taste but have no plans to visit the Cayman Islands, you can buy it online at: http://www.binnys.com/spirits/Seven_Fathoms_Cayman_Islands_Premium_Rum_173621.htm
[Photo: Seven Fathoms]
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