What Is A Rum Blend: The Rum Blending Process Explained
Published November 2024 | Average reading time: 3-4 minutes
What Is A Rum Blend: The Rum Blending Process Explained
Rum blending is a sophisticated craft that involves combining different Rums to achieve a balanced and harmonious blend of flavours, aromas, and textures. This process enables blenders to create unique and complex profiles that cater to a variety of palates. At E&A Scheer, our Rum Blenders have honed the art of Rum blending for centuries, serving clients globally. We specialise in helping our clients transform intangible stories into a tangible liquid, one that is unique to them and their project. In this article, we will explain the intricacies of Rum blending, the different types of Rum, and what makes a Rum blend distinctive.
The basics of Rum blending
Rum blending requires the careful selection and combination of various Rums to create a final product that highlights the characteristics of its components. Master Blenders use their expertise to select and combine various types of Rum made from different raw materials (molasses/cane juice) and origins, sourced from different distilleries, to create a unique and desired flavour profile. This process may involve blending unaged Rums with aged Rums, unaged with unaged, or aged with aged, as well as a combination of pot still and column still based Rums.
Questionnaire: What is your Rum blend?
The types of Rum
A key aspect of Rum blending is understanding the various types of Rum. Rums can be classified in several ways, including age and colour. Here are some common types of Rum used in blending:
- Pot still Rum
- Column still Rum
- Rums of different ages
These categories represent general types of Rum used in blends. However, Rum blending is much more comprehensive than just colour, age and distillation method. Distinctions can also be made between Rums of different origins, such as Spanish-style and English-style Rum. These Rum types bring their own unique flavours into the mix, as well as being great storytelling tools for your product.
How to make a Rum blend
At E&A Scheer, Rum blending is an intricate art that aims to create a balanced and distinctive spirit that resonates with a brand's story and market ambitions. Similar to how a painter meticulously calibrates his palette, our Master Blenders carefully balance and layer flavours to achieve a harmonious blend that reflects our clients’ vision. Thus, to crafting the perfect Rum blend, we pay close attention to several key factors.
Rum profile
Deciding the flavour profile usually happens early on in creating Rum blends, as the character of the Rum will determine its appeal. At E&A Scheer, we help our clients determine their desired flavour profile. Profiles can include a heavy, full-bodied Rum rich in vanilla and oak flavours or a light, crisp Rum with delicate fruity notes—the possibilities are endless. If you want to create your personal Rum blend, it is worthwhile to decide whether you want a complex Rum with layers of flavour or a simpler, smoother blend.
Aged or unaged
After the flavour profile, the age of your Rum is often the next thing to look at. An older Rum will likely have deeper, more complex flavours, often with notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice from the oak barrels. A younger Rum, on the other hand, may come out fresher and lighter. Additionally, the age statement also plays a role in how the Rum can be marketed, whether on the bottle label or in promotional materials, making it a factor to keep in mind throughout the blending phase.
Origin
The origin of Rum plays a significant role in its flavour and marketability. Some regions, like the Caribbean or Central America, are known for specific Rum styles. At E&A Scheer, you can opt for a single-origin Rum that highlights the terroir of a particular region or create a blend from multiple origins. Consider the label claims you wish to make—whether highlighting a unique geographical origin or a blend that showcases the best of several regions.
Appearance
The colour of your Rum can influence consumer perception. Do you want a dark Rum with rich caramel hues, a golden Rum that suggests maturity, or a clear, unaged Rum that speaks to purity and freshness? Your choice will guide the selection of Rums.
Application
How do you intend for your Rum to be enjoyed? When blenders understand how the Rum will be used, they can make informed decisions about which Rum or specific components to select, ensuring the final blend aligns perfectly with its purpose. For cocktails, you might need a versatile Rum that complements a variety of mixers, while a Rum meant to be sipped neat may require a more refined and aged profile. If the Rum is for culinary or fragrance use, consider the specific flavour or aromatic qualities that are essential.
Market considerations
Where you plan to sell your Rum can influence the blending process. Different markets have different preferences; for example, some may favour sweeter Rums, while others prefer dry, complex spirits. Try to define in which markets you would like to sell and market the Rum. Our Rum blenders have experience in many markets, know which Rum works best where and can advise on suitable styles.
Price objective
More premium Rums normally allow for the inclusion of aged components, while budget-friendly Rums may require a different approach, focusing on affordability without sacrificing too much quality. Rums in the premium segment allow our blenders to incorporate different distillates into the blend. If the goal is to create a more budget-friendly Rum, we can help you achieve that by carefully working with more cost-effective Rums.
Volume projection
Providing details about the expected market, the number of cases to be produced, and the volume of litres needed helps our Master Blenders determine which distillates are suitable for the blend. This information ensures they select the right components to meet both production requirements and market expectations. Having information about volume also helps us ensure stability in supply for years to come.
Marketing buzzwords
Your Rum has the potential to tell an amazing story about its making. Whether it's rooted in tradition, innovation, or a unique ingredient, sharing this narrative with our blenders will help them create a Rum that embodies your brand’s ethos. Often times, blenders will also bounce back with interesting facts and stories about the Rum, further enriching your product’s story. Mentions of “craft,” “artisan,” “sustainable,” or the right buzzwords can make your Rum stand out in a crowded market.
Sustainability
Sustainability is increasingly important in today’s market. Our commitment to organic, Fair Trade, and Bonsucro certification means that we can help you create a Rum that aligns with socially responsible practices, such as certain certifications or standards. By prioritising sustainability, you not only contribute to a better world but also appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
Developing a customised Rum experience
Companies in the diverse world of Rum are keen on providing their consumers with unique and exclusive flavour profiles. Rum blending can be the secret ingredient that adds that extra special touch, distinguishing brands and leaving a lasting impression on consumers.
The art of Rum blending is a harmonious blend of science, expertise, and innovation. With a wealth of experience in Rum blending, spanning decades and a legacy of supplying Rum to business clients for centuries, E&A Scheer understands the significance of crafting blends that meet every specification and demand. Our mission is to assist businesses, whether startups or well-established enterprises, in crafting a blend that will resonate with their consumers
Are you looking to develop a unique Rum blend for your brand? We can help! We supply bulk Rum blends with consistent quality, time over time. Visit our Blending Tool to send in your desired flavour profile, or contact us for more information on how to get started.
Get started with the Blending Tool
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to mix Rum?
The best way to mix Rum depends on the desired flavour profile. Experiment with different combinations of Rums, mixers, and flavourings to find your perfect blend.
Does E&A Scheer provide samples of Rum blends?
Yes, during the collaboration, we provide samples from 100ml to 500ml free of charge so you can experience the process of Rum development at every step.
