Alcohol Education: 5 Fun Facts About Rum You Probably Don't Know

Rum is one of the oldest and most popular drinks throughout history. With so much to learn about rum, here are 5 fun facts you probably don't know.

It's already well known that rum is one of the oldest and most versatile liquors in the world. Whether you are looking for something sweet, something spicy, or something well-aged, there is truly a rum for everyone.

Known for its history as the true sailor's companion, and journeying from warmer climates, it's no surprise that rum continues to reign as one of the most enjoyed drinks of all time.

But how much do you really know about this beloved beverage? With rum's unique heritage, there's a lot to be discovered. Keep reading to learn five fun facts about rum you probably didn't know.

1. Color Variations

You may have wondered why different types of rum vary so drastically in color. From completely clear to deep shades of molasses, the rum is aged and processed has everything to do with the results.

Clear and colorless rums have spent significantly less time aging and are often filtered through charcoal to produce that silver or transparent final product.

The longer a rum is aged, the deeper its amber tones will become. And to produce the darkest of varieties, the rum will be aged in a charred barrel or be made using caramelized molasses. 

2. The Original Spirit

You likely know already that rum has a long history, but did you know that is it, in fact, the oldest liquor in the world?

Dating back to 1650, rum was originally born in the West Indies. It was the very first alcohol ever produced and distributed for enjoyment and not for medical purposes. 

3. Rum Was A Type Of Currency

It's no wives tale that the sailors loved their rum. And in fact, in the 18th-century, rum was even used as a type of currency to pay them for their work.

But this quickly created problems, as workers would drink their wages instead of purchasing the things they needed.

4. Navy Rum

You may have heard the term Navy Rum before or seen it on your favorite bottle. This name also dates back to the 18th century, at a time when life on a ship was long and brutal.

The end of each day marked a time of celebrations and libations, as all sailors got to enjoy their favorite drink. This rum, later coined as Navy Rum, was made to have a 57% ABV so that if spilled, the ship's gunpowder would still ignite.

So next time you are enjoying your favorite Navy Rum, remember that it is quite literally gunpowder proof.

5. Rum's Many Names

Because of its age, you can imagine that rum has picked up quite a few nicknames along the way. A few of our favorites are Demon Water, Nelson's Blood, Painkiller, Kill-Devil, and Grog.

You may discover these names used today when looking at delicious rum cocktails, but they're also used to refer to rum itself.

Rum For Everyone

These fun facts about rum only scratch the surface of this golden drink's long history in the world. One thing that hasn't changed over the last few centuries is that rum is a friend to everyone and can be enjoyed in many different ways.