Tasting

A Mount Gay Eclipse is golden to light amber in color and usually smells of vanilla, ripe banana, and orange peel. On the palate it tastes soft, with a touch of caramel and a mild, lightly spiced finish. This is the type of rum many people try first when exploring Barbados rum, and it's a good way to get acquainted with the island's style. The oak note stays discreet, which is also why it works well for mixing, say in a simple highball with lime.

Anyone wanting to compare two rums might place a more mature St Nicholas Abbey alongside the Mount Gay example. The second shows what syrup and a small pot still can do with the same sugarcane: honey, roasted nuts, spice, more sweetness on the nose, and a longer, oily-soft finish. The differences are subtle, but clear when tasted side by side.

The right glass makes the comparison easier. A nosing glass or small tulip glass with a narrow opening gathers the aromas and lets them rise slowly. The rum should be at room temperature, around 18 to 20°C (64–68°F), so the aromas aren't muted. Nose it several times first, then take a small sip and hold it briefly in the mouth. When tasting several rums in a row, start with the lightest and finish with the most robust, rinsing your mouth with water in between.

Anyone tasting rum neat can add a few drops of water after the first impression. This softens the alcohol's sharpness and can open up certain aromas, especially in higher-proof bottlings. There's no right answer here, only differences in aroma and taste.