Company:
The Rum Experience
Job:
The Global Ambassador of Rum
Website:
rumfest.co.uk
How long have you been working in the rum industry?
I have been working in the industry for about 20 years. I
started off working as a bartender, then as the UK’s first Rum brand ambassador
and then as the World’s first global rum ambassador.
What has been your biggest career highlight to date?
Creating the UK Rum Fest, the world’s first international Rum festival in London back in 2007. Before then, there were no rum events that attracted brands, aficionados, blenders and distillers to educate rum lovers through tastings, masterclasses and seminars. This October we will be hosting our 11th annual event.
Can you remember your first rum, and indeed what it was?
I can’t remember my first rum as I was four days old, but I’m told by mum that it was a 63% ABV Wray & Nephew Overproof rum. My mum is from Jamaica!
What does rum mean to you?
To me it’s more than a spirit, it’s a way of life!
Where would you like to see yourself in five years’ time?
Five year's wiser than I am today.
What was your last rum?
I can’t remember as it was a very good night. But it was probably aged for several years and drunk neat.
Do you have a favourite rum and food pairing combination?
Rum and chocolate is a great combination, but I especially love rum and cold dry meats such as chorizo, ham, smoked beef and salami.
What’s your favourite rum based cocktail?
It’s hard to nail it down to one, but depending on my mood it would be either a Daiquiri, Rum Manhattan or Rum Old Fashioned.
What do you think is going to be the next big thing on the rum horizon?
True unadulterated premium rums. Especially from independent bottlers.
What’s the one rum you couldn’t live without?
The one in my glass, the next one or a FREE one!
Many thanks to Ian Burrell. Who will be our next Rum Insider? Click back soon to find out!