Molasses is usually recognized as a by-product of sugar production, but for Mount Gay, it’s the primary focus of their rum production. Master blender Trudiann Branker highlights the brand’s commitment to producing high-quality rum by prioritizing the quality of molasses over traditional sugar.

All rum is derived from sugarcane, and while most distilleries typically use molasses produced elsewhere, Mount Gay has taken a different approach. Since their founding in 1703, they are returning to their roots by cultivating sugarcane on their own estate and milling it at their sugar mill, focusing on the production of quality molasses. Their recent launch of the Single Estate rum series in 2023 exemplifies this method, using cane grown on their estate for more exceptional rum production.

The concept of terroir influencing molasses might seem novel to some, but Branker asserts that the distinct flavors from their estate are evident when tasting their molasses compared to others sourced from the Caribbean. Each batch produced demonstrates richness and complexity unique to Mount Gay.

Branker explains the differences between traditional sugar mills and theirs, noting that while most mills aim to create sugar, Mount Gay’s mill prioritizes the production of high-quality Grade A molasses. This ensures a cleaner and more flavorful base for rum-making.

They prioritize molasses that not only boasts a higher sugar content but also carries the characteristics of their estate’s terroir, helping to produce rum with more distinct flavors and aromas. Variety in sugarcane is crucial, and Mount Gay cultivates multiple cultivars to minimize the risk of crop loss and explore different flavors in their molasses.

The sugarcane grown at the Mount Gay estate, while developed through modern breeding techniques, includes varieties that are designed to be disease-resistant and high-yielding according to local agricultural needs. The estate prides itself on following best practices for sustainability, ensuring that varied cultivars are planted.

While their Single Estate rum showcases flavors derived exclusively from their estate, Mount Gay’s XO rum is a blend of various molasses and distillation methods, focusing on consistency and balance. Any sugar produced as a byproduct is sold to local sugar producers, further supporting the industry within Barbados.

For more details about Mount Gay and their offerings, you can visit their website.