Mount Gay Rum, the oldest operating distillery in the world, has a rich history that dates back to 1703. Barbados, where the distillery is located, was once known for its sugarcane production and, consequently, its rum. However, over time, the sugarcane industry on the island declined. By the 1970s, Mount Gay had sold off its sugarcane plantation, and Barbados’ sugar industry was almost non-existent.

Fast forward to 2014, when Mount Gay was acquired by Remy Cointreau. The distillery saw an opportunity to bring back the traditional practices of rum-making and highlight the unique terroir of Barbados. They acquired land next to the distillery for growing sugarcane and decided to create a special bottling called the Single Estate Series.

The goal of the Single Estate Series was to have complete control over the rum-making process, from sugarcane cultivation to bottling. This meant that Mount Gay had to learn how to become farmers in addition to being distillers and blenders. A team of employees was added to handle the farming and harvesting, with a sustainability manager overseeing the operations.

For the milling process, Mount Gay initially relied on the Portvale sugar factory, the only mill on the island. However, they later opened their own sugar mill in 2022. Instead of using traditional blackstrap molasses, the team at Mount Gay opted for higher quality Grade A molasses. They also requested specific specifications and cleaned the factory before milling to ensure that only Mount Gay’s sugarcane was used.

Barbadian sugarcane is unique due to the limestone soil found on the island. Unlike other islands in the Caribbean, Barbados has limestone soil, which influences the mineralogy of the sugarcane roots. The team at Mount Gay believes that this unique soil contributes to the distinct flavor profile of their rum.

The first release in the Single Estate Series, called the Single Estate Series 23_01, was a result of years of hard work and dedication to preserving traditional farming practices. It is a classic Barbados rum that showcases the terroir of the island and sets it apart from other expressions in the Mount Gay range.

Overall, the Single Estate Series represents a return to the roots of rum-making in Barbados and a celebration of Mount Gay’s long-standing history. It is a testament to the brand’s commitment to preserving tradition and creating high-quality rum that reflects the unique characteristics of its land.

A Unique Rum Experience: Mount Gay’s Single Estate Series

When it comes to rum, Mount Gay is a name that stands out. With a history that spans over three centuries, it is a brand that values tradition and quality. And their latest creation, the Single Estate Series, is no exception.

What sets this expression apart from the rest of Mount Gay’s range is not just the use of estate-grown sugarcane harvested in 2016 and 2017. There are several other factors that make it truly unique. According to Trudiann Branker, the master blender behind the Single Estate Series, one of the key differences lies in the fermentation process. Unlike the traditional three to four days used for fermentation, Branker extends it to a whopping nine days. This allows for a longer secondary fermentation, giving the rum a more complex flavor profile.

Another distinguishing feature of the Single Estate Series is the exclusive use of pot still distillation. While Mount Gay typically employs a mix of pot and column stills, this expression is 100% pot still. This method results in a more flavorful and nuanced final product.

After being aged for 5-6 years in ex-bourbon barrels at the estate, the rum is bottled at a bold 55% ABV, which is higher than the rest of Mount Gay’s permanent range. Branker explains that the choice of alcohol strength is crucial in expressing the essence of the blend. At 55% ABV, the unique flavor notes become more pronounced and discernible.

What makes the Single Estate Series even more special is the fact that it is additive-free and non-chill filtered. This means that the influence of the casks on the rum remains unadulterated, resulting in a pure and authentic taste.

But it’s not just the rum itself that stands out. Mount Gay has also taken great care in designing the packaging with the environment in mind. The bottle is made from 70% recycled glass, and the outer packaging is made of a single material for easier recycling. This commitment to sustainability is part of the brand’s dedication to ensuring a responsible future for the rum industry.

As for the taste, the Single Estate Series does not disappoint. Aromas of pear, oak, and honey waft out of the glass, enticing the senses. On the palate, flavors of burnt caramel and creamy vanilla give it a creme brulee-like richness. Ripe pear, banana, and peppery oak add depth and complexity, leading to a long, satisfying finish of oak and toffee.

Despite its high proof, the Single Estate Series is surprisingly smooth and quaffable even without the addition of water. It lacks the harsh alcoholic heat that can often mar high-ABV rums, making it a delight to sip and savor.

The Single Estate Series is a testament to Mount Gay’s commitment to excellence. With each yearly release, the rum will vary based on factors such as weather conditions and the selection of sugarcane varietals. This means that each edition will offer a unique and special experience for rum enthusiasts.

The first edition, 23_01, is limited to just 4,002 bottles worldwide, with only 1,200 available in the U.S. Priced at a suggested retail price of $400, it may be a challenging bottle to find at that price. However, for those lucky enough to get their hands on one, they will be rewarded with a QR code on the bottle that traces the fascinating journey of the rum from the sugarcane fields to the bottling plant.

To learn more about the Single Estate Series and immerse yourself in the world of Mount Gay, visit their website. And if you’re feeling lucky, embark on the hunt for this extraordinary rum. The Single Estate Series is a testament to the brand’s long-standing legacy and commitment to crafting exceptional spirits, ensuring that the next 320 years will be just as remarkable.