The Indian Ocean is famous for its rum distilleries, and their creations are more authentic and imaginative than ever before. Rum has a long history in the region, with sugarcane being cultivated in India for thousands of years and rum being distilled in Réunion and Mauritius for centuries. While the local rum industry is still relatively small, the quality is continuously improving, attracting attention from around the world.

At Grays in Mauritius, they not only grow their own sugarcane but also make their own molasses, which is rare in an industry that usually imports it. By doing so, they offer a true reflection of the Mauritian terroir. On the other hand, Réunion specializes in agricole rum, which is made straight from sugarcane juice instead of molasses. This type of rum is known for its grassy and herbal qualities, and producers like Isautier are experts in creating fresh-tasting rum from cane juice.

In the Seychelles, a new rum scene is emerging. Bernard and Richard d’Offay launched Takamaka, the country’s first modern distillery, in 2002, and they continue to shape the national drinks scene. They use heritage sugarcane varieties and former bourbon barrels for the aging process, attracting the attention of top bartenders and rum collectors.

Now, let’s explore some of the top rums from the Indian Ocean:

1. Takamaka Rum Blanc, Seychelles: This light, white rum from Takamaka is made from molasses distilled in both column and pot stills. It has a creamy and smooth texture with a character that makes it a perfect partner for various white rum cocktails.

2. Rhum Blanc Agricole, Réunion: Isautier, the oldest remaining distillery in Réunion, produces both agricole rums and molasses-based rums. This white bottling offers the full cane-to-glass experience, with fresh vanilla, almond, and citrus aromas.

3. New Grove Old Tradition 5 Years, Mauritius: This rum from Grays is made from its own molasses, produced from sugarcane grown on the Terra Estate. It is a full-bodied and opulently aromatic rum with rich flavors. Aging in new French oak and ex-cognac casks adds complexity, and it contains no additives, extra sugar, or coloring.

4. Rockland Dark Red Rum, Sri Lanka: Rockland Distillery, a family-owned business founded in 1924, specializes in arrack production but also creates this velvety rum. Bursting with dried fruit and dark chocolate notes, it offers a unique taste experience.

While the Indian Ocean may not have a globally famous rum cocktail like Cuba’s daiquiri or Puerto Rico’s piña colada, the region is known for infusing rum with fruit and spices and mixing it with fresh juices. One such example is a recipe from Grays distillery in Mauritius, featuring its molasses-based rum, New Grove. This cocktail is bursting with tropical fruit flavors and combines the best of the Indian Ocean’s rum scene.

To make the cocktail, you will need:

– 30ml New Grove Old Tradition 5 Years

– 30ml unaged sugarcane juice rum (agricole)

– 30ml pineapple juice (preferably fresh)

– 20ml fresh lime juice

– 15ml mango juice

– 15ml fresh passion fruit

– Pineapple wedge

– Pineapple leaves

– Sprinkle of toasted coconut chips to garnish

To prepare the cocktail, shake the rums, juices, and passion fruit with ice for 20 seconds. Then, pour the mixture into a highball glass filled with cracked ice. Garnish with a pineapple wedge, pineapple leaves, and toasted coconut chips to add an extra touch of tropical flair.

In conclusion, the Indian Ocean’s rum distilleries are gaining recognition for their authentic and innovative creations. Whether it’s Grays in Mauritius, Isautier in Réunion, or Takamaka in the Seychelles, the quality and craftsmanship of these rums are exceptional. So, if you ever find yourself in the Indian Ocean region, make sure to indulge in the rich and flavorful rums it has to offer. Cheers!