How to Store Rum
Rum is a type of liquor that is made by fermenting and distilling sugarcane molasses or sugarcane juice. Being an aged spirit, rum requires proper storage to maintain its rich and distinctive flavor. Good storage also ensures the longevity of the drink.
In this post, we’ll go through some essential tips on how to store rum.
Storage Tips for Rum
- Keep it in a dark environment: Light and heat are detrimental to the quality of the rum. Therefore, it is essential to store rum in a cool, dark environment away from direct sunlight. Sunlight breaks down the flavor and aroma of your aged spirit. Hence, rum should be kept in a cabinet, pantry, or cellar where the temperature is stable and lower than room temperature.
- Pay attention to humidity: Just like temperature and light, humidity affects the texture and taste of rum. High humidity levels can cause the cork to expand and break the seal, allowing air to enter the bottle. Air, in turn, oxidizes the rum and affects its quality. Therefore, store rum in a cool and dry area where humidity is low.
- Store the bottle upright: Storing the bottle upright is essential to prevent the cork from drying out or disintegrating over time. Never store rum bottles on their side. Doing so could cause the liquid to come in contact with the cork and get absorbed, which eventually impairs the quality of the drink as it ages.
- Avoid temperature fluctuations: Fluctuation in temperature can affect the quality of the rum and lead to spoilage. For instance, when rum is stored in a kitchen, it can go through temperature changes due to cooking. Therefore, avoid storing rum in the kitchen and areas close to the stove, heating pipe, or radiator. It would be best if you aimed to keep rum in a consistent temperature environment.
- Avoid storing rum in the freezer: Storing rum in the freezer may seem to be a good idea, especially if you want to keep it cool, but it is not recommended. The low temperature causes the rum to thicken, change in flavor and reduce the shelf life of the drink.
Conclusion
Storing rum is essential to maintaining its quality and taste. You must keep the rum bottle in a cool, dark, and dry place, away from sunlight, temperature fluctuations, and humidity. Storing rum upright and away from the kitchen and stove are also essential to prevent spoilage.
By following the tips we’ve outlined, you’ll be able to enjoy your aged rum for as long as possible.
