It is an idea to ask the same ten questions to the organizers of the major international festivals in the world of rum.
This time the publication of the replies given by my friend Ian Burrell, founder of the Rum Experience in London (the first rum fest in Europe!) and global rum ambassador.
1- Ian which rums do you recall first when you began to consider drinking rum?
Wray & Nephew overproofed rum
2- Was there a particular rum brand that inspired you to love rum or learn more about this spirit?
Appleton Estate, as they were the first company to make me the UK’s first rum ambassador.
3- What are the three essential features that your RumFest should have?
Education, Entertainment & Energy
4- If you were in a desert island, what style of rum would you choose with you?
Jamaican
5- What future trends in rum will be successful and which producers are likely to be involved in the future success of rum?
Pure unadulterated rums from reputable blenders & distillers, and own labels that have little history but are marketed well.
6- How do you see the spirits industry evolving in the future?
We are seeing some spirits that are far superior in taste and production than their counterparts of yesteryear, but we are also seeing some companies that have no patience, and cut corners to achieve a superior spirit.
7- What is your prediction for the success or failure of Cachaça i the next five years?
If the Brazilian government decides to invest money in the promotion of Cachaca, especially artisanal, then it could grow rapidly around world in bars that serve cocktails, Whiskies and of course rum.
8- In a time of greater awareness of rum in the media and the public perception, how can your rum festival help rum enthusiasts to better understand and appreciate rum?
By constantly evolving, showcasing the industry in a positive light, and most important creating great educational programs to create more rum ambassadors. This is why I created the UK RumFest, the first internationally recognised rum festival back in 2007, to hope that one day rum festivals would be created around the world.
9- What are the potential effects of rum legislation or certification, such as AOC in Martinique?
I can’t see it officially happening as rum is made in too many different countries. If it did happen it could be devastating to some rum companies as blends/recipes and brands would have to be re-named.
10- If you didn’t organize the rum expo in your country, where would you like to do it?
Antarctica!.
Thanks Ian Burrell for his patience and to the next with the answers of Dirk Becker, creator of German Rum Fest in Berlin.
Marco Graziano
