SMUGGLER'S RESERVE BARBADOS
The Legacy of Smuggler's Reserve: A Taste of History in Every Sip
Smuggler's Reserve Rum is more than just a drink—it's a tribute to the daring rum runners and speakeasy patrons who defied the odds during Prohibition in the United States. With its rich history and luxurious taste, this Barbados-crafted spirit is a liquid homage to resilience, celebration, and the enduring allure of rum.
A Brief Dive into Prohibition and Rum
Running Prohibition, a constitutional ban on alcohol from 1920 to 1933, forced the closure of thousands of bars across the U.S. Yet, it couldn’t quench the public's thirst for "liquid gold." Enter the rum runners, brave smugglers who navigated treacherous waters and backroads to deliver their prized cargo to speakeasies and secret gatherings.These speakeasies, often hidden behind unassuming doors, were lively havens where people could enjoy drinks, music, and camaraderie away from the watchful eyes of Prohibition agents. Smuggler's Reserve honors this era with every bottle, capturing the bold spirit of those who kept the party alive.
Barbados: The Birthplace of Rum
Barbados, often regarded as the birthplace of rum, has a history of distillation dating back to the 17th century. Known for its lush tropical climate and pristine sugarcane, the island produces some of the world's finest rums. Smuggler's Reserve Rum embodies this heritage, drawing on centuries of expertise and tradition.The rum is crafted using a blend from two of the island's most iconic distilleries—Foursquare and the West Indies Rum Distillery. Matured for 3 to 8 years in ex-bourbon barrels under Barbados's warm, humid conditions, the rum develops a distinct richness that reflects its tropical environment. The combination of pot- and column-still distillation ensures a balance of complexity and smoothness, making it a true gem among Caribbean rums.This is a rum that not only celebrates the craftsmanship of Barbados but also invites you to experience the laid-back, easy-going vibe that the island is famous for.
Flavour Profile: Full-bodied and rich, with notes of vanilla, coconut, toffee, and toasted marshmallow, complemented by a subtle oakiness.
Finish: Long, round, and satisfying - a true testament to its tropical origins.
Relive the Roaring Twenties
Every sip of Smuggler's Reserve takes you back to an era of hidden speakeasies, lively jazz, and courageous smugglers. Whether you're enjoying it neat, in a classic cocktail, or in a Smuggler's Mule, this rum invites you to celebrate history, one glass at a time.Indulge in Smuggler's Reserve and toast to the legacy of rum-running—a story of boldness, resilience, and a universal love for exceptional spirits. Let the taste of Barbados remind you of the island’s vibrant culture and the passion behind every bottle.
The Cocktails
Smuggler's Mule
Ingredients
- 50ml Smuggler's Reserve Barbados Rum
- 120ml Supermalt Ginger Beer
- 15ml fresh lime juice
- Ice cubes
- Lime wheel and mint sprig for garnish
Method
1) Fill a highball glass with ice.
2) Add the Smuggler's Reserve Rum and lime juice.
3) Top up with Supermalt Ginger Beer and stir gently to combine.
4) Garnish with a lime wheel and a fresh sprig of mint.
Bajan Breeze Cocktail
Ingredients
- 50ml Smuggler's Reserve Barbados Rum
- 20 ml orange liqueur (e.g., Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- 15 ml fresh lime juice
- 10 ml rich sugar syrup (2:1 ratio of sugar to water)
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
- Ice cubes
- Lime Slice and grated nutmeg for garnish
Method
1) Add the rum, orange liqueur, lime juice, and sugar syrup into a shaker filled with ice. Shake well for about 10 seconds to chill and combine.
2) Strain the mixture into a large glass filled with fresh ice.
3) Pour in the Supermalt Ginger Beer.
4) Add two dashes of Angostura bitters.
5) Garnish with a fresh lime slice and a light dusting of grated nutmeg.