The 2007 Ministry of Rum Tasting Competition was held in New Orleans at Arnaud's Restaurant July 18th and 19th concurrent with the 5th Anniversary of Tales of the Cocktail. The Tasting Competition drew entries from 16 rum producing countries in the Caribbean basin and was judged by a panel of 37 judges which included knowledgeable spirits journalists, rum producers, mixologists and rum marketers. A total of 28 Gold, 29 Silver, and 12 Bronze medals were awarded is what can only be described as very hard work for all the judges who participated.

The more than 70 sugar cane spirits were judged on their aroma, initial taste, body and finish. The Tasting Competition was conducted by Edward Hamilton, the author of several books on rum and the Ministry of Rum website.

After spending the last 14 years researching sugar cane spirits, I was very pleased by the consistent quality of the spirits entered in this competition. Across all categories, the quality of rums tasted was above what I've seen in past years and there were several very pleasant surprises.

According to the prevailing industry wisdom, flavored rums are loosing ground in the market, but after tasting flavors which can only be described as delicious, I'm confident that some of these products will find favor in the market.

The complete results can be found here. Congratulations to all those who have made a commitment to the future of this versatile spirit.

The 2008 Ministry of Rum Tasting Competition will be held in New Orleans the 3rd week of July.

Edward Hamilton

To add your name to the 2008 Ministry of Rum Tasting Competition please register on the Rum Lovers Forum and select the option to be on the 2008 mailing list.