🥃 Mount Gay

Mount Gay is a Barbados rum brand run by Mount Gay Rum Distilleries. The oldest written evidence is a purchase deed of 20 February 1703 that mentions rum-making equipment. The company traces its own history back to 1663, but only 1703 is documented; most of the shares are held by Rémy Cointreau.

History. According to Difford's Guide, William Sandiford merged several plantations into a 280-acre estate called Mount Gilboa. In 1747 it was bought by John Sober, and after the death of Sir John Gay Alleyne in 1801 the estate was renamed in his honour, as a Mount Alleyne already existed on the island. In 1918 the owner became Aubrey Ward, and since 1989 most of the shares have been held by Rémy Cointreau.

How it is made. The molasses ferments in wooden washbacks for 36 to 48 hours. Column stills produce a light spirit at about 97% ABV, while copper pot stills produce a heavier one that adds character; the first column still arrived in 1930. The rums mature in American white oak, in former Jim Beam bourbon barrels that are used three or four times. Ages range from one to twelve years. The water comes from deep wells.

Range. Eclipse is named after the solar eclipse of 1910, XO is a blend of 8 to 12-year-old rums, Black Barrel is finished in charred bourbon barrels, and 1703 is a rare release of rums aged 10 to 30 years.

Why it matters to you. The claim of being the "oldest" is part of the brand's story, not independent confirmation. Read the age and strength of each version. The WHO reminds us that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption.