Rum is a popular spirit that is enjoyed by many around the world, and while Australia may not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking about rum production, there is indeed rum being made in the land Down Under. One notable distillery that is pioneering the production of Australian rum is Husk.
Husk is located on a family farm in Northern New South Wales and is known for their commitment to producing rum from paddock to bottle. What sets Husk apart is that they are creating Australia’s only virgin cane rum, which means that they use fresh, unprocessed sugarcane to make their rum. This is quite unique as most rums are made from molasses, a byproduct of the sugar refining process.
The process of making rum at Husk begins with the cultivation of sugarcane on their estate. They carefully tend to the sugarcane plants, ensuring they are grown in rich, fertile soil and free from harmful chemicals. This dedication to quality and sustainability is evident in the final product.
Once the sugarcane is fully grown, it is harvested and transported to the distillery where the magic happens. The sugarcane is crushed to extract the juice, which is then fermented to convert the sugars into alcohol. This fermentation process is closely monitored to ensure the desired flavors and aromas develop.
After fermentation, the liquid is distilled to further concentrate the alcohol content and refine the flavors. Husk uses traditional copper pot stills for their distillation process, which allows for greater control over the final product. The resulting distillate is then aged in oak barrels, allowing the flavors to mellow and develop over time.
The aging process for rum is crucial, as it imparts unique characteristics to the spirit. Husk carefully selects the barrels in which their rum is aged, ensuring that each batch achieves the desired flavor profile. The length of aging can vary depending on the desired style of rum, with some being aged for several years to develop complex flavors.
Once the rum has reached its desired maturity, it is carefully bottled and labeled, ready to be enjoyed by rum enthusiasts. Husk takes pride in their craftsmanship and attention to detail, ensuring that each bottle of rum that leaves their distillery is of the highest quality.
In addition to their commitment to producing exceptional rum, Husk is also known for their innovative Ink Gin. This unique spirit changes color when mixed with tonic or citrus, creating a visually stunning and vibrant cocktail experience. While Ink Gin may be their most well-known product, it is their dedication to producing Australian rum that truly sets them apart.
While rum may not be the first spirit that comes to mind when thinking about Australian alcohol production, Husk Distillers is leading the way in creating high-quality, single estate rum from paddock to bottle. Their commitment to using fresh sugarcane and their meticulous attention to detail in the production process is evident in the final product. So, if you’re looking to explore the world of Australian rum, Husk is definitely a distillery worth checking out.