‘First’ British rum to use African molasses launches

Matugga Beverages is to launch a new range of premium rums distilled in the UK from African sugar cane molasses – thought to be the first of its kind.

Matugga Rum is thought to be the first rum to be distilled in the UK from African molasses

Currently available in two expressions, Matugga Golden Rum and Matugga Spiced Rum, the Matugga Rum brand officially launches in the UK as part of London Rum Experience Week (12-18 October).

Master distiller, John Walters, produces the small-batch rum in Cambridgeshire. Molasses from East Africa is fermented for seven days, before being triple-distilled in 200-litre copper pot stills with swan neck condensers. With each round of distillation the heads and tails are cut. The rum is then finished in uncharred oak casks.

Matugga Spired Rum is infused with an East African mixed-spice tea blend made from six botanicals: black tea, ginger, cloves, vanilla, cardamom and cinnamon.

“The challenge with rums is to capture a panoply of flavour and depth and maintain a silky smoothness. Our master distiller has achieved this,” said Jacine Rutasikwa, co-founder of Matugga Beverages.

“As a result, our golden and spiced premium rums can truly be sipped neat or on ice in addition to making outstanding cocktails.”

Dr. Walters, master distiller, added: “I chose 42 percent alcohol by volume for both rums not simply for weight, but to hold just the right ensemble of flavours intended and to deliver a rich mouthfeel.”

Husband and wife team Paul and Jacine Rutasikwa co-own Matugga Beverages. The pair own family land in Matugga, a town located 13 miles north of Kampala, Uganda’s capital and largest city.

Paul Rutasikwa, co-founder of Matugga Beverages, said: “The naturally rich, red soils of East Africa provide an ideal terrain for high-quality sugar cane, from which we source the finest molasses. We are proud to be promoting East Africa’s incredibly rich natural produce while showcasing British micro-distillery craft at its best.

“Consumers are becoming more attuned to carefully crafted, artisan sprits. In addition to quality and taste, their focus is very much on how the ingredients are sourced and, importantly, how they’re handled afterwards. It matters to them and it matters to us.”

Rum Experience Week takes place across London from 12 October.