[imagesource:

When last did you drink rum?

We’re not talking about the stuff associated with pirates and unruly ship captains, but rum that has the same level of craftsmanship as you’ll find in all those gins sweeping the country.

It’s been a while, hey.

At the internationally recognised 2021 Old Mutual Trophy Spirits Awards, Elephantom African Dark Rum, from the Kinship Spirits portfolio of small-batch craft spirits, claimed the ‘Best Rum in Show’ accolade.

Dark and mysterious, the rum is triple distilled from pure fermented cane molasses in a copper pot still and aged in bourbon casks.

This leads to a rich, rounded fruity flavour that’s full of complexity. The caramel notes fade to reveal cooked peaches, light spices, vanilla, and hints of apple. 

There’s also a wonderful origin story, with a mystical legend inspiring Kinship’s signature rum.

Folklore tells of a bull elephant from the Knysna Forest that would magically appear and disappear as he pleased.

With hunting and habitat destruction decimating this once flourishing herd of forest elephants, the legend of the bull continues to inspire.

Elephantom Rum is created in honour of that lone bull elephant – a magnificent creature that stokes curiosity and fascination. 

It’s the sort of drink that is perhaps best enjoyed when relaxing around a fire, although a solid cocktail recipe or two is also warranted.

Did I hear somebody say Piña Colada?

It also goes down a treat in a Caipirinha, Dark Rum Mojito, or Planter’s Punch.

You’ll find all those recipes here.

The Kinship Spirits range also includes Malachite Fynbos Gin, Albatross Vodka, and Karo Brandy.