Something that makes Jamaican rum so unusual is a particular substyle colloquially known as high ester rum. Most hardcore Jamaican rum wonks have heard that a law prohibits selling Jamaican rum with an ester level exceeding 1600. Naturally, we might ask: what are ester levels? And why do the Jamaicans cap them?
Why Does Jamaica Limit Its Rum to 1600 Esters?
Great read, Matt! Really fascinating context. Thanks for sharing this tidbit — I can’t wait for the book!