Rum has been a much-enjoyed spirit since it was first produced in the 17th century on sugar plantations in the West Indies. In the last few years, more distillers have taken up the mantle, creating something of a rum renaissance, and now a new English brand, Vapoura, has entered the scene, adding a little spice to the rum world.
Vapoura launched in June 2023, founded by Charles and Olly Barkley, alongside their friends Ed Jackson and Ross Stirling. With their sights firmly set on the premium spirits market, they set out to bring something new to the table that celebrated the flavour of the rum but also incorporated new and innovative distillation techniques.
Under the watchful and inventive eye of master distiller Dr John Walters — the entrepreneur whose love of the alchemy of distillation led to the birth of the English Spirits Distillery
— Vapoura was created.
“Selecting the right notes and ingredients to elevate the raw molasses has been perfected by our master distiller, Dr John Walters, affectionately known as The Rum Wizard, and has opened our eyes to the sheer quality of rum Vapoura is able to create,” commented Charles Barkley, CEO and co-founder of Vapoura Rum. “Combining a traditionally artisanal approach with our proprietary distillation process, we are so proud to say that we have created a liquid that truly speaks for itself. Bringing a renewed purpose and passion for experimentation to the ever-admired rum category – we can’t wait to get it in people’s hands.”
Vapoura, which the company calls ‘traditionally untraditional’, is triple distilled in small batches using traditional copper pot stills. Where Vapoura differs in the distillation process is that a proprietary yeast strain is used, which has been developed and fine-tuned to produce the flavours and aromas that are at the heart of the spirit, adding complexity to the liquor.
Initially, Vapoura launched two expressions, gold and spiced rum, nationwide. The spiced rum — which we’ve tasted — has a hit of caramel and citrus on the nose, which opens out to reveal blood orange and spices on the palate, with just a hint of sweetness. The finish is long, smooth and warming, with the turmeric and cardamom balancing the flavours beautifully.
Vapoura Golden Rum promises hints of vanilla, tobacco and chocolate on the nose, rounded out with deeper notes of vanilla and caramel on the palate and a long finish.
No matter which flavour you opt for, Vapoura — which is available directly from the Vapoura Rum website
or at select London bars, including The Mandrake hotel — is well-balanced and smooth, making it great for sipping neat. If you aren’t a fan of neat spirits, Vapoura will make a great addition to any rum cocktail.
