Embarking on a culinary journey to explore the harmonious marriage of flavours, I find myself drawn to the tantalising combination of rum and chocolate.
This adventure is a symphony of senses, an ode to the exquisite dance between Jack Sparrow's daring spirit and Willy Wonka's imaginative sweetness.
Let's delve into the realm of pairing rum and chocolate, where every sip and bite transports us to a realm of uncharted pleasure.
A Connoisseur's Pursuit: Quality Above All
As we embark on this gustatory voyage, one thing is certain: mediocrity has no place here. The alchemy between rum and chocolate demands only the finest ingredients. Let your taste buds revel in delight as high-quality single origin chocolate and carefully selected rums entwine in a sensory pas de deux. Whether it's the deep, aged tones of rum that complement the robust cocoa notes or the younger, vibrant rums that dance with the milkier, sweeter chocolates, let the experience be one of opulence and indulgence.
Barrels of Wisdom: The Elixir of Age
The craftsmanship of oak barrels used in rum's ageing process weaves a tapestry of nuanced flavours – charcoal, smoke, vanilla, and caramel. Much like a skilled conductor leading an orchestra, the barrels contribute to the final crescendo of taste. When choosing your rum, consider these barrels as instruments in the symphony of flavours. Let your knowledge of this intricate process guide you in selecting a chocolate that will dance harmoniously with your chosen rum.
Rum and Chocolate: Kindred Spirits
Rum and chocolate share more than just a geographical origin; they share a soulful affinity. Both are complex entities, rich in character, and when brought together, they create a synergy that awakens the senses. The world of rum offers a spectrum of flavours, allowing us to explore a myriad of serendipitous combinations. From the smoky depths to the splendid sweetness, there's a rum for every chocolate and a chocolate for every rum. Take inspiration from David @st_abbs at St Abbs Reserve Rums, where tropical fruits, citrus, warm spices, and more intertwine in a tantalising symphony of taste.
The Art of Pairing: A Symphony of Flavours
When uniting the velvety depths of chocolate with the spirited embrace of rum, there are some general guidelines to embrace.
Fruity-bodied and oaken notes find their perfect counterpart in the embrace of milk and white chocolate.
As the cocoa percentage ascends to 60-72%, a crescendo of flavours unfolds – toffee, coffee, leather, tobacco, and dark dried fruits.
Should you favour milk chocolate, let its allure be tempered by a modest portion, for the rum's proof will cleanse your palate, leaving room for further enchantment.
A Culinary Ballet: Unveiling the Pairings
St Abbs Captain’s Table XO: Engage your senses with Haitian 75% Dark chocolate. Citrusy and chocolatey notes of aged rum blend seamlessly with hints of fruit in this exquisite chocolate. Raisins, brandy snap, dates, prunes, leather, tobacco, and toasted wood dance together in a harmonious duet.
Angostura 1824 (Trinidad) and Pralus Trinidad Trinitario: Here, is where cane and cocoa unite in perfect harmony. A smoky, rich rum finds its partner in herb-and-tobacco flavoured chocolate, creating a sensory symphony of flavour.
St Abbs Six Spice: Let the bold, rich flavours of Guittard's Soleil d'Or 38% cacao echo the rum's warm embrace. Cinnamon, clove, star anise, black pepper, and ginger find their counterparts in this chocolate, creating a dance of spice and delight.
Rhum Barbancourt 15 Year old (Haiti) and Valrhona Caraïbe: Experience the velvety depths of aged rum embracing the complexities of Valrhona's Caraïbe chocolate. Chocolate and cocoa butter lead this duo through a whirlwind of flavours.
Appleton Estate 21-Year-Old (Jamaica) Haitian 75% Dark Bar: Citrusy notes of aged rum intertwine with tangy tropical fruits in this decadent pairing. A sensory exploration awaits with every bite and sip.
St Abbs Cask Silver: The zest of citrus, the richness of coconut, the warmth of woody tones, and the allure of cocoa find their counterparts in Guittard's Soleil d'Or 38% Milk Chocolate or Soleil Blanche White Chocolate. A dance of flavours awaits, captivating the palate with each bite.
A Prelude to Culinary Mastery
As you embrace this artistic venture of pairing rum and chocolate, remember that there's no exact science to it – it's a masterpiece of artistry.
The canvas is your palate, the paints are the chocolate and rum, and the brushstrokes are your choices. Practice and curiosity are your guides, leading you to discover new harmonies and delights.
So, set sail on this gustatory voyage, be a culinary explorer, and let your senses be your compass. In this world of indulgence, the treasures are countless, and the joy immeasurable. Bon appétite