What is rotgut rum?

Rotgut, also called wreck rum or kill-devil, is a derogatory term used to describe low-quality or illicitly produced alcoholic beverages, particularly rum. It is often associated with cheap, mass-produced spirits that are made with poor-quality ingredients and lack proper aging or distillation processes.

The term originated from the early days of rum production in the Caribbean, where it referred to rum that had not been properly distilled or that was made from fermented sugarcane molasses rather than fresh cane juice. These lower-quality rums were often sold to sailors or consumed by enslaved people on plantations.

Over time, the term "rotgut" became associated with any type of low-quality alcoholic beverage, regardless of its origin or composition. It is often used to describe homemade moonshine, illegally distilled spirits, or cheap brands of mass-produced liquor.

Rotgut is typically characterized by its harsh, unpleasant taste, high alcohol content, and potential health risks. Due to its poor quality and lack of regulation, rotgut can contain impurities, methanol, or other harmful substances that can cause serious health problems, including alcohol poisoning, blindness, or even death.

For these reasons, it is important to be cautious when consuming any alcoholic beverages, especially those that are labeled as "rotgut" or that come from unknown sources. It is always advisable to purchase alcoholic beverages from reputable sources and to moderate your consumption.