Matugga rum launch brings taste of East Africa to the UK

By Mathew Lyons

Published: 12 October, 2015

This week sees the launch of the first UK-distilled rum to be produced from East African sugar cane molasses.

The Matugga rum range will be available during the London Rum Experience, which runs at venues across the city from October 12 to 18.

It is a small-batch distillation created by Master Distiller, Dr John Walters.

The range comprises Matugga Golden Rum and Matugga Spiced Rum. The latter is infused with black tea, ginger, cloves, vanilla, cardamom and cinnamon. It recently won a silver medal at the New York World Wine and Spirits Competition.

Cambridge-based Matugga is owned and run by the husband-and-wife team of Paul and Jacine Rutasikwa. It is named after a town in Uganda where the Rutasikwa family owns a large landholding.

Matugga Golden Rum distilled from East African molasses

Paul Rutasikwa, says: "The naturally rich, red soils of East Africa provide an ideal terrain for high-quality sugar cane, from which we source the finest molasses.

"We are proud to be promoting East Africa's incredibly rich natural produce while showcasing British micro-distillery craft at its best.

"Consumers are becoming more attuned to carefully crafted, artisan sprits. In addition to quality and taste, their focus is very much on how the ingredients are sourced and, importantly, how they're handled afterwards. It matters to them and it matters to us."

Matugga rums are currently available online through www.matuggarum.com and www.masterofmalt.com.

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