We’ve managed to drag the team away from the rum stills for 5 minutes to introduce them properly…

Tom Read, Head Distiller

What’s your position, or how do you support TCDC?

I am the Managing Director and Head Distiller. I perform the day-to-day production at the distillery. This ranges from starting fermentations right through to sealing bottles and everything in between. I also will carry out product development, attend trade shows and everything else that goes with making rum that isn’t making rum.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I don’t really have a “typical day” but my week will generally involve starting one fermentation while stripping and finishing another to produce our rum. Alongside this I will be keeping a close eye and attending to resting products across the full range; with a bit of computer action thrown in too. I really should get a step counter, who needs the gym when you can just make rum.

What’s your favourite rum and the best way to drink it?

From our own range, I will always have a soft spot for Kalkar as it was our first product; just neat over ice. I also love our white rum, which was important for me in the range as from a purist’s point of view there is nowhere to hide. I’d serve it as a daiquiri, with fresh lime and easy on the syrup.

From elsewhere in the world I was really taken aback by some of the Clarins released last year; who would have thought a rum could taste like goat’s cheese and still be enjoyable!?

Also, the Worthy Parks Single Estate Reserve was an aged rum I recently tried that just keeps on giving.

What’s your favourite part of your job, or best memory?

For me my favourite part of the job is the diversity it brings and the constant learning. Everyday reveals something new for me to build on and become better for. This drive makes me very excited for what the future brings.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

This would have to involve a rum distillery and fortunately most of them are in warmer tropical climates! I think currently Barbados is top of the list closely followed by Jamaica.

What the hell, let’s call it a rum tour of the Caribbean!