When I heard that future supply of Mount Gay Rum might be in jeopardy, I was tempted to drown my sorrows with what could be my last bottle. But since the sun was not yet over the gunnel, I turned instead to the internet for solace. And once I dug into the story a little, I wondered: was I already deep in a rum-fog? Or maybe the principals have been talking to the press only after testing their own products?

Mount Gay hats

Mount Gay's red hats are icons at sailing events around the world.



Apparently there are both a distillery and a refinery that bear the Mount Gay name on the small island of Barbados. Rum-making ceased at the Refinery six months ago, though the world somehow continued spinning on its axis.

Meanwhile, producers of rum at Mount Gay Distilleries Limited say they are "still very much in business." “Our production of Mount Gay Rum continues as normal,” said managing director Raphael Grisoni.

While the controversy swirls on Facebook and elsewhere, I know where I'm heading this afternoon. To the local liquor distributor, to stock up on a case or three of Mount Gay Rum... just in case.

I'll post an update, once the rum-fog clears.

Written by: Carol Cronin
Carol Cronin has published several novels about the Olympics, sailing, hurricanes, time travel, and old schooners. She spends as much time on the water as possible, in a variety of boats, though most have sails.