As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that rum cannot be made from corn. Rum is specifically made from sugarcane, either directly from the sugarcane juice or from molasses, which is a by-product of the sugarcane refining process. The fermentation and distillation processes involved in rum production are tailored to the unique properties of sugarcane and its by-products.
Corn, on the other hand, is primarily used in the production of whiskey. Whiskey is made from a mixture of cereal grains, including corn, wheat, rye, and barley. The specific combination of grains used in whiskey production can vary, depending on the desired flavor profile and the regional traditions. However, corn is a common ingredient in many types of whiskey, such as bourbon and corn whiskey.
I have personally experienced the distinct flavors and characteristics of rum and whiskey through my work as a sommelier. The taste of rum is often characterized by its sweetness, derived from the sugarcane, while whiskey has a more complex flavor profile with notes of grains and often a smoky or woody undertone.
When it comes to aging, whiskey must be aged in wooden barrels for a specified period of time, whereas rum does not have such a requirement. Aging whiskey in barrels allows it to develop more intricate flavors and aromas over time. On the other hand, the aging process for rum is not mandatory, and some rum producers choose not to age their products. However, aged rums are highly sought after by enthusiasts due to the additional depth and complexity that aging can bring.
Rum cannot be made from corn as it is specifically produced from sugarcane or its by-products. The aging process also differs between rum and whiskey, with whiskey requiring aging in wooden barrels while rum may or may not undergo aging.