Co-Founders of the Israel Rum Society: URI GLATT & ROTEM BUSKILA
TRL: Who are Uri Glatt and Rotem Buskila?
– Rotem: 42 years old, Quality engineer, married + 3 with a passion for rum that ignited ~2018 while tasting my first Foursquare from Asta Morris, things escalated quickly from just a personal interest into a thriving local community. Finding myself with countless hours dedicated to exploring the rich world of rum, sharing knowledge, and bit by bit adding friends and building a vibrant network of enthusiasts. The club has become a hub for rum lovers, offering tastings, educational events, and a space for connecting with others who share a deep appreciation for this timeless spirit. Through unwavering dedication and enthusiasm, Uri and I continue to explore and find inspirational rum stories and liquid, hoping to keep elevating the appreciation of rum in the local community and, hopefully, beyond.
– Uri: 33-year-old lawyer specializing in dispute resolution and class actions, married to Noam, and a proud father to Geffen. In 2020, after a few years of exploring whiskey, I became intrigued by the world of rum. This curiosity led me to connect with Rotem, and together we started an exciting journey into rum’s unique and diverse landscape. I am most interested in exploring the history and culture behind rum, with a particular attraction to the more obscure and less mainstream options available, and always curious to taste new things.
TRL: What does the rum mean to you? What made you fall in love with rum and when did it happen?
Rum, for us, represents more than just a beverage; it is a gateway to a rich history, culture, and craftsmanship. What captivated us about rum was not only the complexity of its flavors but also the stories and traditions behind each bottle. The diverse profiles, from the spicy and bold to the smooth and complex spirits, highlight the diversity of the cultures that produce them. This exploration turned into a deep appreciation, as I discovered how each rum reflects the unique character and heritage of its origin. My love for rum is rooted in the way it brings people together, offering a shared experience that invites endless exploration.
TRL: Three essential characteristics that define the rum according to your perspective.
From our perspective, three essential characteristics that define rum are first Complex Flavor Profiles which can range from sweet and fruity to spicy and smoky: each rum tells a unique story through its flavors.
The second factor is its Cultural Heritage, which is deeply intertwined with the history and traditions of the regions where it is produced. Whether it’s the vibrant rum culture of the Caribbean or the artisanal practices of smaller distilleries around the world, we believe that this connection to heritage adds layers of meaning to every sip. Finally, it’s the Artisanal Craftsmanship involved in rum production, whether its traditional pot stills or modern column stills.
TRL: What is the most important contribution you have made in the rum industry?
We have built a rum community with over 300 active members, creating a space where people can come together to share their love for rum and learn more about it. By hosting tastings, educational events, and discussions, the group has not only boosted appreciation for rum but also brought people closer together. These efforts have helped raise the profile of rum locally, shining a light on its rich history and diverse flavors, and sparking a broader conversation about this remarkable spirit.
TRL: Benefits that the rum industry has given you.
– Rotem: I guess a sense of community and connection. We have met a diverse group of people who share a passion for rum, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences. It has also provided countless learning opportunities, from understanding rum production, the distinctive styles, and regions… Above all, this journey has enriched us with knowledge, friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the craft.
TRL: What’s another thing you are passionate about besides rum? Why?
– Uri: Road bicycle racing and traveling abroad in the Far East.
– Rotem: It is all about travel for me, live concerts, and great food experiences.
TRL: What is your favorite place for drinking rum?
– Rotem: My favorite place to enjoy rum is with friends. There’s something special about sitting in a space where you can sip a neat pour or perfectly crafted cocktail while engaging in meaningful conversation, making it a memorable part of the enjoyment. In the end, it’s the company and experience that makes the spirits so unforgettable.
TRL: Favorite drink + Recipe
– Rotem: One of my favorite drinks is the classic Daiquiri. It’s simple yet elegant, allowing the quality of the rum to shine. – 60ml white rum – 30ml fresh lime (or lemon) juice – 22 ml simple syrup (2:1)/ Falernum if in hand even better. (Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass).
– Uri: I can appreciate cocktails, but I drink only neat and focus mostly on molasses-based rums.
TRL: Why is it important to educate the rum consumer?
Specifically in Israel, there are many misconceptions about rum, ranging from misunderstandings about its quality and the meaning of terms like “gold” or “dark,” to its origins and the belief that rum is only suitable for cocktails rather than being enjoyed neat. We aim to correct these misconceptions and share our knowledge and passion, helping people see that rum is just as vast and intriguing as whiskey, if not more so.
TRL: Any tips to train the palate and taste a good premium rum?
– Rotem: To train your palate and taste a good premium rum, start by sampling a range of rums from different regions and styles. Pay attention to the aroma, noting the various scents like fruit, spice, or vanilla. When tasting, focus on the flavors and mouthfeel, and consider the finish. Take your time with each sip and compare notes with others to refine your ability to identify and appreciate the subtleties of high-quality rums.
– Uri: I believe in comparative tasting, and even better if it’s a blind tasting. Whether it’s rum or other familiar spirits, I find it helps to spot the differences and connect them to specific tasting notes. It is also useful to develop a language for describing the nuances of flavors and aromas, linking them to other sensory experiences we encounter. Over time, this builds a mental network of notes, which helps to articulate the taste and aroma of a drink more clearly.
TRL: How can the rum contribute to improving the crisis in some countries?
– Uri: This is not a subject we can address from a personal point of view, but we believe it’s important that those involved in the production process – from growing the sugarcane to distillation – are compensated and credited in a way that encourages continued production and maintains the connection between the process, the people involved, and the final product. A disconnect between producers and the product will eventually result in a “synthetic” product lacking heart and soul, which are often key elements of what creates the magic.
TRL: Who would you like to meet in the rum industry? What would you say to him/her?
– Rotem: I would love to meet Richard Seale, a prominent figure in the rum industry known for his expertise and innovative approach. Also to express my admiration for his dedication to preserving traditional rum-making techniques while pushing the boundaries of quality and transparency. I’d also love to discuss his insights on the future of rum.
TRL: What are your next goals in the rum industry?
– Rotem: Expanding the reach of the Israel rum society to connect with more enthusiasts and industry professionals. I aim to organize more educational events, collaborate with distilleries, and explore new trends in rum.
– Uri: We are currently working on our second community bottling after we had a collaboration with El Ron del Artesano. We cannot share more details, ATM, but it is going to be very interesting. We also plan an incredibly special Guyana-themed tasting with historical bottles later this year.
TRL: What is your advice for new generations in the rum industry?
Stay curious and open-minded. Embrace the rich history and traditions of rum, but also be willing to experiment and innovate. Continuously seek knowledge, build strong connections within the industry, and always prioritize quality and sustainability. It’s all about passion and dedication.
TRL: How can people learn more about you? Website? Social media page?
Our community is mainly active through our WhatsApp group (contact us to join). We also share our activities and updates via our Facebook, X, and Instagram pages:
