Oliver Gerhardt, founder of RumX: Transparency and community for the world of rum.

Oliver Gerhardt isn’t a master distiller or a traditional producer, but his impact on the rum industry is undeniable. As the founder of RumX, he has transformed how rum lovers connect with this category.

With a background in computer science and an overflowing passion for rum, Gerhardt has created what he describes as the “digital home” for enthusiasts: a platform that brings together the world’s largest database (more than 25,000 bottles), a vibrant community of 48,000 users, and an integrated marketplace that opens the doors to a historically opaque market. His vision combines technology, smart data, and community power to bring transparency and accessibility to a world that once seemed reserved for only a select few.

TRL: What was the biggest challenge you faced in launching your brand, and how did you overcome it?

Building a tech platform faces the classic “Chicken and Egg” problem. A database is worthless without users to fill it, but a community won’t form without existing data. I overcame this through bootstrapping and pure passion. I started RumX in 2018 as a hobby project called “Rum Tasting Notes” simply to solve my own problem: my Excel spreadsheets were becoming untamable. The transition from a “nerd tool” to a mass platform happened because we listened obsessively to user feedback, building the features they actually needed—like our label scanner and collection management tools.

TRL: How do you see the rum market evolving in the next 5-10 years?

Based on the data from our RumX Community Awards 2025, we see three clear trends: First, Transparency Wins. Our data shows a direct correlation: the more information on the label (additives, distillery, cask details), the higher the user rating. The era of “Secret Blends” is ending. Second, the Rise of the Indies. Independent Bottlers are currently outperforming heritage brands in the premium segment regarding quality ratings. Third, Premiumization as an Asset Class. Rum is becoming a serious investment, just like Whisky. Our users currently manage portfolios worth over €53 million on the platform.

TRL:  Can you share a personal experience or moment that significantly influenced your brand’s direction?

The “Aha!” A moment came when I realized I had completely forgotten what a specific expensive rum tasted like because my analog notes were a mess. That was the spark for the software. But the direction changed when users started organizing physical meetups and bottle splits via the app. That’s when I realized RumX isn’t just a database; it is a social network for connoisseurs. Our core belief became: “Rum is the most versatile spirit in the world”—and we wanted to build a digital map for that diversity.

TRL: How do you balance tradition with innovation in your approach?

We have deep respect for the craft, but we disrupt outdated structures. On the tradition side, our database captures every traditional detail—still types, fermentation times, and aging methods. On the innovation side, we challenge how things are done. For example: Awards. Historically, small expert panels decided winners behind closed doors. Today, the RumX Awards rely on an algorithm analyzing over 60,000 data points—the true “Wisdom of the Crowd”.

TRL: What are some recent initiatives or products you’ve launched that have been particularly impactful?

We just released the RumX Community Awards 2025, which is the first fully data-driven global award. It’s 100% democratic. We also executed a major E-Commerce Pivot, transforming from an info-portal to a marketplace hub. We have connected 40+ leading European shops like Maison du Whisky, Excellence Rhum or Spirit Academy via API. Users now see not just how a rum tastes, but where to buy it immediately. Lastly, our new Buyer’s Guide distinguishes between “Best Single Cask” (for sipping/collecting) and “Best Standard” (for mixing) to help guide beginners.

TRL: How do you educate consumers about rum?

For us, Data is Education. We empower consumers with information. When you scan a barcode with RumX, you immediately see if sugar was added or not. Our lesson to consumers is: “Don’t drink the label, drink the liquid.” Trust your palate and the community consensus over marketing claims. Looking ahead to 2026, we are planning a comprehensive “Knowledge Hub” within the app to guide newcomers through tasting techniques and styles.

TRL: How do you manage quality and consistency as your brand grows?

Since we are a tech platform, “Quality” means “Data Quality.” We use proprietary algorithms for fraud detection to identify review bombing or fake accounts. We also plan to prioritize the “Trust Score,” meaning the voice of an experienced user carries more weight in our algorithm than that of a one-time buyer. Furthermore, we use statistical medians instead of simple averages to eliminate outliers. This ensures our ratings remain the “Gold Standard” globally.

TRL: Can you share a collaboration or partnership that helped elevate your brand?

On the supply side, partnering with leading retailers (like LMDW and Rhum Attitude) turned us from a hobby app into a relevant e-commerce player. On the community side, collaborations with respected bloggers and opinion leaders—such as Matt Pietrek or Single Cask Rum—who validate and use our data, have been invaluable.

TRL: What is your long-term vision for RumX?

My vision is that RumX becomes the global “Operating System” for rum. Whether you are discovering, tracking, buying, or selling—it should all happen on one platform. We see our role as the neutral data provider. We help the industry finally understand their end customer, knowing not just what is bought, but why it tastes good to them.

TRL: What’s one piece of educational advice you would give rum lovers?

My motto is: “Drink less, but better.” My tip is to do blind tastings. Our app has a specific „Blind Tasting Mode” for this. Detach yourself from prices and brands and trust only your palate. And document your journey, because your taste will evolve!

TRL: How can people learn more about you?

You can find the Award results and more on our website: www.rum-x.com To get the full experience, search for “RumX” on the App Store or Play Store. And follow us on Instagram @rumx.app.

Stay Updated

Discover the Spirit of Rum! Subscribe now for behind-the-scenes distillery stories, rare bottle finds, and expert tips!