What contributes to the floral aromas and fruity notes in French style rum?

The floral aromas and fruity notes found in French style rum, especially those produced in the tradition of rhum agricole, are primarily attributed to the ingredients used during production, specifically fresh sugarcane juice. The use of sugarcane juice, rather than molasses, allows for more of the natural flavors and aromas inherent in the cane to be preserved throughout the fermentation and distillation processes. This results in a rum that is notably lighter, more aromatic, and complex in flavor, often showcasing vibrant notes of tropical fruits and floral characteristics.

In contrast, methods such as maturation in stainless steel do not contribute to these aroma profiles since steel lacks the interaction with the spirit that wood barrels provide, which can impart various other flavors. Long fermentation periods may enhance certain characteristics but do not specifically create the floral and fruity attributes associated with fresh sugarcane. The use of molasses typically leads to a different style of rum that is richer and heavier, lacking the same level of floral and fruity nuances found in a cane juice-based rum. Thus, the unique ingredient of fresh sugarcane is key in defining the aromatic profile of French style rum.