What does the term 'skimmings' refer to during rum production?

The term 'skimmings' during rum production specifically refers to the residual product that is left after boiling sugarcane juice, which contains sugar and minerals. This substance is generated when the juice is processed to extract the sugars that will eventually be fermented to produce rum. Skimmings can have various uses, including being fed to livestock or being further processed, but it is characterized by its richness in sugars and minerals that can also play a role in the fermentation process.

Understanding the production process of rum is important, and recognizing the role of skimmings contributes to a deeper comprehension of rum's raw materials and how they affect the final product. This context informs not only production methods but also the flavor profiles of the rums produced, though the term itself does not directly refer to flavor profiles or aging methods.