We have detailed in another article the differences between Continental and Tropical maturing. When comparing Whiskey and Rum, it must be part of the discussion. The climate of the barrel and the way the liquid heats up and cools down controls the level of interaction between the Spirit and the wood.
The interaction is accelerated in tropical climates such as Florida, the Caribbean, Central, and South America, compared to cooler climates such as the central US or Scotland.
It is important to learn where a Spirit was matured to manage your expectations of the product and deciphering the age statement if there is one.