Welcome to your beginner’s guide to the world of rum! This rich, versatile spirit offers flavors ranging from smoky and spicy to smooth and tropical, making it a favorite for cocktails and sipping alike. Whether you’re a rum aficionado or new to the spirit, explore some of the best brands, tasting notes, and cocktail recipes to bring a bit of the Caribbean into every glass.
Rum Brands to Watch
Appleton Estate 12-Year Rare Casks (Double Gold): Earthy and fruity with layers of oak, vanilla, and warm spices. Aged for 12 years in Jamaica, it’s ideal for both cocktails and slow sipping.
Mount Gay Black Barrel (Gold): Bold with notes of oak, spice, and caramel, this whiskey is aged in charred bourbon barrels and has a rich, complex profile perfect for sipping or classic cocktails.
Bacardi Reserva Ocho (Gold): Flavors of stone fruits, vanilla, and subtle spices. With eight years of aging, this rum has a balanced sweetness and depth.
Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva (Silver): Full-bodied with hints of chocolate, toffee, and orange peel. This Venezuelan rum’s smooth, sweet profile is irresistible.
Classic Cocktails to Mix at Home
Rum Punch: Combine 2 oz dark rum, 1 oz pineapple juice, 1 oz orange juice, 0.5 oz lime juice, and a dash of grenadine in a shaker with ice. hake, strain, and serve over ice. Garnish with an orange slice and cherry for a tropical touch.
Dark ‘n’ Stormy: Fill a glass with ice, pour 2 oz dark rum, top with ginger beer, and squeeze the lime for added zest. This drink is spicy, refreshing, and simple to make.
Classic Daiquiri: Combine 2 oz white rum, 1 oz fresh lime juice, and 0.75 oz simple syrup into a shaker with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and enjoy! The balance of citrus and sweetness complements a quality white rum.
When tasting rum, pour a small amount into a glass and start by taking in the aroma. Look for hints of vanilla, caramel, fruit, or spices. Take a small sip to explore the flavors, letting it linger on the palate to uncover all its layers. Pay attention to the mouthfeel and finish, and enjoy the unique profiles of each rum. Whether you’re savoring a complex aged rum or mixing up a classic cocktail, there’s a world of flavor to explore.