Estimated reading time: 11 minutes
Understanding Rum
Rum is a distilled alcoholic beverage from sugarcane derivatives, like molasses or sugarcane juice. The rum-making process entails fermentation, distillation, and maturation in oak barrels. Based on color, flavor, and production techniques, rum can be categorized into various types, including:
White Rum
Also referred to as light or silver rum, white rum is a transparent and colorless rum with a gentle and sweet taste. It is typically filtered post-distillation to eliminate impurities or color remnants. White rum is highly adaptable and can be used in cocktails like mojitos, daiquiris, and piña coladas.
Dark Rum
Known as black or navy rum, dark rum features a deep brown or black color and boasts a complex flavor. It is generally aged in charred oak barrels for extended periods, contributing to the rum’s color and taste. Dark rum is commonly used in baking, cooking, or enjoyed neat or on rocks. Examples of dark rum include Myers’s, Gosling’s Black Seal, and Kraken.
Gold Rum
Gold rum, also called amber or medium rum, is a golden-hued rum with a well-rounded, smooth flavor profile. It is typically aged for shorter durations in oak barrels than dark rum, resulting in a lighter color and taste. Gold rum suits cocktails that call for a more distinct rum flavor, such as mai tais, cuba libres, and dark and stormies.
Spiced Rum
This variety of rum is infused with a range of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, vanilla, and ginger. Spiced rum can be crafted from any rum base, but it often has a darker hue and a sweeter flavor. It can be savored neat or combined with cola, apple cider, or ginger beer. Popular spiced rum brands include Captain Morgan, Sailor Jerry, and Bacardi Oakheart.
Uncovering the Richness of Dark Rum
Dark rum represents a variety of rum that undergoes extended aging in charred oak barrels, resulting in a deeper hue and a more complex taste. Alternative names for dark rum include black rum, navy rum, and old rum. This type of rum is a popular choice for cocktails like the Dark and Stormy, the Mai Tai, and the Zombie. Additionally, dark rum can be relished, served neat, or over ice.
The History of Dark Rum
The captivating story of dark rum stretches back to the 17th century when sugarcane plantations emerged in the Caribbean. Molasses, a byproduct of sugar manufacturing, was fermented and distilled to create rum. Initially, rum was an inexpensive and harsh beverage consumed by slaves, pirates, and sailors. In 1655, the British Royal Navy started providing rum rations to its sailors, who soon preferred the darker, more potent rums that could endure lengthy journeys. These became known as navy rums and were frequently blended from various sources to ensure a consistent final product.
The Production of Dark Rum
Dark rum originates from molasses, combined with yeast and water before being boiled and fermented. The duration of fermentation varies from a few days to multiple weeks, influenced by factors such as yeast type and temperature. The fermented liquid is then distilled using pot stills, column stills, or a mixture of both. Pot stills yield a denser, more flavorful rum, while column stills produce a lighter, more neutral variant. The distilled rum undergoes aging in charred or toasted oak barrels, which contributes to its color and taste. The aging period ranges from several months to multiple years, depending on the climate and regulations in the producing country. Some dark rums are further enhanced with spices, caramel, or other additives to improve their flavor and appearance.
The Characteristics of Dark Rum
Dark rum showcases a rich amber-to-brown color spectrum, with shades varying from reddish to near-black. The complex fragrance of dark rum encompasses hints of vanilla, caramel, molasses, spices, smoke, wood, leather, tobacco, or fruit. Boasting a full-bodied, sumptuous flavor, dark rum can be sweet, spicy, smoky, woody, fruity, or earthy. The finish is warm and velvety, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.
The Best Ways to Drink Dark Rum
Depending on your taste preferences and the occasion, there are numerous ways to savor dark rum. Here are a few suggestions:
- To fully experience the aroma and taste of dark rum, you can enjoy it neat or over ice in a snifter or tumbler glass. Adding a splash of water or club soda can help release the flavors and temper the alcohol’s bite.
- For those interested in mixing dark rum with other ingredients, it can be featured in an array of cocktails highlighting its adaptability and complexity. Classic dark rum cocktails include the Dark and Stormy (dark rum, ginger beer, and lime juice), the Mai Tai (dark rum, orange liqueur, lime juice, almond syrup, and white rum), and the Zombie (dark rum, apricot brandy, pineapple juice, lime juice, grenadine syrup, and overproof rum).
- Select dishes that complement or contrast its flavors when pairing dark rum with food. Ideal food pairings for dark rum include chocolate desserts (like brownies or cake), cheeses (such as cheddar or brie), tropical fruits (like pineapple or mango), and spicy dishes (such as jerk chicken or curry).
Rum Brands
Rum is a distilled alcoholic drink made from sugarcane byproducts, such as molasses, or directly from sugarcane juice. Rum is one of the most popular spirits in the world, and it comes in many varieties and flavors. In this blog post section, we will explore some of the best rum brands that you can enjoy on any occasion.
Bacardi
Bacardi is the largest privately held, family-owned spirits company in the world. Founded in 1862 in Cuba by Don Facundo Bacardí Massó, Bacardi is known for its white rum, aged for at least one year in charred oak barrels. Bacardi rum has a smooth and light taste, making it ideal for mixing with other drinks or enjoying it alone. Some of the most famous cocktails made with Bacardi rum are the Mojito, the Daiquiri, and the Cuba Libre.
Captain Morgan
Captain Morgan is a brand of spiced rum produced by Diageo. The brand was named after Sir Henry Morgan, a Welsh privateer who became the governor of Jamaica in the 17th century. Captain Morgan rum is made from molasses and aged in oak barrels, then blended with spices and natural flavors. Captain Morgan rum has a distinctive dark color and a rich and spicy taste, perfect for adding a kick to your drinks. Some of the most popular cocktails made with Captain Morgan rum are the Rum and Coke, the Hurricane, and the Long Island Iced Tea.
Malibu
Malibu is a brand of coconut-flavored rum liqueur produced by Pernod Ricard. The brand was created in 1980 in Barbados and is made with Caribbean rum and natural coconut extract. Malibu rum has a sweet and tropical taste reminiscent of a summer vacation. Malibu rum is great for making fruity and refreshing drinks, such as the Piña Colada, the Malibu Sunrise, and the Bay Breeze.
FAQ: Questions about Cruzan Rum
If you are curious about Cruzan Rum, a Caribbean rum with the spirit of St. Croix, you might have questions about this unique and delicious drink. Here are some of the most common questions and answers about Cruzan Rum.
Where to buy Cruzan Rum?
Cruzan Rum is available in many liquor stores and online retailers across the US and other countries. You can use the store locator on their website to find the nearest location that sells Cruzan Rum. You can also order Cruzan Rum online from various websites, such as Drizly, Total Wine, and Reserve Bar.
Where is Cruzan Rum made?
Cruzan Rum is made on the island of St. Croix, one of the US Virgin Islands. The rum is distilled from molasses using a five-column distillation process that produces a smooth and clean rum. The rum is then aged in American oak barrels for various periods of time, depending on the type of rum. Cruzan Rum has been made on St. Croix since 1760, and is still owned and operated by the Nelthropp family.
Where to buy Cruzan Black Strap Rum?
Cruzan Black Strap Rum is a rich, dark rum with a distinctive molasses flavor and aroma. It is ideal for mixing with ginger beer, cola, or coffee or adding depth and complexity to cocktails. Cruzan Black Strap Rum can be purchased from the same places as other Cruzan Rums, such as liquor stores, online retailers, or websites.
What is Cruzan Coconut Rum?
Cruzan Coconut Rum is a flavored rum made by Cruzan, a distillery based in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. It is one of the many varieties of rum that Cruzan produces, using natural ingredients and a unique aging process.
Cruzan Coconut Rum is smooth and creamy, with hints of tropical coconut and vanilla. It is perfect for mixing with fruit juices, soda, or other cocktails or for sipping over ice.
How is Cruzan Coconut Rum made?
Cruzan Coconut Rum is made from high-quality molasses fermented and distilled in copper column stills. The rum is then aged in American oak barrels for up to two years, giving it a rich and complex flavor.
To create the coconut flavor, Cruzan infuses the rum with natural coconut extract derived from fresh coconuts. The extract adds a subtle sweetness and aroma to the rum without overpowering its original character.
What are some cocktails you can make with Cruzan Coconut Rum?
Cruzan Coconut Rum is a versatile ingredient used to make various delicious and refreshing cocktails. Here are some examples:
- Cruzan Piña Colada: Blend 2 oz of Cruzan Coconut Rum, 2 oz of pineapple juice, and 1 oz of cream of coconut with ice until smooth. Pour into a tall glass and garnish with a pineapple wedge and a cherry.
- Cruzan Coconut Mojito: Muddle 6 mint leaves and 1 tbsp of sugar in a shaker. Add 2 oz of Cruzan Coconut Rum, 1 oz of lime juice, and ice. Shake well and strain into a highball glass filled with ice. Top with club soda and garnish with more mint leaves.
- Cruzan Coconut Daiquiri: Combine 2 oz of Cruzan Coconut Rum, 1 oz of lime juice, and 1/2 oz of simple syrup in a blender with ice. Blend until smooth and pour into a coupe glass. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cruzan Coconut Rum is a flavored rum that has a natural coconut taste and aroma. It is perfect for making tropical drinks like piña coladas, daiquiris, or mojitos. You can also mix Cruzan Coconut Rum with pineapple, orange, cranberry, or soda water for a refreshing and simple drink.
What is Cruzan Black Strap Rum?
Cruzan Black Strap Rum is a dark rum by Cruzan Rum Distillery in the US Virgin Islands. It is made from molasses and aged in charred oak barrels for at least two years. The name “black strap” refers to the type of molasses used, the darkest and thickest grade available.
How does Cruzan Black Strap Rum taste?
Cruzan Black Strap Rum has a rich and complex flavor reminiscent of licorice, coffee, caramel, and vanilla. It is slightly sweet and smooth, with a smoky and spicy finish. It is not as heavy or bitter as some dark rums, making it more versatile and easy to drink.
How to drink Cruzan Black Strap Rum?
Cruzan Black Strap Rum can be enjoyed in many ways. For a refreshing drink, you can sip it neat or on the rocks or mix it with cola, ginger beer, or lemonade. You can also use it to make classic cocktails like the Dark and Stormy, the Mai Tai, or the Rum Old Fashioned. Cruzan Black Strap Rum is also great for cooking and baking, adding a rich and deep flavor to sauces, marinades, cakes, and pies.
How to Enjoy Cruzan Black Cherry and Mango Rum
If you are looking for a smooth rum with a fruity twist, you might want to try Cruzan Black Cherry and Mango Rum. These two flavors are part of the Cruzan Flavored Rums line, which features rums infused with natural flavors from the island of St. Croix. In this blog post, I will show you how to make some delicious cocktails with these rums and share some tips on how to enjoy them.
What is Cruzan Black Cherry Rum?
Cruzan Black Cherry Rum is a rum with fresh cherries’ unmistakable sweet and tart flavor. It has a rich red color, a smooth finish, making it perfect for mixing with cola, lemonade, or other mixers. Cruzan Black Cherry Rum is made with natural cherry flavor and aged rum from St. Croix, where the Nelthropp family has produced rum since 1760.
What is Cruzan Mango Rum?
Cruzan Mango Rum is a rum with the tropical flavor of ripe mangoes. It has a bright yellow color and a refreshing taste, making it ideal for mixing with juice, soda, or other mixers. Cruzan Mango Rum is made with natural mango flavor and aged rum from St. Croix, where the rum is distilled using a five-column process that ensures a clean and smooth product.
How to Make Cocktails with Cruzan Black Cherry and Mango Rum
There are many ways to enjoy Cruzan Black Cherry and Mango Rum, but here are some simple and tasty recipes you can try at home.
Cruzan Black Cherry Rum & Cola
This is a classic combination that never fails to please. All you need is:
- 1 part Cruzan Black Cherry Rum
- 2 parts cola
- Ice
- A lime wedge (optional)
Fill a glass with ice and pour the rum over it. Top with cola and squeeze a lime wedge if desired. Stir gently and enjoy.
Cruzan Mango Rum & Pineapple Juice
This is a tropical drink that will transport you to the Caribbean. All you need is:
- 1 part Cruzan Mango Rum
- 2 parts pineapple juice
- Ice
- A cherry (optional)
Fill a glass with ice and pour the rum over it. Top with pineapple juice and garnish with a cherry if desired. Stir gently and enjoy.
Cruzan Black Cherry Mango Daiquiri
This fruity twist on the classic daiquiri will impress your guests. All you need is:
- 1 part Cruzan Black Cherry Rum
- 1 part Cruzan Mango Rum
- 1 part lime juice
- 1/2 part simple syrup
- Ice
- A blender
Combine all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a chilled glass and enjoy.