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If you’re looking to explore different types of rum, you’re in for a treat! From the bold flavors of Demerara Rum to the deep, rich kick of Dark Rum, there’s a whole spectrum of tastes waiting for you. This guide will open up a whole new world of mixing and sipping that’ll make you a rum expert in no time.
Different types of rum bring their own vibe to the table. Want something light and crisp for a mojito? Go for a White Rum. Looking for a rich, caramel-y flavor to sip on? Dark Rum’s got you covered.
And did you know that rum does not have to be expensive? We have collections of the best rums under $100 and even more budget-friendly options with the best rums under $50. We also have rum-themed subscription boxes that include rare and high-end brands.
If you’ve never had rum types explained in a way that makes sense, then this guide is exactly what you need.
Different Types of Rum Explained: From White to Dark and Everything in Between
There are tons of different types of rum out there, each with its own unique flavor profile. From the crispness of White Rum to the rich, complex notes of Dark Rum, you'll find something for every taste. Here's a quick list to get you started:
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White Rum
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Dark Rum
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Demerara Rum
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Gold Rum
In this section, we’ll go into the details of these rums, plus a few more, so you can pick the perfect bottle for whatever mood you're in or cocktail you’re crafting. Let's break it down and make your rum decision an easy one!
White Rum
White Rum might sound simple, but it’s actually one of the trickiest types of rum out there! Sure, it’s clear, but don’t let that fool you–the flavor can vary a lot more than you’d expect.
Some White Rums are light and easy, while others bring a bit more depth and complexity. From rum that’s aged and then stripped of its color to fresh, vibrant varieties, White Rum is ready to mix things up.
The difference comes from the distillation process. Some White Rums use modern distillation techniques that produce a super clean and neutral spirit, while others come from a more traditional pot still, bringing out a richer flavor.
Then there's aging. Many distillers age White Rum and then filter it to remove its color, leaving you with that pristine clarity.
However, some brands may still have a tiny hint of gold or amber, offering a bit more complexity without losing that refreshing clarity. And don’t be surprised if you spot a White Rum that gives you a slight bite or a hint of sweetness–that’s the product of different aging techniques or blends.
If you’re looking to shake up your cocktails, this is your rum. It’s all about finding the right one for the drink you want to create. It’s the perfect canvas for all kinds of flavors, and there's always a new White Rum out there to discover and play around with!
Gold Rum
Gold Rum is like White Rum's older, more sophisticated sibling. It’s got all the versatility, but with an extra layer of depth and flavor that makes it perfect for sipping or turning any cocktail into a masterpiece.
Its flavor comes from the aging process. Gold Rum gets its color and added character from spending time in wooden barrels, usually oak. This aging gives the rum subtle flavors of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of spice, without being as heavy as Dark Rum, which is another rum type we talk about in this guide.
Gold Rum’s flavor profile can vary depending on its aging process and the barrels in which it has been aged. Some Gold Rums lean into a light sweetness, while others bring out rich, oak-driven flavors that add a whole new dimension.
It’s often fuller than White Rum, but still crisp enough to mix into refreshing cocktails like Rum Punch, a classic Daiquiri, or even just paired with a splash of cola for a laid-back sip.
What makes Gold Rum such a gem is its perfect balance. It’s not too heavy, but it definitely brings something special that White Rum just can’t match.
Want a Mojito with a bit more personality? Gold Rum’s got you. Or maybe you're mixing up a tropical drink? It adds that rich layer of warmth and character that takes your cocktails to the next level.
If you're looking to start your rum journey with a Gold Rum, we recommend giving Blackwell Jamaican Black Gold Rum a try.
Dark Rum
Dark Rum is the bold, unapologetic member of the rum family. It's got that deep, intense flavor that makes you sit up and take notice. Think of it as the rum that's been around the block–aged longer, with a serious flavor profile that's not afraid to show off.
From hints of caramel and molasses to spicy, smoky notes (thanks to those charred oak barrels), Dark Rum is all about complexity and depth. It's one of the best sipping rums you can find, and it also works great in cocktails like a Dark 'n' Stormy or a Mai Tai, bringing that extra punch and richness to the mix.
As Dark Rum ages in those wooden barrels, it picks up tannins, which is what gives it that dry, slightly astringent feeling on your tongue. This is a big part of what sets Dark Rum apart from its lighter cousins.
If you want something that really makes a statement in your cocktail, Dark Rum’s your go-to. It’s got that full-bodied, bold vibe that makes everything else seem a little plain.
Navy Rum
Navy Rum is a true legend in the rum world, rich in history and flavor. This rum has been associated with sailors and the British Navy for centuries, and its reputation still stands strong today.
Back in the day, sailors in the British Navy had a daily rum ration, and that tradition lasted over 300 years until Black Tot Day, which marked the end of the naval rum ration in 1970.
Navy Rum is notorious for its high proof and robust flavor, often with a rich blend of dark, molasses-heavy sweetness and a deep, spicy kick. Sometimes even overproof, it’s usually made from a blend of rums sourced from various Caribbean islands and aged to bring out those complex flavors.
Some of the more adventurous bottles may even have a smoky, charred edge, thanks to the barrels they age in.
If you're looking for a rum with history, strength, and complexity, Navy Rum is the one to go for. It’s not just a drink, it’s a connection to the past. And if you want to dive into this tradition, Black Tot rum, released to commemorate Black Tot Day, is an excellent way to get a taste of this iconic rum style.
Spiced Rum
Spiced Rum is the wild child of the rum world. It’s got personality, flair, and just the right amount of swagger. Unlike its pure rum cousins, distillers infuse Spiced Rum with a variety of spices and flavors–cinnamon, vanilla, clove, nutmeg, and sometimes even citrus or orange peel. It’s rum, but with a whole new level of kick.
This rum style is perfect for those who want more than the traditional rum experience. The added spices give it a warm, cozy vibe that makes it perfect for sipping on cold nights or mixing into your favorite cocktails. The sweet and spicy combo makes it dangerously smooth, turning every sip into an adventure!
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, we recommend sipping a good Spiced Rum neat. The spices come forward in a whole new way, giving you a deeper taste of everything that makes this rum so unique.
Spiced Rum often has a higher sweetness level than regular rum, thanks to the added flavorings, but it’s still got that rum base that shines through. Most Spiced Rums age for a few years before distillers add spice infusions, which means they have a bit of maturity to balance out the sweetness.
The flavor profiles can vary widely–some are on the lighter side with a touch of vanilla and caramel, while others can be bold with deep cinnamon, clove, or even a hint of heat from peppercorns.
English Rum
English Rum isn’t just a type of rum–it’s got a story. Rooted in England’s long history of rum trade and exploration, this rum brings together tradition and craftsmanship.
While often produced in the Caribbean, it's brought back to England for blending, refining, and aging. This rum style has a well-rounded character, with a balanced taste that makes it ideal for sipping or mixing into cocktails.
Expect notes of molasses and caramel, paired with a rich, slightly oaky finish from its barrel-aging process. It’s not overly heavy or sweet, but instead strikes a perfect harmony between the two.
You can generally expect rums from Barbados (Mount Gay), Jamaica (Appleton), St. Lucia (Chairman’s Reserve), and Guyana (El Dorado) to follow the traditional English-style rum profile.
Demerara Rum
Demerara Rum is one of the more intriguing types of rum out there. It gets its name from the Demerara River, which flows through the region of Demerara in Guyana, South America. The river and the surrounding area have a long history of sugarcane cultivation.
This rum is molasses-based, giving it a deep, distinctive flavor that’s both sweet and earthy, with a hint of smokiness. It’s the kind of rum that tells a story in every sip, packed with layers of flavor you won’t find in your average bottle.
Demerara Rum is often darker in color, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and toffee. The combination of sweetness and slight smokiness makes it perfect for sipping on its own or using in cocktails like a Rum Old Fashioned or a classic Rum Punch.
It’s a rum that brings something extra to the table, so if you’re looking for a rum with a bit of a punch in the flavor department, Demerara should be at the top of your list.
Spanish Rum
Spanish Rums are the party starters of the rum world! They're packed with flair, history, and the perfect balance of flavors that'll make you want to sip and savor every drop.
These rums often have a lighter profile compared to their darker, more intense cousins, making them incredibly versatile. Expect notes of caramel, vanilla, and hints of tropical fruits–perfect for adding a touch of richness to your cocktails or sipping casually on a warm evening.
If you want a rum that’s easy to love, Spanish Rums are the way to go. Plus, some of them are aged using the Solera aging method, adding extra complexity and depth to the flavor profile. It’s the kind of rum you’ll want to keep coming back to for more!
You can expect rums from Nicaragua (Flor de Caña), Panama (Ron Abuelo), Puerto Rico (Don Q), and Trinidad (Angostura) to be classified as Spanish-style rums.
Solera Rum
Solera rum isn’t exactly a type of rum. It's more of an aging technique that gives the rum a unique and complex flavor profile. While it’s not a distinct category on its own, the Solera method has become incredibly popular, especially in Spanish rums, and for good reason.
The method involves blending rums of different ages over time, with the oldest rum in the "solera" (or bottom barrel) used to mix into the younger rums above it. This creates a rum that’s consistently rich and flavorful, with a depth and complexity that you just can’t find in single-age rums.
What sets Solera rums apart is how the flavors evolve and meld together. You might taste hints of caramel, vanilla, dried fruit, and spice–each sip revealing a new layer. This method of aging results in a rum that’s not just rich in taste but also consistent in flavor year after year.
If you’re thinking about trying a Solera rum, we recommend checking out the Dictador 12 Year Old Solera System Rum. It's a fantastic example of this aging technique, offering an exceptional balance of flavors that you’ll want to savor.
French or Agricole Rhum
French Rum, or as it's often called, Rhum Agricole, is a true expression of the land it comes from. Unlike traditional rum, which is made from molasses, Agricole rum is crafted from fresh sugarcane juice, giving it a distinct, grassy flavor that sets it apart.
What makes Rhum Agricole so unique is the way it captures the essence of the sugarcane. The process begins with the juice pressed straight from the cane and fermented, then distilled to retain its vibrant, fresh flavors.
This gives it a more earthy, vegetal taste that’s a far cry from the sweeter, molasses-based rums. It’s a rum that’s alive with the flavor of the land it comes from–perfect for those looking to explore a rum that has character and complexity.
You'll find Rhum Agricole primarily produced in the French Caribbean, especially in Martinique and Guadeloupe. These rums often have an almost grassy, herbaceous edge, with hints of citrus and sometimes a slight smoky flavor, making them perfect for sipping neat or mixing into refreshing cocktails like the Ti' Punch.
An Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) governs the vast majority of Rhum Agricole produced in Martinique, which means the creation of these rums has to happen in a specific way. While all these rums must meet certain standards, the AOC guidelines are open enough to allow each brand to infuse its own personality into the rum.
If you're after a rum that’s a little bolder, a little more adventurous, French Rum is definitely worth checking out. It's the kind of rum that speaks to the very heart of its origins, making every sip a journey into the tropical islands where it’s made.
Ready to Dive Into the World of Rum?
As you can tell, there are lots of different types of rum, each with its own unique twist, flavor profile, and backstory. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fresh, rich and spicy, or bold and complex, there’s a rum for every occasion and every taste.
From the clean, crisp bite of White Rum to the deep, smoky notes of Dark Rum, or the rich, molasses-forward Demerara Rum, the rum world is a playground for the adventurous.
Now that you're an expert on the different types of rum, it’s time to grab a bottle and start tasting. Better yet, kick back, relax, and order one from Flaviar online to have it delivered straight to your door!
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