Rum often falls under the stereotype of umbrella drinks and fruity punches, and doesn’t receive credit for the complex and rich flavor it can bring. Furthermore, most people think of Captain Morgan or the various slew of white rums when it comes to the spirit. The dark rums of the world are often being overlooked and underappreciated and we won’t stand for it.
The same way dark beers are assumed to be heavy and filling, dark rums suffer from the same assumptions. In reality, they have a rich smooth flavor that’s delicious without being overwhelming.
Dark rum is made by aging clear rum in heavily charred barrels that allow a variety of flavors to blend into the liquor. The blend sometimes referred to as the scotch of rum, is typically aged for at least two years giving it time to add depth and flavor. The dark color comes from the addition of molasses, which also boosts the flavor at the same time. You can often find flavors of caramel, vanilla, and other spices in addition to molasses in a good dark rum.
Dark rum cocktails aren’t the (painfully) sweet mixes you’ll find on a tropical vacation but rich, crisp, and flavorful. Dark rum can easily be enjoyed straight in addition to some of our favorite cocktails.
Dark ‘n Stormy
1.5 oz Gosling’s Black Rum
Ginger Beer
Garnish with a lime wedge.
Roosevelt Cocktail
1.75 oz Dark rum
.5 oz Dry vermouth
.25 oz Orange juice
.25 tsp Sugar
Top with an orange twist.
Classic Cuban Daiquiri
2 oz Dark rum
1 oz Fresh lime juice
1 oz Simple syrup
Garnish with a lime wheel.
If you haven’t already, give dark rum a chance. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the flavor and cocktail potential it has.