Types Of Rum

Rum is a spirit produced by distilling fermented sugar and water. The types of sugar used in the production of rum are cane juice, concentrated cane juice or molasses. Most rums are made from molasses and are clear once distilled. It is then placed in barrels and aged. Rums that are deep in color have caramel added to give them their deep, rich color.

Types of Rum

Light Rum, also known as clear or white, is not only light in color, but also light in flavor and body. These types are typically used in mixers and go well with fruit juices. Barbados, Cuba, Puerto Rico and Jamaica are the primary manufacturers of light rum. Mojitos, Daiquiris, and Mai Tai's are made with light rum. Some will also have flavors added to them such as coconut, pineapple or lemon which will add a twist to the cocktail you are ordering or making.

Golden Rum, sometimes referred to as amber rum, it is medium-bodied and smooth in flavor. This type is used in mixers with fruit juices and is often used in baking. Guatemala and Nicaragua produce these medium-bodied rums.

Spiced Rum can be light, gold or dark in color. This type is infused with spices and fruit to give it an earthy complexity and is often enjoyed with cola. Spiced rums are best when added to an eggnog recipe and compliment apple cider during the fall season.

Dark Rum has a rich, full body and can be used for a mixer. They are generally consumed and are at their best when served straight up. The Dominican Republic, Guyana, Haiti and Venezuela are several manufacturers specializing in dark rums.

The Caribbean is not the only manufacturer of rums. The United States, Asia and Australia also produce rum which are usually light or golden. Oddly enough, Canada is also included in the industry, purchasing rum for over 300 years from the Caribbean. It is then aged for five years and referred to as Screech by Canadian locals.

Rum is a spirit which can be consumed on its own or paired with just about any mixer or fruit juice available. Amateur drinkers should start off in the world of light rum to get their palate wet and slowly move their way into the world of spiced and dark rum .