Rum

White rum is often lighter and fresher, making it particularly useful in cocktails, while aged rum can develop richer flavours from time in oak. Jamaican rum is often known for bold, fruity and aromatic character, while other producers may focus on cleaner, softer or more polished styles. Spiced rum adds botanicals and spices for a different expression again.

For cocktails such as a Daiquiri or Mojito, lighter and more vibrant rums often work best. Richer aged rums suit drinks such as an Old Fashioned or can be enjoyed neat. More characterful styles, particularly those with pronounced fruit, spice or fermentation character, can add real personality to mixed drinks as well as being interesting on their own.

Colour alone does not tell you everything about a rum. A dark rum is not automatically older or richer, and a pale rum is not necessarily simple. Ageing, filtration, blending and production methods all affect the final style. Looking at the producer, origin and method usually gives a much better idea of what to expect.