The 3 Types of Rum and Why You Need Them

There are three main types of rum, all unique from each other. They have different tastes and make different drinks. This is why you need each type.

Champagne is associated with France, Whiskey is associated with Scotland, and Rum is associated with the Navy and the sea. That means rum is not defined by any one country or culture but is more universal in its style, and its appeal.

There are many types of rum and classifying them can be challenging. In this article, you will read about 3 broad types of rum and how you may like to drink them. 

1. White Rum - Think Cocktails

Rum is made from sugar cane. The sugar cane is used to make molasses and then that is used to make rum. White rum tends to be distilled and aged less than dark rums.

For example, some white rums may only take a few months whereas others may taker longer, perhaps up to a year. It depends on where the rum is made. It is interesting to know that in some countries, like Venezuela, the government requires distillers to age the rum at least 2 years.

Distillers then filter the rum using charcoal so that it can maintain its clearer color. So not all white rums are young rums but they are on the younger end of the age spectrum. They are lighter and have a more simple palate, and work great with Mojitos and numerous other cocktails. 

2. Dark Rum - If It’s Aged, Try It Neat

Most likely you are already aware that spirits tend to darken in color with age. Rum follows that general principle. However, there are other factors that affect the color of the rum. 

For example, many dark rums have caramel added. This makes the rum a sort of golden color. So the color is also dependent on the additive, not just the age. 

As the rum is aged, it takes on the flavor and color from the barrel it is distilled in and this is what gives it more complex layers of flavor. Some would say that well-aged rum, like 15 years old, is to be enjoyed for its own flavor. Like Pusser's Aged 15 Years, for example, try it neat or over ice.

3. Spiced Rum - Classic Cuba Libre 

As you have learned, white and dark rums are not necessarily young and aged rums. It depends on other factors. Spiced rum is a little easier to work out exactly what flavors you are getting.

The flavor is developed by adding spices like cinnamon, clove, anise, and vanilla. The spirit absorbs the flavors from these intense spices. Spiced rum is used in some cocktails but lots of people love to drink spiced rum just with coke, so this is your classic rum and coke, or add some lime and you’ve got a Cuba Libre. 

Different Types of Rum - Same Spirit

In this article, you have read about 3 types of rum. They can look different, taste different, and offer a different experience but basically come from the same sugar cane.

The key is the age duration and if other things are added like caramel and spices. There are other differences in the distilling process but this is a great start to your foundation of knowledge in the wonders of rum.