When it comes to hard liquor there are so many different kinds to choose from. The well-known alcohols are vodka, tequila, whiskey, and rum. Each liquor has its unique flavor and way of being made. One of our favorite spring and summer alcohols is white rum.
White rum has all the brown sugar and butterscotch notes of dark rum, but with a clear color. Spiced rum is a rum blend with added spices and vanilla.
Some of the best rum cocktails, or tiki drinks, include mojitos, daiquiris, and Pina Coladas. These drinks incorporate tropical fruits like mango and coconut and pair great with fruity mixers.
We're breaking down what white rum is and the best white rum to have on hand this summer.
How is White Rum Made?
White rum is also known as silver rum or light rum, due to its clear color. The rum is made mostly from molasses however the light color is due to the fact it is aged in stainless steel tanks or plain oak casks.
White rum is typically aged about one year but can be aged for a few years. The distillation period for white rum is less than for dark rum.
The History of White Rum
Rum comes from the French word, Rhum. French colonized territories Martinique and the Caribbean Islands are where the word originated. Rhum is short for Rhum Agricole which is considered a sub-classification of rum. The main difference between this rum and others is that it must be distilled from sugarcane juice.
The Cuba Libre is a popular white rum drink that was invented to celebrate the end of the Spanish American War. The drink is made of white rum, coca-cola, gin, bitters, and lime.
If you're looking for the best white rum brands, you're in luck. Several brands offer unique flavor profiles to suit your palate. Here are the best white rums to drink out on the town or to order directly to your door with Drizly.
1. Bacardi Superior White Rum
Bacardi
This rum from Puerto Rico is known for great taste, while also being budget-friendly. The rum is aged in white oak barrels, giving it a smooth taste.
2. The Real McCoy 3-Year-Aged
Real McCoy Spirits
This rum is loved by bartenders and patrons alike. It's made by the famous Foursquare Distillery in Barbados. This rum mixes well in any cocktail and is incredibly smooth.
3. Havana Club Anejo Blanco
The Real Havana Club
This rum has strong fruity aromas as well as hints of vanilla and oak.
4. Diplomatico Planas
Diplomatico
You can expect a 6-year-old bottle of rum when your purchase this aged rum. It's perfect to sip neat or on the rocks.
5. Plantation 3 Stars
Liquidstories.de
This Jamaican rum is a blend of two to three year old rum that is un-aged. The rum is a blend of three countries: Jamaica, Trinidad, and Barbados.
6. Don Q Cristal
Arthur Cantina
This Puerto Rican rum has been aged in American oak barrels, giving it a smoother and refined taste.
7. Flor De Cana 4-Year Extra Seco
London Unattached
This variety has notes of orange, white chocolate, and vanilla. There's no sugar added, making it a dry rum.
8. Wray and Nephew White Overproof Rum
Fletcher Drinks
This white alcohol has an extremely high ABV of 63%. Most rums hover around 40%. It's one of the most popular rums in Jamaica.
