Demerara rums are a type of rum that originated in Guyana, a small country located on the northern coast of South America. These rums are made from molasses, a byproduct of sugar production, which is then distilled and aged in oak barrels. The unique climate and soil of Guyana, along with the traditional distillation methods used by local producers, give demerara rums their distinctive flavor profile.
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If you’re a fan of rum, you might want to give demerara rums a try. They’re known for their rich, complex flavors, which can include notes of caramel, toffee, and dark chocolate. Some varieties also have a smoky, spicy finish that sets them apart from other types of rum. Demerara rums are often enjoyed on their own, sipped slowly to savor the flavors, but they can also be used in cocktails to add depth and complexity to the drink. So, whether you’re a rum connoisseur or just looking to try something new, demerara rums are definitely worth exploring.
El Dorado 12-Year Rum
El Dorado 12-year rum is marketed as fine demerara rum, and the brand’s classy packaging reflects that. The flavor of this rum has a rich taste of tropical fruit and spices on the nose, with hints of honey and dark sugar, with an elegant and dry finish. This rum would be a good choice for a rum old-fashioned cocktail!
O.V.D. Demerara Rum
Though this is a Scottish brand, it has been around since the late 1800s and has links to the flourishing cargo business of the time. This rum is distilled in wooden barrels, which gives it that dark, rich color. The flavor has rich and fruity notes with a toffee flavor and creamy finish. This rum would make a great rum chaplin cocktail!
Skipper Demerara Rum
This rum is molasses-based, so it has a slightly sweeter flavor while maintaining its richness. This brand is known for its excellence. In 2012, this rum won an award at the Rum Masters in the category for Dark Rum aged up to seven years.
El Dorado 21-Year-Old Special Reserve
Similar to its 12-year rum, the packaging and presentation of this rum evoke elegance and class. The 21-year-old version is smooth and has cognac-type notes, due to the aging process in a Versailles Single Wooden Pot Still. It also has a full body with notes of toffee, tobacco, and dark spices. It is an enjoyable rum to drink on its own, on the rocks!
Hamilton Demerara Rum Guyana
This rum is aged five years and is bottled at 86 proof which helps brings the full flavor of a traditional demerara rum. It is perfect for any cocktail that calls for this type of rum because the flavors are in line with a classic demerara. It has notes of smoky wood, fruit, burnt cane, and brown spice.Â
Lemon Hart 1804 Demerara Rum
Lemon Hart is a renowned rum brand, with many of its products earning accolades and praise from the rum world. The 1804 is their original product, and it is a demerara rum with a bold and rich flavor with a smooth finish. The flavor profile includes notes of tropical spices, dark sugars, vanilla, caramel, oak, and dark honey.
Diamond Reserve Demerara Dark Rum
Diamond Reserve Demerara is made by the original demerara company Demerara Distillers Limited. Since the late 1700s, the brand has been a frontrunner in demerara production. This Diamond Reserve Dark has subtle woody hints, notes of dark spices, and an aftertaste of dark chocolate.