Paul Kushner
Jamaican rum is a type of rum that is widely recognized for its unique flavor and character. It is made using sugarcane molasses and is distilled in pot stills, which gives it a distinctive taste that is both rich and complex. Jamaican rum is known for its bold flavors, which are often described as being fruity, spicy, and aromatic.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
If you are someone who enjoys exploring new flavors and trying out different types of cocktails, then Jamaican rum is definitely worth checking out. Whether you are a seasoned mixologist or a casual drinker, there are plenty of recipes that you can experiment with using Jamaican rum. From classic cocktails like the Mai Tai and the Dark and Stormy to more modern creations like the Jamaican Mule and the Kingston Negroni, there is no shortage of delicious drinks that you can make with this versatile spirit.
Appleton Estate
Appleton Estate offers rums with a beautiful amber color in several varieties. Their signature aged rum sits for four years, but they also provide spirits aged for 21 years! Fruity notes characterize the aroma with hints of peach and apricot. Rums that have been aged longer express some spicy elements as well.
Hampden Estate
From overproof white rum perfect for cocktails to single cask rums for sipping straight, Hampden Estate has been offering fine spirits since 1753. Five key elements have brought success to the brand, including using fresh spring water, aging in a tropical climate, and never putting additives in its rum. These aged rums have a touch of smokiness to the fruit-forward flavor of the spirits.
Wray & Nephew
Wray & Nephew is a brand with over two hundred years of history and an iconic spirit synonymous with Jamaican rum. The overproof white can be found all around the island and is among the most popular among locals. Despite the high proof, this rum expresses subtle notes like banana and pineapple, creating a complexly flavored overproof rum.
Rum-Bar Rum
From Worthy Park Estate, Rum-Bar Rum provides several types of rum from sugar cane grown on the property. This spirit’s name is inspired by the small but colorful bars across Jamaica, where people gather to drink and rest. Rum-Bar sells light and dark rum and even rum cream if you prefer a rich and velvety spirit.
Myers’s Rum
Myer’s Rum started with its original dark rum and introduced a white rum later. Both are great additions to cocktails for their complex flavor notes. The dark rum has a buttery mouthfeel paired with tobacco and honey elements, as well as a strong chocolatey finish. For a simple mixed drink, try this rum with ginger beer.
Blackwell Rum
Aged only two years, Blackwell Rum mellows but doesn’t take on the woody tones of other aged rums. The aging process also produces this spirit’s deep amber color. Flavors present on the palate include vanilla caramel, sweet toasted marshmallow, and a spicy finish. Add depth to cocktail recipes, or drink this dark rum neat for the best experience.
Hamilton Rum
Hamilton Rum is another spirit with a deep amber color. This rum ages for five years and expresses rich tasting notes expected from a Demerara rum. Hints of sweetness from dark fruit and smoky flavors combine in this complex rum. Add this distinct rum to any cocktail, and you’ll taste the difference.
Monymusk Rum
With an option for every occasion, Monymusk Rum has a great variety of rum available. The spirits are produced at one of three distilleries operated by the brand. Two types of fermentation are utilized at the distilleries. For their light rums, controlled fermentation is used, while dark rum fermentation is done spontaneously, creating distinctly different flavors in the spirits.
Worthy Park
Worthy Park produces many spirits at their Jamaican estate. From bold rum aged in port barrels with fruity and licorice notes to specially blended rums using only the best spirits, this brand produces high-quality options with lots of character. For a unique experience, try their sherry rum with distinct peppery notes.
Smith & Cross
Smith & Cross is a famous rum made in the traditional Jamaican method, although it has been produced in London since 1788, making it one of England's oldest rum producers. Smith & Cross rum contains exclusively Wedderburn and Plummer pot still distillates that yield their famous tasting notes of spice and exotic fruit. You can enjoy this Navy strength rum sipped on ice to fully experience its complexity, but it also tastes great in classic rum cocktails and tropical drinks.
