White Rum and Dark Rum may not look that different, but they have some significant variations in terms of taste and uses. Find out all the details you need to know about the differences between dark and white rum in this easy-to-follow guide!
What is Rum?
Rum is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented sugarcane juice or molasses and distilled into a clear liquid. Depending on the type of rum, it can range in color from clear to golden to dark brown. Commonly enjoyed mixed with other drinks like cola or as part of cocktails, rums vary in flavor, aroma and intensity depending on their origins and aging process.
Different Types of Rum – Light, Dark & Spiced
Rum can be classified into three main types: light rum, dark rum, and spiced rum. Light rums are typically aged for a brief time in stainless steel tanks before being filtered through charcoal to reduce the color and flavor. Dark rums are aged longer in wooden barrels and have a more robust flavor profile of caramel, molasses, spices, and oak. Spiced rums contain flavored additives like cinnamon, nutmeg, rosemary or pineapple which contribute unusual notes to the concoction.
How the Aging Process Impacts Flavor
As already mentioned, the amount of aging a rum undergoes directly impacts its flavor. A dark rum spends longer in oak barrels, which imparts an array of flavors like caramel, molasses, spices and oak. This aging process also breaks down the active ingredients in the alcohol, mellowing out harsher notes. Conversely, light rums aren’t aged very long (if at all) so they have a much cleaner and sweet flavor profile with no noticeable after taste.
The Taste and Smell of White rum vs Dark rum
White rum is usually smooth on the palate and has a mellow flavor with hints of citrus and other subtle, fruity flavors as well as a smoother smell. Dark rums, on the other hand, are richer with more intense and complex flavors of caramel, molasses, vanilla, tobacco and brown spices. Their aroma is much stronger than that of light rum and often has an intense sweet smell.
Popular Cocktail Recipes Featuring Each Type of Rum
Whether you prefer dark or white rum, there are plenty of cocktails featuring each type. Some popular ones featuring dark rum include the Hurricane, Mai Tai, and Dark and Stormy. Popular cocktails featuring white rum include the Daiquiri, Mojito, and Pina Colada. With these classic recipes in your back pocket, you can easily enjoy your preferred type of rum.