Rum is one of those spirits with a character that goes beyond the label. Made by fermenting sugarcane products such as molasses and sugarcane juice, it’s then distilled and aged to develop its colour, aroma and flavour. Whether you prefer something bright and lightly sweet or deeper notes of oak, spice and dried fruit, there’s a style to match.

In the glass, rum can range from crisp and tropical to rich and warming. Many expressions show hints of vanilla, caramel and toasted oak, while darker varieties may add flavours like molasses, cocoa, nutmeg and cinnamon. Age plays a big part too: younger rums often feel lively and fruity, whereas older bottles tend to be smoother, with more rounded complexity.

Rum is also incredibly versatile. Enjoy it neat to appreciate the nuance, use it in classic cocktails such as Mojitos and Daiquiris, or try it with cola and citrus for an easy, refreshing serve. If you’re building a home bar, exploring different rum styles is a great way to expand your go to drinks.