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Rum is distilled from a mash of sugarcane products, such as molasses. Accordingly, most rums are imported from countries where sugarcane is a major crop, such as Barbados or Jamaica. Due to its origin from sugarcane, most rum has a touch of sweetness and blends well with fruit juices; premium rums can also be consumed straight. It is distilled to approximately 80 proof or higher (flavored or spiced rums may be lower).
Know the Label
These terms commonly appear on rum labels. For more information, please ask the staff at your Virginia ABC store.
Gold
Amber or gold rum has typically been aged in charred oak barrels and not filtered for color. It is fruitier than black rum, and stronger and more complex than white rum.
Cachaça is a Brazilian spirit distilled from fresh sugarcane juice, rather than molasses. In 2013, the U.S. government formally recognized cachaça as a type of rum and a distinctive product of Brazil, bottled at not less than 80 degrees proof. Its aroma and taste have been described as fruitier, greener and more tequila-like than that of rum. It is the base spirit of the Brazilian national cocktail, the Caipirinha.
Dark
Black or dark rum is made from molasses and usually aged longer than other types of rums, usually in charred oak barrels. Its color derives from molasses and the aging process (although some brands may add caramel coloring). It tends to have a stronger molasses flavor. This rum is popular in cooking.
Light
Silver
Navy rum is a blend of aged and unaged rums, usually dark. “Navy strength” refers to a proof of 100 or higher, as traditionally required in the British navy for the daily rum ration.
Select
Estate
Premium or select rums have been aged and, like cognacs or tequilas, may be designated as "XO" or "anejo." These rums may also be referred to as "estate" or "handcrafted," due to the care taken in the blending or distilling process. These black and amber rums are generally consumed straight.
Cocktail Conversation
Cuban rum has not been imported into the United States for some time, but as diplomatic relations become normalized, that may change. Currently we have no time-frame for selling rum produced in Cuba, but at some point in the future the spirit could be seen again on Virginia ABC store shelves. As with other former Spanish colonies, such as Puerto Rico, Cuba predominantly manufactures amber rums.
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