With a variety of styles from light to full-bodied, versatile rum is the perfect cocktail spirit. By IAN WISNIEWSKI  Able to cater for any occasion, rum is found in classic cocktails such as the daiquiri and mojito, while rum punch is an ideal solution for parties with a longer guest list. Some rums are even sophisticated enough to drink neat. The three different styles of rum are conveniently colour-coded. White rum is unaged, golden rum is medium aged, while dark rum is longer-aged and fuller-bodied. Which is best depends on what you're looking for, animated youthfulness or greater complexity. As ageing in oak casks develops an additional range of flavours, such as vanilla and crème brûlée, aged rums have generated a grown-up fan club that is spreading around the world. Thriving on a flamboyant heritage, rum has also become a totally 'now' spirit, able to entice newcomers as well as satisfy connoisseurs. As a new generation of increasingly specialised rums appears on the circuit and extends the range of choice, the only question is, where do you begin?
Matusalem Clasico For an indulgent range of favourite flavours, head for the Dominican Republic. Vanilla, creme caramel and luscious chocolate lead on the palate, before dried fruits and underlying dryness emerge, while a sustained finish combines vanilla and dark chocolate. Bacardi 8 Años An international success story, Bacardi's portfolio of rums includes the distinctive Bacardi 8 Años. Elegant and poised, the palate opens with generous fruit flavours including apricot jam, orange marmalade and juicy citrus freshness, balanced by subtle dry oak, and extending with indulgent vanilla and chocolate. Appleton Estate Extra Produced at the Appleton Estate in Jamaica and aged 12 years, this has a silky texture that releases vanilla, tiramisu, gingerbread, honey and dried fruit flavours including raisins. Becoming more luscious as the palate evolves, in conjunction with underlying dryness, this rum retains balance while also delivering depth and range. |