Rum
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Centenario 25y Gran Reserva Incl. Box
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Centenario 25y Gran Reserva Incl. Box
In stock
Centenario 25y Gran Reserva is a Costa Rican rum shaped by blending and long maturation. It brings together rums aged from 6 to 25 years in a system of continuous ageing, giving the glass a sense of maturity while still keeping a lively fruit-driven side.
The rum is aged in American white oak casks that previously held Scotch whisky. That detail matters here, because the profile is not simply sweet and round; it carries dry wood, spice and a fresh fruit note that give it more definition. At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we would point out to someone looking for a mature rum with a composed, drier finish.
It is a well-appreciated Centenario release, especially for drinkers who enjoy aged rum with fruit, spice and wood in a calm, polished (…)Centenario 20y Fundacion Tube Incl.
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Centenario 20y Fundacion Tube Incl.
In stock
Centenario 20y Fundacion is a Costa Rican rum with a direct link to the history of the brand. It was created in 2005 to mark Centenario's 20th anniversary, so the name is more than a number on the label; it reflects the occasion for which this rum was composed.
The blend brings together rums aged from 6 to 20 years, matured continuously through a solera system. That gives it a polished, rounded style, with the influence of American white oak adding structure without pushing the fruit into the background.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of rum we like to introduce to customers looking for something soft, elegant and quietly layered. Fresh fruit, subtle vanilla, citrus and a light woody touch make it expressive without becoming heavy.
Centenario 12y Gran Legado
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Centenario 12y Gran Legado
In stock
Centenario 12y Gran Legado is a Costa Rican rum shaped by maturation, blending and a gently fruit-led style. Made from sugar cane juice and distilled using multicolumn distillation, it also draws on the solera system to form its final composition.
A key part of its identity is maturation in American white oak casks that previously held Scotch whisky. That detail gives the rum a distinct place within Centenario's range, while staying close to the brand's traditional ageing approach.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a 12-year-old rum for those who enjoy a soft, lightly sweet profile with red fruit, vanilla and a measured touch of wood. It has enough character to be interesting, while remaining smooth and easy to spend time with.
The aroma (…)Barcelo Imperial 40y Blend
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Barcelo Imperial 40y Blend
Only 3 left in stock!
Barcelo Imperial 40y Blend is a Dominican Republic rum built around maturity, blending and cask influence. The name immediately points to a more developed style, where time and composition matter as much as the raw character of the spirit.
Its solera system gives the rum a layered identity, while bourbon barrel maturation supports the clear presence of wood, spice and fruit in the profile. Traditional column distillation keeps the style composed, with sweetness playing a supporting role rather than taking over.
Within the rum selection at Drankenshop Broekmans, this Barcelo is best understood as a mature Dominican expression with structure and depth. At 43% alcohol, it has a little more presence than many standard rums, while remaining focused on a polished, (…)Botran Sistema 18 Solera Anejo Solera 1893
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Botran Sistema 18 Solera Anejo Solera 1893
Temporarily sold out
Expected: 01/11/2026Botran Sistema 18 Solera Anejo Solera 1893 is a Guatemalan rum built around sugar cane honey and shaped through a solera system. That combination gives it a clear sense of style: mature in tone, with the emphasis placed more on wood, spice and fruit than on overt sweetness.
Its multicolumn distilling style and 40% alcohol strength keep the presentation recognisable, while the name Sistema 18 Solera Anejo Solera 1893 gives this Botran a more composed, carefully framed identity. The sweetness is there, but it plays a supporting role behind the drier, warmer elements.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of rum we would point out to customers looking beyond the most obvious rum origins and wanting to explore Guatemala through a profile centred on cask (…)Cartavio Reserva 8y
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Cartavio Reserva 8y
Only 2 left in stock!
Cartavio Reserva 8y is a Peruvian molasses rum built around maturation, fruit and oak rather than sheer intensity. Made by multicolumn distillation and aged through a solera system, it presents a polished style in which the influence of American Oak is clearly part of the story.
The character leans toward noticeable wood and fruit, with a lighter thread of spice and sweetness in support. At 40% alcohol, it stays measured and approachable, allowing the maturation style to come through without becoming heavy.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see Cartavio Reserva 8y as a good introduction to Peruvian solera rum: a rum where American oak, molasses-based depth and a rounded profile come together in a calm, well-defined way.
The flavour profile is led by (…)Centenario 20y + 2 Glasses
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Centenario 20y + 2 Glasses
In stock
Centenario 20y + 2 Glasses is a Costa Rican rum presented as a neatly finished gift pack with two glasses. The 20-year indication gives the bottle a sense of maturity, while the presentation makes it feel ready for sharing rather than simply placing on a shelf.
Made from sugar cane juice and distilled in a multicolumn style, this Centenario also carries the influence of a solera system and bourbon barrel maturation. That combination points towards a composed, matured rum style without pushing it into an overly heavy direction. At Drankenshop Broekmans, it sits comfortably among rums for customers looking for a refined bottle with an approachable 40% strength.
The glasses add a pleasant serving context straight away. It is a rum gift pack that invites opening, (…)Centenario 30y Edicion Limitada Incl. Box
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Centenario 30y Edicion Limitada Incl. Box
In stock
Centenario 30y Edición Limitada is a Costa Rican rum built around the idea of time and continuity. It was created in 2011 to mark the 30th anniversary of Ron Centenario's limited editions, bringing together rums aged from 8 to 30 years.
Its maturation follows the solera system, with continuous and natural ageing in American white oak casks. That matters here, because the character is shaped less by a single age statement and more by the way different maturities are brought together in the final blend.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of rum we like to introduce to customers looking for a mature, polished sipping style. Fruit, spice and gentle wood all have their place, giving the rum depth without making it feel heavy.
The (…)Centenario 7y Anejo Especial
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Centenario 7y Anejo Especial
In stock
Centenario 7y Añejo Especial is a Costa Rican molasses rum inspired by the country's seven provinces. The seven-year indication fits that idea neatly: this is a rum with enough maturation to bring roundness and calm sweetness, while still keeping its fruit-driven side clearly in view.
Made in a traditional column style and matured through a traditional ageing process, it sits in a gentle, approachable corner of aged rum. American white oak adds a woody touch and extra depth, yet the impression remains smooth, fruity and lightly sweet rather than heavy.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we place this Centenario among the rums that make aged Costa Rican rum easy to understand: honeyed, fruity, softly balanced and with a measured influence from maturation. It is (…)Dictador 10y
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Dictador 10y
In stock
Dictador 10y shows a Colombian rum style built around maturity, softness and a clear fruit-driven side. As a sugar cane honey rum, multicolumn distilled and bottled at 40%, it is shaped more by smoothness and approachability than by sheer intensity.
The 10-year age statement and solera system give the rum its sense of development. Maturation in Colombian Oak adds a gentle woody accent, present enough to frame the spirit without taking attention away from its fruitier core.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a natural choice for anyone exploring Colombian rum with a rounded, lightly spiced and fruit-led character. Additional information can be found at https://www.dictador.com/
The flavour profile is led by fruit, supported by gentle notes (…)Dictador 12y
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Dictador 12y
In stock
Dictador 12y is a Colombian rum with a clear connection to the world of sherry. Matured through the solera system and given a sherry finish, it is described in the supplied information as recalling a soft, saline manzanilla. That detail says a lot about its personality: rich and elegant, yet not driven by excessive sweetness.
The rum brings together pot still and column still distillates, with the Cuban master blender's touch keeping the style polished and expressive. At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of rum we value for its ability to show depth without becoming heavy, and for the way the sherry influence adds a fresh, slightly savoury dimension.
Fruit and spice are the main flavour directions, supported by gentle wood, light floral notes and a (…)Dictador 20y
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Dictador 20y
In stock
Dictador 20y is a Colombian rum carrying a twenty-year age statement and made using the solera system. That gives it a different perspective from a single-vintage release: the emphasis is on continuity, layered maturation and the house style Dictador wants to express in this 20-year-old bottling.
Its use of pot still and column distillation is part of what shapes the rum's identity. Rather than focusing on one narrow aspect, the profile brings together clear wood influence, spice and fruit, while sweetness remains more of a supporting element.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of mature Colombian rum we place in front of customers looking for depth without an overly sweet impression. The 40% strength keeps it approachable, while the age statement and (…)El Ron Prohibido Gran Reserva 15y
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El Ron Prohibido Gran Reserva 15y
Only 2 left in stock!
El Ron Prohibido Gran Reserva 15y is a Mexican molasses rum with a 15-year statement and maturation in bourbon barrels. It sits in a style where the fruit-driven side of the rum remains clear, while the cask adds a gentle touch rather than taking over.
Traditional column distillation and the use of a solera system shape a rounded, layered expression. The flavour profile points to fruit as the main theme, supported by light wood, mild spice and a measured sweetness.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of rum we would introduce to someone looking for a Mexican Gran Reserva with maturity and softness, but without an overly heavy oak or spice character.
The flavour profile is led by fruit, with sweetness playing a supporting role rather than (…)El Ron Prohibido Reserva 22y
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El Ron Prohibido Reserva 22y
Temporarily sold out
El Ron Prohibido Reserva 22y is a Mexican molasses-based rum built around maturity and a softer sense of depth. With its 22-year indication and solera system, it presents itself as a rum shaped by time rather than by raw intensity.
Its multicolumn distillation suggests a clean, composed base, while the available flavour profile points most clearly towards sweetness. Light fruit, spice and floral notes sit in a supporting role, and wood is not shown as the driving force of the profile.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this El Ron Prohibido stands out as a Mexican reserva for those who enjoy rum with a mellow, mature presence: 40% alcohol, solera ageing, and a style that leans more towards round sweetness than heavy oak.
The supplied flavour profile (…)Ocean's 7y Mellow
LAST PIECES17
Ocean's 7y Mellow
Not available for shipping
Ocean's 7y Mellow is a Spanish molasses-based rum with a name that says quite a lot about its direction. This is a softer style of rum, built around an easy-going sweetness rather than heavy oak or intensity.
It carries a 7-year age statement and is matured through the solera system, with American oak playing a supporting role. The multicolumn distillation also points towards a smooth, approachable character, in line with the Mellow name.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we would place this Ocean rum in front of someone looking for a gentle Spanish rum with a sweet centre and light fruity, spiced and floral touches. As these are the last bottles, it is also a bottle that may not remain part of the selection for long.
The flavour profile is led mainly (…)Opthimus 25y Porto Incl. Box
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Opthimus 25y Porto Incl. Box
Last one in stock!
Opthimus 25y Porto is a Dominican molasses rum with maturation at the heart of its identity. The name places it among the more aged expressions from Opthimus, while the Port Finish gives this release its own particular angle within the range.
It is made in a traditional column style and matured through a solera system, so the emphasis is on continuity, cask influence and careful blending rather than on raw intensity alone. The port cask finish adds an additional layer to the way this rum is positioned.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a rum for customers looking for a refined Dominican style with a clear focus on ageing and finishing. Bottled at 43%, it stays within a classic drinking strength, allowing the character of the rum and its cask treatment (…)Ron La Progresiva De Vigia
LAST PIECES26
Ron La Progresiva De Vigia
On request only
Ron La Progresiva De Vigia is a Cuban molasses rum shaped around a smooth, rounded style. Multicolumn distillation, oak cask ageing and a solera system come together here in a rum that does not carry an age statement, yet still presents a clear and composed identity.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Cuban rum we would point out to someone looking for a sweeter-leaning profile with gentle support from wood, spice, fruit and floral notes. It has a style that feels approachable without being completely light, helped by its 41% alcohol strength.
As these are the last bottles, Ron La Progresiva De Vigia is also worth noticing for anyone who has been meaning to explore this particular La Progresiva release while it is still available.
Tres Hombres Isla Bonita 1997 50cl
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Tres Hombres Isla Bonita 1997 50cl
In stock
Tres Hombres Isla Bonita 1997 is the kind of rum that stands out because of how specifically it is presented. Distilled in 1997 and bottled in 2019, it spent 22 years developing before being released at cask strength, with its 50% alcohol giving it a firm, undiluted presence.
This is a Spanish molasses rum, made through traditional column distillation and connected to a solera system. The Madeira finish adds another maturation element, while the single cask release keeps the focus on one particular parcel rather than a broad blend.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a rum for drinkers who enjoy maturity, cask influence and a bottling with a clearly defined identity. With the last bottles now indicated, it has become an even more focused choice for (…)Tres Hombres Isla Bonita 97 1l
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Tres Hombres Isla Bonita 97 1l
In stock
Tres Hombres Isla Bonita 97 is a molasses-based rum with a noticeably more serious presence in the glass. The 1997 reference gives it an older, more developed frame, while the 50% strength points to a rum with real substance rather than a soft, easygoing style.
It was made in a multicolumn distilling style and shaped through a solera system, with a Madeira finish adding another layer to the composition. That finish is part of the story, but it does not overshadow the rum's broader identity.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this Isla Bonita as a bottle for rum drinkers who enjoy a fruit-led profile with measured wood, spice and sweetness around it. With only the last bottles remaining, it has the feel of a release worth considering while it is still within (…)Tres Hombres Xxv Solera 1l
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Tres Hombres Xxv Solera 1l
In stock
Tres Hombres XXV Solera is a molasses-based rum from the Dominican Republic, bottled at a powerful 63.9% ABV. That cask strength presentation gives the rum a very direct identity: this is a bottle to approach with attention, whether tasted neat in small measures or adjusted carefully to personal preference.
Its character is shaped by 15 years of ageing, a solera system and a brandy finish. Taken together, those details point towards a rum where fruity and sweeter tones sit at the centre, supported by a modest spiced and floral lift rather than a heavy wood-driven profile.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a bottle for drinkers looking beyond standard rum releases. The single cask indication, the 1 litre format and the fact that only the last bottles (…)Tres Hombres Xxv Solera 50cl
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Tres Hombres Xxv Solera 50cl
In stock
Tres Hombres XXV Solera is a molasses-based rum from the Dominican Republic, carrying a 25-year age statement and built around a solera system. That immediately gives it a mature, composed identity rather than the feel of a straightforward young rum.
It was distilled in a multicolumn style and finished in brandy casks. Bottled at cask strength, with an ABV of 63.9%, it comes across as a rum to take seriously: powerful in presentation and best approached slowly rather than casually poured.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this Tres Hombres release stands out because several meaningful elements come together in one bottle: age, solera maturation, a brandy finish and a high natural bottling strength. With only the last bottles remaining, it has the added appeal of a (…)Zacapa 30y
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Zacapa 30y
On request only
Zacapa 30y is a Guatemalan molasses-based rum, made in a multicolumn style and matured through the solera system. Its identity is built around refinement and careful ageing rather than raw power, with the different elements coming together in a polished, composed way.
The 30-year indication gives this Zacapa a more mature position, while American oak adds a measured woody influence. The main impression is still led by fruitiness and sweetness, supported by gentle spice and a light floral accent.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we would point out to someone looking for Zacapa with a more developed and considered character. With only the last bottles remaining, it also has a more limited feel than a regular shelf release.
Zacapa Ambar 12y 1l
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Zacapa Ambar 12y 1l
In stock
Zacapa Ambar 12y is a Guatemalan rum built around sugar cane honey, the solera system and maturation in sherry and bourbon casks. That combination gives it a soft, fruit-led style with a rounded sweetness and a gentle spiced edge.
The 12 year age statement and the use of different cask types bring a sense of depth, while multicolumn distillation keeps the profile polished and clear. In its 1 litre format, it is a practical bottle for anyone who enjoys Zacapa's approachable Guatemalan rum style.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this sits nicely among rums for customers looking for sweetness and fruit without losing a composed, neatly structured character. It is a bottle that introduces the Zacapa name in a generous format and with a flavour profile that is easy to (…)
Frequently asked questions
Answers to most frequently asked questions about rum
What is rum?
Rum is a liquor made from sugar cane. It can be made via molasses (the syrupy by-product of sugar production) or via fresh sugarcane juice. After fermentation and distillation, you have the base, which is then often aged in wooden barrels. As simple as it sounds, the result is versatile: from light and fresh to deep and complex.
Europe has imposed rules and distinguishes between "rum" and "spirit drink". A drink can only be called rum if it:
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is made from sugar cane products
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is fermented and distilled
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has a maximum alcohol content of 96% at distillation
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contains at least 37.5% alcohol at bottling
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contains no flavourings or large quantities of sugar
If producers do use extra flavourings, lots of sugar or other additives, it legally becomes "spirit drink" or "spirituose" instead of rum.
What is the difference between rum and spirit drink?
In Europe, this difference has come about mainly because of stricter and clearer rules around protected drink categories. "Rum" is not a non-committal marketing term in the EU, but a legally defined category. If a product does not exactly meet that definition, it can no longer officially be called rum and must be sold as a "spirit drink", for example.
The main rules are in the European geographical indications and spirit legislation, now under Regulation (EU) 2019/787.
The heart of the problem usually lies in one of these points:
- Added flavourings
Real rum may not simply be flavoured with, say, vanilla, chocolate or other distinct flavourings if it is still to be called "rum". Once the additives fall outside the permissible limits, it legally becomes a "spirit drink". - Added sugar or sweeteners
There are limits on how much sugar or sweetening can be added without losing the "rum" category. Some producers used to add relatively large amounts of sugar to make the drink softer or fuller. Stricter controls required those products to be relabelled. - Alcohol from other raw materials
Rum must come from sugar cane products such as molasses or sugar cane juice. If neutral alcohol of other origin is added (e.g. grain alcohol), the product falls outside the definition. - Production method or strength
Minimum alcohol percentages and production methods are also set by law.
Especially in recent years, enforcement has become stricter. As a result, you see that some brands that were sold as rum for years suddenly got "spirit drink", "spiced spirit drink" or "rum-based spirit drink" on the label.
A well-known example are certain "spiced rums". Many consumers still call them rum, but legally some of them cannot be called rum in Europe because they are too strongly flavoured or sweetened.
That does not necessarily mean the quality is worse - just that the product no longer fits within the strict EU definition of rum. Some enthusiasts actually find these stricter rules positive, as it makes it clearer what is pure rum and what is a flavoured variety.
Which rum is tasty?
The question "which rum is good?" seems simple, but the answer depends entirely on personal taste. Instead of immediately reaching for specific bottles, it makes more sense to first consider what you would like to drink. Do you like soft, sweet flavours like vanilla, caramel and honey, or do you rather prefer fresh and light notes like citrus and coconut? Maybe you just go for something more powerful with wood, spices and cocoa, or even a more pronounced, funky style with ripe fruit and an almost wild intensity. After all, rum is one of the most diverse spirits, and "tasty" means something different to everyone.
In addition, the moment also plays a role. A light, fresh rum comes into its own in cocktails and on hot days, while a richer, fuller rum is better suited to drinking on its own or as a digestif. There are also styles that sit somewhere in between: accessible enough for mixed drinks, but with enough character to appreciate solo as well.
By approaching the question in this way, you will not only discover what you yourself find a tasty rum, but you will also eventually begin to better understand why that rum suits you.
What types of rum are there?
The best-known subdivisions are white, gold and dark. White rum is bright, fresh and perfect for cocktails like mojito or daiquiri. Golden rum has a bit more body thanks to a short maturation. Dark rum matures longer and develops rich, spicy notes that you can safely drink pure. And then there is spiced rum, where spices like vanilla or cinnamon give it an extra sweet twist.
Broadly speaking, you can distinguish the following styles:
- White rum: clear and light in flavour
- Gold rum: golden, richer flavour than white rum with notes of caramel and vanilla
- Dark rum: dark, deep in colour, with rich and complex flavours such as molasses, chocolate and spices
- Spiced rum: flavoured with spices such as cinnamon, cloves and vanilla
- Overproof rum: high alcohol content, often above 50%
- Flavored rum: Added flavours such as coconut, pineapple or mango
What is English-style rum?
This rum is known for its full, rich and complex flavours. The English-style rum often has notes of molasses, caramel, fruit and spices.
This style rum is made from molasses and is often distilled in pot stills, resulting in a robust flavour profile. According to American Chemical Society, rums from pot stills contain more esters and higher alcohols, which contribute to the complex flavour.
Countries where the specific style of rum is traditionally produced include Jamaica, Barbados, Guyana and Trinidad. Well-known brands of English-style rums include Appleton Estate, Mount Gay and El Dorado.
What is Spanish-style rum?
Spanish-style rum ("Ron") is lighter and sweeter, with a smooth and refined taste. These rums often have notes of vanilla, caramel and tropical fruit.
It is made from molasses and often distilled in column stills, resulting in a lighter, purer rum. Column stills allow for more efficient distillation, giving the rum a more consistent character. Furthermore, these rums are often aged in a so-called Solera system.
Countries where the specific style of rum is traditionally produced: Cuba, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic and Venezuela, brands like Bacardi, Ron Zacapa and Havana Club probably sound familiar.
What is Rhum Agricole (French style)?
French-style rum has an earthy, grassy and sometimes floral flavour. It is often complex and can range from light and fresh to rich and spicy. It is a real "love it or hate it" type of rum: some swear by it and others revile it.
This rum is made from freshly squeezed sugarcane juice and usually distilled in pot stills. Production often follows strict standards, such as the AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) in Martinique, ensuring consistent and high-quality production.
Countries where this particular style of rum is traditionally produced: Martinique, Guadeloupe and Haiti. Well-known brands include Rhum Clément, Rhum JM and Barbancourt.
What do VS, VSOP and XO mean?
Unlike with cognac, these designations are not regulated within rum. These designations in rums therefore often say more about quality or style, but do not necessarily refer to an explicit (minimum) age of the spirit in the bottle.
How strong is rum?
Most rums are around 37.5% to 40% alcohol. But beware: there are also so-called overproof rums that easily exceed 60%. These will immediately spice up your cocktail - or provide a solid punch when drunk straight.
What is the difference between rum, cachaça and rhum agricole?
It's all in the base. Rum is usually made from molasses, while cachaça (from Brazil) and rhum agricole (from the French Caribbean) always come from fresh sugarcane juice. The result? Agricole and cachaça often have a somewhat grassy, spicy touch, while rum tends to be rounder and softer.
What rum do you use for cocktails?
For fresh mixed drinks such as a mojito or daiquiri, it is best to choose a light white rum. Tiki cocktails or a Dark 'n Stormy, on the other hand, get more depth from a dark or spicy rum. In short: your choice of rum makes all the difference in your glass.
Which rums can you drink pure?
Aged rums from Barbados, Jamaica or the Dominican Republic, for example, are often smooth, complex and ideal to enjoy pure. They can easily compete with a good whisky or cognac in terms of depth.
How does rum taste compared to whisky or brandy?
Rum tends to be sweeter and rounder thanks to the sugar cane. Whisky can be malty, spicy or smoky, while brandy is more likely to have fruity, wine-like notes. A matter of taste, but rum often has a more tropical character.
What is the maturation process for rum?
Rum usually matures in ex-bourbon barrels. Due to the warm climate in the Caribbean, this is faster than for whisky in Scotland. As a result, an 8-year-old rum can already taste surprisingly intense.
What is the difference between pot still rum and column still rum?
- Pot still-rum is rich, powerful and complex because it is distilled in smaller batches.
- Column still-rum is lighter and cleaner, ideal for blending.
Many brands combine both styles to get a balanced profile.
What does "solera" or "solera system rum" mean on a rum bottle?
Solera System rum refers to a maturation method where young and old rums flow together. In a Solera System, barrels of different ages are stacked on top of each other, with the oldest rum sitting at the bottom. Bottles are filled from these lower barrels, and then the barrel is replenished with rum from the row above, and so on. The result is a blend of quite a few different ages that results in a flavourful, complex final product that is still consistent in quality, style and recognisability. Because the oldest barrels at the bottom are always diluted with younger rums, the final product in a properly functioning Solera system, after decades of production, basically still contains traces of the very first, oldest rum the process ever started with.
The year number on the bottle then often refers to the oldest rum in the blend, not the average age.
Is rum always made from sugar cane?
Yes, that is a must. Whether it is molasses or sugarcane juice, rum must always come from sugarcane. Other sugars (beet, palm, etc.) are officially outside the definition.
The base for a rum can usually be reduced to one of the following groups:
- Molasses (molasses, syrup): Molasses is fermented and distilled, after which the rum can be aged in barrels. Molasses is a by-product of sugar production and contains many sugars that are converted into alcohol and complex flavourings during fermentation.
- Suger Cane Juice : This rum is known for its natural, unadulterated taste of sugar cane. In this rum, the juice is directly fermented and then distilled.
- Spiced rum: Base rum to which spices and sometimes additional flavours are added during or after the distillation process.
- Sugar Cane Syrup: Sugar cane syrup is fermented and distilled. The use of sugar cane syrup gives the rum a more concentrated and pure sugar cane flavour.
- Sugar Cane Honey: This substance, also known as "miel de caña" in Spanish, is a thick, syrupy liquid obtained by boiling the juice of sugar cane until it thickens, but before it crystallises into sugar. This method is less common and results in a rum with a unique, rich flavour.
- Arranged rum: Base rum is mixed with various flavourings and left to macerate for some time. This gives the rum a distinct and often sweet profile.
What is molasses?
Molasses is a syrupy by-product of sugar refining. It is created when sugar cane or sugar beet is processed to produce sugar.
What is the difference between white and dark rum?
The difference between white and dark rums is mainly in the production methods and ageing times, resulting in different flavours, colours and uses. White rum is clear and translucent, has a mild and light flavour with subtle notes, and is often aged for a shorter time than dark rum, usually in stainless steel tanks or neutral barrels to preserve its colour. This rum type is popular in cocktails such as mojitos and daiquiris, where a subtle rum flavour is desired without affecting the colour of the drink.
Dark rum, on the other hand, is dark brown to almost black in colour, with a rich and full-bodied flavour that contains complex notes of caramel, vanilla and sometimes spices. This rum is aged longer in oak barrels, which contributes to its dark colour and rich flavour. Sometimes caramel is also added for extra colour and flavour. Dark rum is often used in cocktails where a stronger rum flavour is desired, such as in a rum old fashioned, or drunk pure as a sipping rum.
What is the history of rum?
Rum was first produced in the Caribbean in the 17th century, with the first documented production in Barbados around 1650. Production quickly spread to North America, especially to the colonies in New England, where rum became an important trade product.
Rum played a crucial role in the transatlantic slave trade, also known as the Triangular Trade. Slaves from Africa were brought to the Caribbean to work on sugar cane plantations, while sugar and rum were shipped to Europe and North America. Locals and workers often had access to the rum produced locally, making it a popular drink among the lower social classes. This gave rum a negative connotation and it was seen as the drink for the poor. Today, this image has completely changed is rum is a versatile and popular drink.
Why is rum so strongly associated with pirates?
In the 17th and 18th centuries, rum was the means of payment and exchange in the Caribbean. Sailors often received a ration of rum as part of their wages. No wonder pirates and rum have been inextricably linked ever since.
Where can I buy rum?
Basic rums like a brown Havana Club can be found in any shop or supermarket these days, but there is so much more! With over 1,000 rums in our range, Drankenshop Broekmans is the right place for all your rum needs, no matter what colour, flavour, profile, brand, country or price range you are looking for.
