Rum comes from fermented and distilled sugarcane by-products. It is a common belief that rum originated in Barbados and to this day the majority of rum is produced in the Caribbean and in South America, hence the concoction’s notorious connection to vacation fun and ultimate relaxation.
Light Rums – Also referred to as silver or white rums, these rums generally have very little flavor aside from a general sweetness, and serve accordingly as a base for cocktails. Light rums are sometimes filtered after aging to remove any color.
Gold Rums – Also known as amber rums, these dark colored, medium-bodied rums are generally aged in wooden barrels (usually the charred white oak barrels that are the byproduct of Bourbon Whiskey).
Spiced Rum – These rums obtain their flavor through addition of spices and, sometimes, caramel. Most are darker in color, and based on gold rums. Some are significantly darker, while many cheaper brands are made from inexpensive white rums and darkened with artificial caramel color.
Dark Rum – Also known as black rum, it is generally aged longer, in heavily charred barrels. Dark rum has a much stronger flavor than either light or gold rum. It is used to provide substance in rum drinks, as well as color. In addition to uses in mixed drinks, dark rum is the type of rum most commonly used in cooking.
Flavored Rum – Some manufacturers have begun to sell rums infused with flavors of fruits. These serve to flavor similarly themed tropical drinks, which generally comprise less than 40% alcohol, and are also often drunk neat or on the rocks.
Over Proof Rum – This grade of rum has a higher percentage of alcohol than standard 40% alcohol. Most of these rums bear greater than 75%, in fact, and preparations of 151 to 160 proof occur commonly.
Premium Rum – As with other sipping spirits, such as Cognac and Scotch, a market exists for premium and super-premium spirits. These are generally boutique brands which sell very aged and carefully produced rums. They have more character and flavor than their “mixing” counterparts, and are generally consumed without the addition of other ingredients.