What comes to your mind when we say rum and coke? For most, it is a match made in heaven. A unique mix of cold, sweet soda with strong alcohol, the combination can never go wrong at any given point. Although most of us associate rum with winter; trust us, a dedicated rum lover needs no specific time or occasion to enjoy the alcohol. In fact, there is something very soothing about rum and coke that remains beyond explanation. We have handpicked a few popular rum brands that have been ruling the Indian market for quite some time now. Have these alcohols on the rocks, pair with soda or make yummy cocktails - you have room to explore. Let's take you through some of the most popular rum brands in India.
Also Read: Rum Butter To Mojito: 6 Rum-Based Recipes You Must Try
Meet our recommended list of 13 rum brands that know how to celebrate:
1. Short Story Rum:
A new addition to your collection of rums, here's a homegrown brand, offering a premium quality rum for your refreshment. Goa-based brand Short Story has come up with smooth Indo-Caribbean white rum that tastes delicious when paired with some flavoured soda and a dash of lime. It is currently available in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore and Goa.
2. Old Monk:
It will be a sin if we don't talk about Old Monk at the very beginning. In fact, for every rum lover, it is the ultimate comfort one can think of. This drink was introduced by Mohan Meakin Ltd. in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh in 1954. Reportedly by 2013, Old Monk became the largest black rum distributor in the world. Old Monk black rum is mixed and aged for at least seven years. It has a prominent vanilla flavour and a 42.8% alcohol level.
3. Maka Zai Bartender's Edition:
Deemed India's first premium artisanal rum, Maka Zai is an independent, homegrown startup that blends small batches of artisanal rums. It comes in two variants. The first is the Bartender's Edition. It is a crystal-clear, medium-bodied white rum with creamy and elegant aromas. This blended molasses spirit has a floral, sweet, spicy, and herbaceous nature that gives it a unique tropical note. The liquid inherits notes from the sugarcane grown in the rich, red soil of Maharashtra used to make the rum.
4. Maka Zai Tribute Edition:
The second variant is the Tribute Edition. It is a premium-quality aged rum, matured for two and a half years in oak barrels. This imparts a golden hue to the drink. The first sip brings out a luscious, silky well-rounded mouthfeel. On the palate, one can get hints of praline, dry dates, figs, caramel, cinnamon, and honey, along with a vanilla accent, that leaves you with a long-lingering finish, giving you a perfect sipping rum.
5. Gladius:
A budget-friendly rum that is smooth and strong and helps you get the ultimate kick- Gladius is a must-try for all. It is said to be aged for at least a decade and tastes delicious when mixed with ingredients to prepare cocktails.
6. Amrut Two Indies Rum:
Amrut is known to be the iconic single-malt in the market. But did you know, it also has a premium rum to offer to the patrons?! Amrut Two Indies Rum is bright gold and has funky aromas and flavours of molasses, burnt sugar, roasted mango, chocolate-orange, sweet pea blossom and bananas. These well-integrated flavours come together for a smooth sipping experience for the patrons.
7. Camikara:
Camikara from the house of Piccadilly Distilleries is an exclusive limited-edition rum, aged to twelve years. It is a sipping rum, best enjoyed neat, to discover the depth of its flavour and character. The rum is distilled in copper pot stills and bottled at a 50 percent ABV. For now, the rum is only available in Haryana and Goa.
8. Viva El Ron:
This rum is said to have its roots in the Cuban Revolution, symbolising the resilience, passion, and enduring spirit of the Cuban people. This Cuban-style blend features fresh, soft, and smooth flavours, transporting you to a breathtaking ocean sunset. It pairs well with classic cocktails like Cuba Libre, Mojito, and Daiquiri, making it a versatile and well-rounded rum. This rum is a must-try!
9. Bacardi:
It is one of the most awarded rum brands in the world, established in Santiago de Cuba in 1862. The spirit has a light and balanced taste and makes for a perfect drink to have as is or in the form of your favourite rum-based cocktails.
The most popular Bacardi Rum variants are, Gold, Black, Superior and Limon.
10. Captain Morgan:
"Live like the Captain," reads the label of the brand. Captain Morgan, named after Sir Henry Morgan, is a product by Diageo, a British alcohol conglomerate. It is a dark rum, with a full-bodied texture and rich taste, making it a popular choice for all. Captain Morgan is aged in an oak barrel that brings out the intense flavour of the drink.
The most popular Captain Morgan variants are Original Spiced Gold Rum and Dark Rum.
11. Malibu:
It is one of the top-selling rum brands in India. In fact, what makes Malibu special is the fact that it is not exactly a rum, but a rum-based drink with 21 to 24 percent alcohol content. Best known for its coconut-flavoured variant, Malibu has a strong aroma and gives you a cocktail-ready spirit for every occasion.
The most popular Malibu variants are Original, Passion Fruit, Lime and Pineapple.
12. Sober Rum:
We have got an option for the teetotalers as well. Here's Sober Rum - a spirit that is free of alcohol. You heard us. This spiced rum bottles the spicy and tropical notes of vanilla, pineapple, cocoa beans and clove and adds a refreshing flavour to your drinking sessions. You can replace it with regular rum and enjoy it with a host of mixers like tonic, water, juice, or any beverage you love to add to rum.
13. Bootz Rum
Bootz Rum captures the true essence of Jamaican rum, known for its distinct and flavorful style. This blended rum features a deep, rich colour and a smooth, full-bodied taste highlighted by hints of vanilla, caramel, and spice. Standing out with a 42.8% alcohol content, it goes beyond the norm in its category. The aroma is inviting and complex, blending notes of molasses, oak, and tropical fruits. Packaged in an elegant and vintage design, the cream and black colour combo with gold foil accents on the canister and label adds a touch of sophistication. Bootz Rum can be enjoyed neat, over ice, or in cocktails like Curricane, Dark Potion, Spice O'cult, and Sin-ci-tea.
What is your favourite Indian rum brand? Do let us know in the comments below.