Learn about the best rum for mojitos and find all the best recipes in this complete rum guide. Because our love for a vibrant, handcrafted cocktail runs deep, we are continuing our updated mojito series with what might be the most important part of a mojito… the rum!
The flavor profile of mint, lime, and fizzy bubbles will always keep us coming back for more mojitos, but it’s the rum that seals the deal.
While you might think to grab the first bottle of rum you find in your liquor cabinet when you’re mixing a cocktail, there’s actually an art to deciding which bottle is best. Learn the keys to choosing a stellar sip for your next mojito and beyond!
I love a quality cocktail. And yes… I love when a seasoned bartender mixes one up for me, of course! However, there’s just something about knowing you can create your own fabulous mojito at home that makes a weekend cocktail that much more fun.
I’ve long enjoyed sharing my favorite classic cocktails with you… and some fresh new versions too! Today, let’s learn all about RUM.
Rum Cocktails
A classic mojito is of course an Cuban recipe, but I experienced my first one while on vacation in Mexico years ago, and that’s why these timeless flavors always bring me back. Rum just reminds us of island breezes and salty seas and the best memories of vacation.
You’re in luck though! We don’t have to pick a favorite, because there’s sure to be a rum bottle to fit every budget and wish list! Whether your preference is for silver rums or dark rums, you can learn something about what works best with your favorite rum cocktail today.
Because a mojito features only one type of liquor, the base rum you choose matters! Rum adds so much vibrant flavor to a cocktail no matter the type you choose.
What is Rum?
Rum is a type of liquor that is distilled from sugar. This makes it an inherently sweet liquor and one that is delightful for a variety of cocktails.
Whether it’s made from molasses, pure sugar cane, or syrup, it’s considered to be one of the oldest distilled spirits around. Rum originated in the Caribbean and is generally aged for up to 10 years, depending on where it’s made… and it’s now produced around the world.
Most rum is bottled at 40 percent alcohol (80 proof), although of course there are exceptions. It’s often aged in wood casks, including oak barrels and even whisky barrels, which will impart their unique flavoring into the liquor. Climate plays a large part in the end result of your rum, as well!
Different Types of Rum
Light, gold and dark rums are among the most popular varieties on the market in the US. Spiced rum and unique flavored rums are also fun choices, but they aren’t generally considered to be the best option for a mojito!
White Rum
White rum, also called light rum or silver rum, is slightly sweet and subtle after minimal aging in stainless steel tanks. It’s similar to vodka or even a blanco (or silver) tequila in terms of light, easy drinking. That’s why most will agree that this type is the best rum for mojitos and more of your favorite cocktails!
Just as a blanco tequila is best for a margarita, a white rum allows the other ingredients in a mojito to shine. White rum is minimally aged and therefore is less forward in flavor.
Gold Rum
Looking for a fun rum to sip on its own? Consider a gold rum, which has been aged in barrels for longer and is generally considered more nuanced and sippable.
Also called an amber rum, they also might have added caramel for a richer flavoring, so be selective in your choices depending on your needs.
Dark Rum
Dark rum is of course aged the longest in barrels… many bottles age in oak barrels for up to 10 years, giving them a much richer color and depth of palette. Generally speaking, there are no additives in dark rums, making them excellent for drinking on their own.
Best for sipping on its own or used in cooking where you’d like to impart a deep flavor, gold rum is not generally used for mojitos and other cocktails unless specified.
Best Rum for Mojitos
Generally, most bartenders will agree that a classic white rum is best for mojitos. It’s clean, refreshing, and not aged as long as the other types. It won’t compete with the bold lime and mint flavors of your mojito and instead, allows the flavors to truly shine.
Just like the Best Tequila for Margaritas, it’s surprising and wonderful that the best rum for mojitos is delightfully inexpensive! Here are a few of our favorite brands at a variety of price points for making the ultimate Mojito Bar for your next party.
- Havana Club Añejo Blanco Puerto Rican Rum
- Bacardi Silver
- Captain Morgan
- Banks 5 Island Rum
- Mount Gay Silver
Commonly Asked Questions About Rum
Traditionally, the following classic cocktails are made with rum:
*Mojito
*Mai Tai
*Daiquiri
*Piña Colada
*Rum Old-Fashioned
*Dark ‘n’ Stormy
*Hurricane
Yes, you sure can! You can use tequila, too! Get our classic Vodka Mojito Recipe and learn all about tequila in this Tequila Guide.
