Raising the Bar: 10 Award-Winning Rums to Sip and Savor in 2023

20/11/2023 From Complex Blends to Rich Aged Rums, These Top Picks Will Delight Your Taste Buds and Elevate Your Spirits.

Rum lovers in the United States have a wide range of options when it comes to choosing their next favorite spirit. From light and fruity white rums to rich and complex aged varieties, there's a rum out there to suit every taste and occasion. 

As the popularity of rum continues to grow, connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike are constantly on the lookout for the latest and greatest offerings. To help narrow down your options, we've compiled a list of the top rums to try in 2023. Whether you're a seasoned rum drinker or new to the spirit,  read on to discover our top picks for the best rums. 

1) Mount Gay XO

With a rich history dating back to 1703, Mount Gay is considered the oldest existing brand of rum in the world. This Barbados rum is aged for a minimum of 8 years, resulting in a smooth, well-balanced flavor profile with notes of vanilla, spice, and oak.  

Mount Gay XO

Image Source: Mount Gay

2) Appleton Estate 21-Year-Old Rum

This Jamaican rum is made using a blend of rums aged for a minimum of 21 years, resulting in a rich, complex flavor profile with notes of dark chocolate, coffee, and tropical fruit. 

Appleton Estate 21 Year Old Rum

Image Source: Appleton Estate

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3) Ten To One White Rum

Ten To One's rums are made using a blend of rums from different Caribbean islands, that gives a distinct taste. This premium white rum is made using a unique blend of aged and unaged rums resulting in a bold and complex flavor that is sure to delight rum enthusiasts.  

Ten to One Rum

Image Source: Ten To One Rum

4) Flor de Caña 4 Year

Flor de Caña 4 Year Old is a premium rum produced by one of the most renowned rum brands in the world. With its subtle funky-banana undertones, this rum is a versatile addition to any cocktail recipe, offering just the right amount of character without overpowering other flavors.

Flor de Caña 4 Year

Image Source: Flor de Caña

5) Plantation Xaymaca Special Dry

Produced by one of the most esteemed rum brands in the world, Plantation Xaymaca Special Dry is made using a blend of rums from four of the most prestigious Jamaican distilleries, resulting in a complex and flavorful spirit that is loved by rum enthusiasts.

Plantation Xaymaca Special Dry

Image Source: Plantation Rum

6) Diplomatico Rum Reserva Exclusiva

Diplomatico Rum has gained a reputation as one of the best-sipping rums in the world. The rum is an incredibly versatile spirit that is equally enjoyable on its own or as a key component in a wide range of cocktail recipes. The production process of this premium rum involves the use of high-quality molasses and sugarcane honey. 

Diplomatico Rum Reserva Exclusiva

Image Source: Diplomatico Rum

7) Rhum J.M. XO Aged Rum

As one of the oldest distilleries, the brand has become a favorite among rum enthusiasts and connoisseurs worldwide. On the palate, the rum is rich and smooth, with a warm and inviting sweetness that is balanced by notes of spice and wood while offering a delicate aroma of tropical fruits, vanilla, and oak. 

Rhum J.M. XO Aged Rum

Image Source: Rhum J.M

 

8) El Dorado 21-Year-Old Special Reserve

The brand is synonymous with high-quality rum that showcases the unique flavor profile of Guyanese rum. El Dorado 21-Year-Old Special Reserve is a complex and flavorful rum that offers a wide range of aromas and tastes. On the nose, it has a rich bouquet of sweet vanilla, caramel, and toffee, with hints of dark chocolate and oak.

El Dorado 21 Year Old Special Reserve

Image Source: El Dorado Rum

9) Barrell Rum Tale Of Two Islands

This rum is a blend of two distinct rums, one from Barbados and the other from Jamaica, both of which are renowned for their exceptional rum production. With bright tropical notes, dark molasses undertones, and a mysterious hint of peat and smoke, Barrell Tale of Two Islands Rum is intense and deeply layered. 

Barrell Rum Tale Of Two Islands

Image Source: Barrell Bourbon

10) Don Papa 10-Year-Old Rum

With its distinctive taste and luxurious packaging, the brand has quickly become one of the most sought-after rum brands in the world. The Don Papa 10-Year-Old Rum is aged for a decade in American oak barrels, resulting in a rich flavor with notes of vanilla, honey, and dried fruits.  

Don Papa 10 Year Old Rum

Image Source: Don Papa Rum

Explore the delightful world of rums with offerings like Equiano Rum, Salcombe Distilling Co., Eminente Reserva, and Ron Abuelo. Try something new and indulge yourself in the exciting range of rum options available!

Header Image Source: Appleton EstatePlantation RumEl Dorado Rum

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