One of the more significant trends in the rum category is the spectacular rise of spiced and flavoured rums. While these two rums may seem similar, they are actually quite different.

The main difference between spiced rum and flavoured rum is the type of flavours used in each. Spiced rum, unsurprisingly, uses spices like cinnamon, orange, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg to enhance the underlying flavours of the base rum. Flavoured rum uses natural flavours like fruit, coffee and chocolate to create a distinct taste profile.

Spiced rum tends to have a more complex taste profile than flavoured rum as the use of spices is intended to complement the underlying flavours of the rum and create a depth that may not be present in flavoured rum.

In flavoured rum, the taste profile ranges from a refined infusion of a single delicate authentic natural ingredient – like cold pressed coffee that will enhance the rum and not alter its intrinsic qualities too much – through stronger flavours like pineapple or coconut, to highly sugary rum jam-packed with artificial flavours and colours.

It is clear that not all spiced and flavoured rums are created equal: quality and taste can vary greatly depending on the brand and the ingredients used. It’s always a good idea to try different brands and flavours to find the one that suits your taste best.

This may also vary depending on whether you’re looking to enjoy something straight, on the rocks, or in cocktails. The good news is that there is bound to be a spiced or flavoured rum out there that will be perfect for you – it’s just a case of trying them!

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