Rum is a spirit made from sugarcane, and it's been enjoyed by people around the world for centuries. There are several different types of rum, each with their own unique flavors and characteristics. Whether you're new to the world of rum or a seasoned connoisseur, it's always fun to explore the different varieties available.

In this article, we'll explore the different types of rum and what makes each one special.

White Rum
White rum is also known as silver or clear rum, and it's the most common type of rum. It's made by distilling sugarcane juice or molasses and then aging it for a short period. The resulting spirit is clear, light-bodied, and has a subtle sweetness. White rum is usually used in cocktails and mixed drinks due to its mild flavor and versatility.
White Rum: Bacardi Superior, Captain Morgan White Rum, Ron Barceló Blanco

Gold Rum
Gold rum, also known as amber or dark rum, is aged for a longer period than white rum. It has a deeper, richer flavor and is often characterized by notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. Gold rum is perfect for sipping straight or mixing into cocktails that require a stronger, more robust flavor.
Gold Rum: Mount Gay Eclipse, Ron Zacapa Centenario 23, Appleton Estate Reserve Blend

Spiced Rum
Spiced rum is made by infusing gold or white rum with various spices and flavors such as cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg. This type of rum has a warm, spicy flavor that's perfect for sipping on its own or mixing into cocktails. Spiced rum is also commonly used in cooking, particularly in desserts like rum cake or as a glaze for ham.
Spiced Rum: Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum, Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum, Kraken Black Spiced Rum

Flavored Rum
Flavored rum is similar to spiced rum, but instead of infusing the rum with spices, it's infused with fruits or other flavors. Examples of flavored rum include coconut rum, pineapple rum, and banana rum. These types of rum are popular in tropical cocktails and mixed drinks and can also be used to add a sweet, fruity flavor to desserts and other recipes.
Flavored Rum: Malibu Original Coconut Rum, Brinley Gold Vanilla, Bacardi Mango Fusion Rum

Aged Rum
Aged rum is made by aging the spirit in barrels for an extended period, typically several years or more. During the aging process, the rum takes on the flavors and characteristics of the barrel, which can be made of various woods such as oak, cherry, or maple. Aged rum is often characterized by its smooth, complex flavor profile and can be sipped on its own or mixed into cocktails that require a more refined taste.
Aged Rum: Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva, Barrilito Rum Superior Especial, El Dorado 15 Year Old Rum

Overproof rum

Overproof rum is a type of rum that's higher in alcohol content than other varieties, typically between 75-80%. This type of rum is often used in cocktails and mixed drinks that require a stronger flavor, and it's also popular for its use in flaming drinks.
Overproof Rum: Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum, Gosling's Black Seal 151 Proof Rum

Navy Rum
Navy rum is a type of rum that was historically used by the British Royal Navy. It's typically dark and full-bodied, with a rich, smoky flavor. Navy rum is often aged for several years in oak barrels and can be sipped on its own or mixed into cocktails.
Navy Rum: Pusser's Navy Rum, Black Tot Rum, The Kraken Black Spiced

Rhum Agricole
Rhum agricole is a type of rum that's made using sugarcane juice rather than molasses. This type of rum is typically produced in the French Caribbean, and it has a distinctive grassy, herbal flavor. Rhum agricole is often aged for several years and is best enjoyed straight or mixed into cocktails that complement its unique flavor profile.
Rhum Agricole: Clement V.S.O.P. Rhum Agricole,  La Favorite Rhum Agricole Hors dAge La Reserve du Chateau 2002

Cachaça
Cachaça is a type of rum that's unique to Brazil. It's made from sugarcane juice and has a distinctive flavor that's both sweet and earthy. Cachaça is often used in the national drink of Brazil, the caipirinha, and it's also popular for sipping on its own.
Cachaça: Cachaça