The Old Fashioned cocktail has been a beloved classic for over a century, traditionally made with whisky. However, there is a growing trend to experiment with different spirits, and one of the most exciting alternatives is using aged rum. The combination of the complexity of a quality whisky and the inherent fruit notes found in rum creates a unique and delicious twist on the Old Fashioned. In this article, we will explore the best rum to use for an Old Fashioned, how to make a rum Old Fashioned, and recommend some top rums to try.
What kind of rum to use for Old Fashioned
When choosing a rum for your Old Fashioned, it's important to look for something with a bit of age. Aged rums have richer and more complex characteristics that work well with the bitters and sugar in the cocktail. Higher alcohol bottlings also add more viscosity and body to the drink, enhancing the overall experience.
It is worth noting that age statements for rum are typically not as high as those for whisky. This is due to the faster maturation process that occurs in the tropics where rum is often produced. Additionally, age statements for rum are still not legislated, so there may be occasional discrepancies in the stated age of a rum.
With these considerations in mind, let's take a look at some of the best rums for an Old Fashioned:
Santa Teresa 1796 Solera Aged
This Venezuelan rum is aged in a solera system, which involves blending casks of various ages of rum. The oldest component of this rum is around 35 years old. It offers nutty, spicy, and warming flavors with hints of dried citrus peel. When combined with the aromatic spices of Angostura bitters and the citrus notes from the simple syrup and garnish, Santa Teresa 1796 Solera Aged rum creates a delightful Old Fashioned. Alcohol content: 40%
Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva
Another Venezuelan rum, Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva, is aged for up to 12 years in whisky barrels. This rum has a surprising amount of sugar added, giving it a rich and rounded character. It features notes of candied orange peel, cinnamon, lime, citrus, and caramelized nuts, making it an excellent choice for a rum Old Fashioned. Alcohol content: 40%
English Harbour Sherry Cask Finish
This column-still rum from Antigua is aged for five years in ex-bourbon barrels before spending a few months in former Oloroso sherry casks. It offers nutty and caramel notes dominated by sweet oak, with flavors of citrus, spice, vanilla, and a subtle hint of red fruit. Alcohol content: 46%
How to make a rum Old Fashioned
Now that you have chosen your rum, it's time to learn how to make a delicious rum Old Fashioned. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:
- 60ml (2oz) aged rum
- 5ml (0.25oz) Demerara simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water)
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Squeeze of lime
To make the cocktail, mix all the ingredients together with ice. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass with a large ice cube and garnish with a twist of orange peel. The result is a perfectly balanced and flavorful rum Old Fashioned.
Is rum good smoked?
Smoking cocktails has become increasingly popular in recent years, adding a unique flavor profile to traditional drinks. When it comes to rum, smoking can be a fantastic way to enhance its complexity and create a memorable experience.
By using a smoking technique, you can infuse your rum Old Fashioned with smoky notes that complement the rich flavors of aged rum. Whether you choose to use a smoking gun or a more DIY approach, such as smoking the ice or garnish, the result can be a truly exceptional and unforgettable cocktail.
In conclusion
The smoked rum Old Fashioned is a delightful twist on a classic cocktail. By choosing a well-aged rum, making a homemade simple syrup, and experimenting with smoking techniques, you can create a truly unique and flavorful drink. Whether you're a rum enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, the smoked rum Old Fashioned is a must-try for any cocktail lover.
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