Rum is a popular liquor enjoyed on its own and used in various cocktails too. There are three main types of rum out there – light, gold and dark. Either way, they are both made from fermented sugar cane and molasses. The rum is then aged in casks but here is where the main difference comes in.
Light rum is fermented I steel drums. It is then filtered and it has a clear appearance with a light and slightly sweet taste. Gold rum, also called amber rum, is aged in oak. This produces more of a caramel colour as well as a richer and more pronounced flavour. As for dark rum, it’s made by aging clear rum in a charred oak cask. This gives the rum its dark colour and it is also known for having a fuller flavour. Spiced rum is flavoured with spices and, in many cases, caramel too. This does not affect the quality of the dark rum and only enhances the flavour.
So, with these differences in mind, it’s easier to understand why you may prefer a particular type of rum over another. It’s also the main reason why different cocktails call for different types of rum. For example, if you are to use a spiced rum in a recipe that requires light rum, it will dramatically affect the overall flavour of the drink.
Finally, don’t forget to make sure that you always store your rum in the appropriate spot. It should not be left open or stored in a warm place. It should be kept out of any direct light. Also, once opened, it’s important to consume the bottle within a reasonable amount of time. It does not need to be enjoyed all in one night, but it should not be left open for years.