22 Dark Rum Cocktails to Make at Home

Dark rum cocktails are loved for their deep taste. Whether you like it in a fizzy mix, a simple spiced drink, in a fruity blend, or just with some ice, it’s a drink that feels cozy and special. 

Dark rum brings a special flavor to drinks. It stands out among other rums, like the lighter white and zesty spiced rum.  It’s is a classic favorite for us as we love that strong, full-bodied rum flavor in our drinks.

Keep in mind that dark rums aren’t all the same. The way they’re made, the barrels they age in, and the ingredients each distillery uses can change their flavors. This variety makes exploring and enjoying it so much fun and interesting for rum enthusiasts.

22 Best Dark Rum Cocktails

Looking for the best dark rum drinks? They’re easy to make! You only need a few simple things to mix up classic drinks at home. Drinks World made a nice overview for you:

Dark ‘N’ Stormy

The Dark’ N’ Stormy is a refreshing and spicy cocktail from Bermuda known for its simple yet captivating flavor. It’s notable for being a patented cocktail by Gosling’s Black Seal Rum, and only this specific rum can be used to make an official Dark ‘N’ Stormy.

Ingredients: Dark Rum, Ginger Beer, Lime

Zombie

The Zombie is a fun and fruity cocktail that first appeared in the late 1930s and was created by Donn Beach, the founder of Tiki culture. This drink is known for its tropical taste and combining different rums and fruit juices.

Planter’s Punch

Planter’s Punch is a fruity and vibrant cocktail with a history that can be traced back to the Caribbean. The recipe for this drink has been printed in newspapers as far back as the early 1900s, making it a historical favorite. It’s loved for its tropical flavors and refreshing taste.

Cuba Libre

The Cuba Libre is a popular cocktail created in the early 1900s during the Spanish-American War. The combination of cola, lime, and rum is said to symbolize the end of Cuba’s War of Independence. It’s a simple yet timeless drink, representing freedom and celebration.

Mai Tai

The Mai Tai is a celebrated cocktail in the Tiki culture, first crafted in the 1940s. Although there’s some debate about its exact origins, both Trader Vic and Donn Beach claimed its invention. Its name translates from Tahitian to mean “out of this world.”

Rum Runner

Originating in the Florida Keys in the 1950s, the Rum Runner is named after the real rum-runners who smuggled alcohol during Prohibition. It’s a fruity concoction that’s tropical and sweet.

Corn’ n’ Oil

This lesser-known cocktail has a strong Caribbean influence. Its intriguing name reflects its rich and velvety texture.

Treacle

A sophisticated cocktail created by Dick Bradsell in the 1990s, the Treacle combines the flavors of apple and rum in a harmonious blend.

Painkiller

Originating in the British Virgin Islands, the Painkiller is so named because of its soothing tropical flavors.

Rum Old Fashioned

This is a delightful twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, where rum’s deep flavors are accentuated.

Tobago Tea

Named after the beautiful island of Tobago, this cocktail is a refreshing blend that can be enjoyed on a hot day.

Jungle Bird

The Jungle Bird was created in Malaysia in the 1970s. Its unique combination of flavors, including bitter Campari and tropical pineapple, make it stand out.

El Presidente

Originating from Cuba during the 1920s, El Presidente was named in honor of Cuban President Gerardo Machado. Popular during Prohibition, it became a favorite among American tourists visiting Havana to escape alcohol restrictions. It’s a smooth cocktail, reflecting the elegance of old Cuban high society.

Navy Grog

Dating back to the British Navy’s days of the 1700s, this drink was originally a mix of rum and water. Today’s version is far more sophisticated, boasting a refreshing tropical blend. It’s a salute to sailors of old who were given a daily rum ration.

Floridita

Named after El Floridita, the famous Havana bar, this cocktail encapsulates the vibrancy of Cuban nightlife in the 1930s. Its bright and tangy flavor is a dance of refreshment on the palate.

Cable Car

This modern classic was invented in the 1990s by legendary bartender Tony Abou-Ganim. Named after San Francisco’s iconic transportation method, the Cable Car offers a delightful balance of sweet and sour.

Black Magic

As enchanting as its name suggests, Black Magic is a cocktail that combines the deep flavors of coffee with the richness of dark rum. Its origins are shrouded in mystery, much like the drink itself.

Bumbo

This cocktail harks back to the 17th century, favored by pirates and sailors. Spiced and sweet, the Bumbo is like a piece of Caribbean history in a glass.

Rum Punch

A classic of the Caribbean, Rum Punch varies in recipes across the islands. Its vibrant colors and fruity flavors make it synonymous with beachside relaxation. The phrase “one of sour, two of sweet, three of strong, four of weak” often helps remember its traditional proportions.

Rum Flip

Dating back to colonial America, the Flip began as a warming drink. The Rum Flip is a creamy and rich version, often served during cold months or as a dessert drink.

Hotel Nacional Special

Named after the famous Hotel Nacional de Cuba, this cocktail captures the essence of luxury and grandeur. With a unique blend of pineapple and apricot, it’s like sipping the luxury of the 1930s Havana.

Brown Derby

Though commonly associated with bourbon, the rum version of the Brown Derby gives a tropical twist to the classic. This cocktail pays homage to the legendary Brown Derby restaurant in Hollywood, connecting the glitz and glamour of the silver screen to each sip.

6 brands to make dark rum cocktails with

Our DrinksWorld experts and bartenders were asked to pick the best rums for mixing. These are their top choices:

Gosling’s Black Seal

Back in 1806, in Bermuda, the Gosling family began making rum. By the mid-19th century, they created a standout rum called Gosling’s Black Seal. Today, it’s a top choice for dark rum lovers. It has a delightful blend of butterscotch, vanilla, and caramel flavors. Plus, if you’ve ever heard of the cocktail Dark ‘N’ Stormy, this rum is a must-have ingredient.

Kraken Black Spiced Rum

The Kraken rum comes from the Caribbean and is named after a legendary sea creature. Its bottle even has this cool, old-time sea design. The rum is deep and dark with a special mix of spices. When you taste it, you’ll pick up hints of chocolate, sweet molasses, and a spicy kick.

Myers’s Original Dark Rum

From Jamaica comes Myers’s Original Dark Rum, a favorite since 1879. They make it using sugarcane molasses found only in Jamaica. This rum is rich in flavor, especially notes of caramel and molasses. It’s often used in classic cocktails, like the Planter’s Punch.

Appleton Estate Reserve Blend

Also from Jamaica, Appleton Estate has been crafting rum since the 1700s. Their Reserve Blend is smooth with a warm honey color. You’ll taste a mix of spicy pepper, dried fruits, and a hint of cocoa. It’s versatile – great for sipping straight or blending into upscale cocktails.

Ron Zacapa Centenario 23

Here’s a unique one from Guatemala: Ron Zacapa Centenario 23. It’s aged high up in the mountains, not by the ocean like most rums. It’s Made from a blend of rums aged 6 to 23 years, making its flavor layered and deep. Think sweet butterscotch, spicy wood, and sun-dried fruits. It’s a top pick for sophisticated cocktails.

Captain Morgan Dark Rum

Captain Morgan, named after a famous pirate, has been around since the early 20th century. They made a special dark rum that many people like. Today, it’s a favorite for those who want a strong rum taste. It has flavors like molasses and spice, perfect for drinks like Rum and Cola.

Other Rum types

From sipping to mixing, there’s a type of rum for every preference.

White Rum

White rum is clear, lightly aged, and has a subtle flavor. It’s often used in cocktails like the Mojito and Daiquiri because of its clean taste.

Gold Rum

Gold rum, aged in wooden barrels, has a mid-range depth of flavors like vanilla and caramel. It’s a versatile choice for many drinks.

Spiced Rum

This type is infused with spices like vanilla or cinnamon and is great for certain cocktails or paired with cola.

Overproof Rum

This is a strong rum with a very high alcohol content. It adds a kick to cocktails and is also used in some dishes.

Aged Rum

Stored for years in barrels, aged rum has deep, rich flavors. It’s best enjoyed neat or with a little ice, similar to a good whiskey.

When to serve dark rum cocktails?

Dark rum cocktails are versatile and can be served on a variety of occasions:

1. Winter Evenings: The rich and warming notes of dark rum make it a favorite during colder months. Think of cozy nights by the fireplace with a rum-based Hot Toddy or a Buttered Rum.
2. Holiday Gatherings: Many traditional holiday drinks, like Eggnog or festive punches, can be enhanced with a splash of dark rum.
3. Summer BBQs: Light rums are often associated with summer, but dark rum can be the base for more robust tropical drinks. For instance, a Dark’ N’ Stormy can be a refreshing choice for a summer evening.
4. After Dinner: Dark rum cocktails can act as digestifs. A simple rum Old Fashioned or a Rum Manhattan can be the perfect ending to a meal.
5. Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or any festivity, dark rum cocktails can add a touch of sophistication and warmth to the event.
6. Tiki Parties: Tiki culture often mixes various rums. Including a dark rum cocktail, like a Zombie or Mai Tai, can give depth to your tiki drink menu.

More Rum cocktails

We focused on dark rum drinks so far, but there are also some great cocktails made with other types of rum. Let’s check them out:

• White Rum Cocktails – Try classics like the Mojito, Daiquiri, and Pina Colada.
• Spiced Rum Cocktails – Enjoy in a Spiced Rum Punch, and a Bahama Papa.
• Gold Rum Cocktails – Sample in a Mai Tai and a Hurricane.
• Other Classic cocktails
• 2-ingredient dark rum cocktails

FAQs

1. What is dark rum made from? It is primarily made from molasses or sugarcane juice and is aged longer than white rum, usually in charred oak barrels.
2. How is dark rum different from white rum? It has a richer, deeper flavor and color due to extended aging and the type of barrels used.
3. What mixers pair well with dark rum? Ginger beer, cola, fruit juices (like pineapple and orange), and coconut cream are popular mixers.
4. How does aging impact the flavor of dark rum in cocktails? Aging imparts deeper flavors, often bringing out caramel, vanilla, and smoky notes.
5. Why do some dark rum cocktails have fruit garnishes? Fruit complements rum’s tropical origins and can enhance the overall flavor experience.
6. Is dark rum sweet? It often has sweet undertones due to molasses and aging, but it’s not as sweet as liqueurs.
7. Does dark rum go bad? It can last long if properly stored, but its flavors might diminish over the years.
8. What’s the difference between dark rum and black rum? They’re similar, but black rum is often darker due to added molasses or caramel.
9. Is there a difference between the Caribbean and other dark rums? Yes, the region can influence flavor. Caribbean rums might have different notes than, say, South American or Asian rums.
10. What does “overproof” mean in dark rum? It means the rum has a much higher alcohol content than typical rum.
11. Is dark rum gluten-free? Most rums are gluten-free as they’re distilled from sugarcane, but always check labels if concerned about allergens.

Simple Dark Rum Cocktails: Dark ‘N’ Stormy Recipe (and 21 More!)

Try this simple Dark ‘N’ Stormy dark rum cocktail recipe! It’s a great drink with dark rum and ginger beer for any event.