When it comes to the world of spirits, rum has always stood tall. It is a timeless and versatile spirit that can effortlessly blend into fruity tropical concoctions or be savored neat, allowing its complex and layered flavors to shine. This versatility has contributed to the global rum boom, where a multitude of products have flooded the market. Among the various categories, the super-premium rum category has experienced significant growth in recent years. Comprising mainly of elegantly aged rums meant to be enjoyed straight, this category offers a wide range of exceptional bottles across different price points. However, navigating the vast selection can be overwhelming. To simplify this task, we turn to the experts at the world’s most renowned international spirits competitions for guidance. These competitions feature blind tastings by industry professionals, making them the perfect resource to identify the finest bottles of 2023.
Here, we present the sipping rums that were deemed the best by these esteemed competitions. Each of these five bottles promises to transport you to sun-soaked beaches and sandy shores, where rum reigns supreme.
Bodegas Papiamento Caribbean Carnival Rum, hailing from the tiny Caribbean island of Aruba, was crowned Rum of the Year at the London Spirits Competition. While some may be surprised by this victory, it should come as no shock. Aruba, nestled near rum powerhouse Venezuela, has a long-standing tradition of producing exceptional sipping rums. This limited edition bottling is a blend of rums aged for eight years in a combination of old and new world barrels. The result is a vibrant and festive mixture that captures the essence of the region.
Renegade Rum, renowned for challenging the conversation surrounding rum, has garnered numerous accolades for its innovative approach. Operating in the Rhum Agricole style, they focus on showcasing the distinct flavors derived from the terroir in which their cane is grown. Their Single Farm Origin: Hope bottling introduces drinkers to the raw flavors inherent in rum before the aging process tempers them. This expression received widespread recognition at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, earning titles such as Best In Show Unaged White Spirit, Best In Class Overall Rum, and Best In Class Rhum Agricole.
Pampero Aniversario Rum, produced in an 85-year-old distillery in Caracas, Venezuela, continues to accumulate accolades, including the prestigious Best In Show Aged White Award at the New York World Wine and Spirits Competition. Long sought after by rum enthusiasts in the Caribbean region, Pampero Rum has become legendary. The Aniversario Rum, released annually for over six decades, celebrates the rum house’s 25th Anniversary. A blend of four and five-year-old rums aged in sherry casks and bourbon barrels results in a complex and layered rum that is perfect for sipping.
Australia, known for its prosperous whiskey, gin, and vodka production, has also made a mark in the rum world. Beenleigh Artesian Distillers Double Cask Rum was awarded Rum Of The Year at the Bartender Spirits Awards, solidifying Australia’s position as a rising star in the spirits industry. Produced by Australia’s oldest registered distillery, this rum is crafted from a blend of five aged rums. Maturation takes place in historic kauri pine vats, Australian brandy vats, and ex-bourbon casks, resulting in a smooth and delightful sipping rum.
The International Wine & Spirits Competition, a regal event spanning over 54 years, is the epitome of spirits awards. Winning the Rum Trophy at this esteemed competition is a monumental achievement for any brand. Black Tot Masters Blender’s Reserve Rum 2022 is a molasses-based navy rum that embodies indulgence. Made from a blend of stocks from Guyana, Trinidad, Jamaica, and Barbados, it represents the third iteration of the Master Blender’s Reserve. The inclusion of liquid from its predecessors enhances the blend, creating a remarkable flavor profile. Judges at the competition praised its exceptional balance and highlighted notes of caramelized bananas and Demerara sugar.
These five sipping rums represent the pinnacle of excellence in the rum world. From the vibrant Caribbean islands to the historic distilleries of South America, each bottle carries with it a unique story and a flavor profile that exemplifies the art of rum-making. Whether you prefer to savor it neat or craft a bespoke cocktail, these exceptional rums are sure to elevate your drinking experience. So, raise your glass and embark on a journey through flavor and excellence with the finest sipping rums of 2023.