Rum is often surprising in its versatility, offering far more than the sugary fruit punches many first encounter. To highlight its potential, Joy Spence, the first female Master Blender at Appleton Estate, shares five standout rum cocktails that showcase the spirit’s range and depth. Nathan Larkin, co-owner of Speak in Code in Manchester, adds his modern twists to each cocktail.
5. Daiquiri
The Daiquiri, a classic that hails from Cuba, comes first on the list. It is a drink known for its simplicity, balancing lime’s acidity and sugar’s sweetness.
Speak In Code’s Daiquiri Recipe:
- 50ml White Rum
- 25ml Freshly squeezed lime juice
- 15ml 1:1 sugar syrup
- 3 drops 20% saline solution
The key to a perfect Daiquiri is a good hard shake, creating a smooth texture.
4. Mai Tai
Next up, the Mai Tai has been revamped to emphasize rum’s essential qualities.
Speak In Code’s Mai Tai Recipe:
- 25ml White Rum
- 10ml Aged Rum
- 15ml Dry Curacao
- 5ml Angostura Di Amaro
- 5ml Overproof Rum
- 25ml Lime Juice
- 20ml Smoked Vanilla & Halva Orgeat
- Grated nutmeg garnish
This twist uses halva-infused orgeat for added depth and richness.
3. Old Fashioned
An Old Fashioned constructed with rum is a bold and exciting option, enhancing the traditional drink with unique ingredients.
Speak In Code’s Rum Old Fashioned Recipe:
- 60ml Aged Rum
- 10ml Dandelion Demerara
- Dandelion Bitters
The use of dandelion adds floral notes while complementing the rum.
2. Stormy Valley
Inspired by the Dark and Stormy, Stormy Valley introduces a refined mix with more control over flavors.
Speak In Code’s Stormy Valley Recipe:
- 50ml Aged rum
- 10ml Clarified lime
- 20ml Ginger cordial
- 70ml Water (carbonated)
- Lapsang bitters to top
This twist relies on freshly made ingredients, providing a crisp and bubbly experience.
1. Rum Punch
Topping the list is the classic rum punch, originally inspired by Indian punch recipes brought back to Britain.
Speak In Code’s Rum Punch Recipe:
- 35ml White rum
- 10ml Peach wine
- 5ml Peach blossom distillate
- 10ml Lime
- 20ml Lacto-fermented peach & oats
- 30ml Pimento spiced pineapple
This version emphasizes balance and freshness over sweetness, featuring unique fermentation techniques.
These five cocktails not only celebrate rum’s adaptability but also invite exploration of its rich flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or a home mixologist, these recipes are sure to impress.