Know the the type of dark rum you're mixing with coffee
Although the hue of rum can offer some insights into its taste, it doesn't reveal the entire picture of the spirit. The term "dark rum" refers to liquors that may or may not be aged in barrels, with the commonality being a molasses base. Just as there is a significant difference between raw brown and white sugar, molasses plays a crucial role in defining the flavor profile of this type of rum. Typically, you can expect sweet undertones of caramel, chocolate, and hints of leather, which complement coffee beautifully.
However, it's important to consider how the production methods and barrel aging influence the coffee pairing experience. Rums in this category can have an alcohol by volume (ABV) ranging from 40% to overproof versions at 70% ABV. While most undergo double distillation, some are triple distilled. With aging periods that can span from none to blends aged for a decade or more, it becomes evident that this term covers a wide variety of spirits.
To add to the complexity of choosing a rum, many aged spirits can obscure their age through their color. Dark rum producers may also introduce molasses to artificially enhance the spirit's color. Additionally, rums do not age in the same straightforward manner as other spirits. Therefore, while the color of rum is a useful starting point, it's essential to examine the strength, production region, and aging process. Consider options like lightly aged Jamaican rums such as Smith & Cross, the smooth dried fruit flavors of a blended Zacapa from Guatemala, or the spiciness of Bermuda's Gosling's Black Seal as enticing choices.
Craft cocktails that showcase the beauty of rum and coffee
You can easily blend the two by simply adding some rum to a freshly brewed hot coffee, resulting in a delightful drink. This combination can also serve as a base for a variety of mixed beverages. In fact, the very first cocktail featured aged rum—though it was mixed with tea—demonstrating the potential for creative mixing.
To start, just mix some sugar and Jamaican rum into a hot brewed coffee, then top it off with whipped cream to create a Pharisäer Kaffee, a cherished beverage from North Frisia, Germany. If you're in the mood for something more fragrant, try incorporating brown sugar and spices, and pair it with spiced rum for a warm coffee treat. A whipped cream topping is always a nice addition, perhaps infused with butterscotch for an extra kick. For a stronger option, consider a Spanish coffee, which swaps out the spices for orange and coffee liqueurs.
While hot rum coffee cocktails are undeniably tasty, don't overlook the cold versions. Campari can add a refreshing twist to your iced coffee cocktails in the summer, while in the fall, you might enjoy pairing rums with cold brew. The combination can be quite remarkable, whether mixed with syrups and bitters in a highball or shaken with aromatic liqueurs for a robust drink. So, feel free to experiment and uncover a whole new world of beverages.
Recommended
How A Coffee Patina Can Easily Protect Your Knives
2 Ways To Easily Incorporate Fresh Berries Into Iced Coffee
Upgrade Your Latte With One Seasonal Trader Joe's Condiment
Save Your Banana Peels To Make The Absolute Best Tea
Next up
