As International Rum Day approaches this Friday, August 16th, there’s no better time to explore the diverse world of rum and craft a cocktail (or two) that truly celebrates this iconic spirit. And when it comes to rum, few brands offer the depth of flavour and versatility that Old J does. From spiced classics to unique tropical infusions, Old J rum is a testament to the craft of rum-making, offering a range of expressions that cater to every palate. So, let’s dive into the flavours of Old J and discover the perfect way to enjoy each one in celebration of this global day dedicated to rum lovers.

Old J Spiced Rum: The Classic with a Twist 

Old J Spiced Rum is where the journey begins. With a smooth, rich base of Caribbean rum, this expression is infused with a blend of spices, including a hint of vanilla, Persian lime, and subtle notes of toffee. The result is a well-balanced, sweet, and warming rum that’s incredibly versatile.

Perfect Serve: The Old J Spiced Rum shines best in simple yet classic drinks. A Spiced Rum & Cola is a no-brainer. The caramel notes of cola pair beautifully with the spiced rum, enhanced with a squeeze of fresh lime.

Old J Tiki Fire: The Bold and Fiery Expression 

For those who like their rum with a kick, Old J Tiki Fire is the one to reach for. This rum packs a punch at 75.5% ABV, delivering an intense hit of spice and warmth, with underlying notes of vanilla and citrus that burst through the high-proof spirit.

Perfect Serve: Tiki Fire is not for the faint of heart, but in the right cocktail, it’s a showstopper. a Tiki Fire Mai Tai is a fantastic choice. Start with a base of Old J Tiki Fire, add orange curaçao, fresh lime juice, almond syrup, and a dash of bitters. Shake well and serve over crushed ice. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a lime wheel. The bold flavours of Tiki Fire hold up beautifully against the sweet and tart elements, making this a cocktail to remember.

Old J Cherry: The Sweet and Fruity Twist 

Old J Cherry is a playful take on the traditional spiced rum, infused with natural marasca cherry flavours. This rum offers a delightful sweetness with a tart cherry kick, complemented by the signature vanilla and spice undertones of Old J.

Perfect Serve: A Cherry Rum Sour is a must-try. Mix Old J Cherry with fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and a dash of bitters. Shake with ice and strain into a chilled glass. The bright cherry notes come alive in this cocktail, balanced perfectly by the tartness of the lemon. It’s a refreshing and vibrant drink that’s perfect for sipping on a warm day.

Old J Dark: The Rich and Indulgent Sipper 

Old J Dark is a dark and moody rum with prominent notes of salted caramel, toffee and spices - whilst maintaining a splash of Admiral Vernon’s trademark vanilla and Persian lime.

Perfect Serve: For a true rum aficionado, Old J Dark is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks, allowing the complex flavours to unfold with each sip. However, if you’re in the mood for a cocktail, try the Dark Rum Old Fashioned. Muddle a sugar cube with a few dashes of bitters, add a large ice cube, pour over Old J Dark, and stir. Garnish with an orange peel. This classic cocktail allows the rich, spicy notes of the rum to take centre stage, making it a sophisticated choice for any occasion.

Old J Pineapple: The Tropical Escape 

Old J Pineapple brings the tropics to your glass with its vibrant pineapple infusion. The sweet, juicy pineapple notes are complemented by the subtle spice of the original Old J, creating a rum that’s bursting with sunshine.

Perfect Serve: A Pineapple Daiquiri is a fantastic way to enjoy this tropical delight. Combine Old J Pineapple with fresh lime juice and simple syrup, shake with ice, and strain into a chilled coupe glass. The pineapple’s sweetness is beautifully balanced by the acidity of the lime, making this a bright and refreshing cocktail that transports you to a tropical paradise with every sip.

Old J Coconut: The Creamy, Exotic Indulgence 

Old J Coconut is the ultimate tropical indulgence, blending the smoothness of Caribbean rum with the creamy, sweet flavour of coconut. This rum has a velvety mouthfeel, with rich coconut notes that are perfectly balanced by a hint of vanilla and spice.

Perfect Serve: Embrace the tropical vibes with a Coconut Rum Colada. Mix Old J Coconut with pineapple juice and a splash of coconut cream, shake well, and serve over crushed ice. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a cherry. The result is a creamy, refreshing cocktail that transports you straight to a beachside paradise. For a simpler serve, try Old J Coconut with a flavoured soda water of your choice and a squeeze of lime for a light and refreshing drink that’s perfect for a hot summer day.

Toasting to Rum's Diversity 

International Rum Day is a time to celebrate the diversity and richness of rum, and Old J offers something for every palate. Whether you prefer your rum spiced, fruity, bold, or creamy, there’s an Old J expression and a cocktail to suit your taste. So, this Friday, gather your friends, mix up a few cocktails, and raise a glass to the spirit that has brought warmth and flavour to our glasses for centuries.

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