Rum Old Fashioned
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Rum Old Fashioned
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4 / 5
The Rum Old Fashioned is a twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, substituting the traditional whiskey base with a blend of Jamaican rum and overproof rum for a Caribbean flair. This cocktail incorporates the sweetness of falernum, a syrup that combines lime, almond, and sometimes clove or ginger, with a touch of sugar syrup to balance the potent rum flavors. A dash of Angostura Bitters adds complexity and depth, rounding out the drink's profile. Served in a cocktail glass, the Rum Old Fashioned offers a unique fusion of rich rum notes and aromatic sweetness, making it a sophisticated choice for those seeking a cocktail with a tropical twist. It's a favorite among rum enthusiasts and cocktail aficionados searching for a sippable drink that captures the essence of the islands while paying homage to a classic.
Check out all our FAQ's on this cocktail
Base ingredient
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Jamaican rum
Calories
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130 calories
Alcohol content
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31.37% | 1.6 units *
Details
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Classic

Tags

Jamaican rum ingredient icon
Jamaican rum cocktails
Falernum ingredient icon
Top ten Falernum cocktails

Lowball glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Jamaican rum cocktail ingredient icon for the Rum Old Fashioned cocktail
Jamaican rum
Overproof rum cocktail ingredient icon for the Rum Old Fashioned cocktail
Overproof rum
Falernum cocktail ingredient icon for the Rum Old Fashioned cocktail
Falernum
Sugar Syrup cocktail ingredient icon for the Rum Old Fashioned cocktail
Sugar Syrup
Angostura Bitters cocktail ingredient icon for the Rum Old Fashioned cocktail
Angostura Bitters
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

4/5

The Rum Old Fashioned superbly marries Caribbean zest with classic sophistication, substituting the warmth of whiskey for the deep, tropical notes of Jamaican and overproof rums. The addition of falernum introduces a subtle sweetness, laced with hints of lime and almond, which elegantly balances the potent rum base, while a dash of Angostura bitters provides a necessary spicy contrast, enhancing the complexity of this suave and modern twist on a revered classic.

Method
How to make a Rum Old Fashioned

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Begin by combining all the ingredients in a mixing glass filled with ice
Aim to stir them together gently but thoroughly for about 10-15 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture just right
Once stirred, strain the blend into a glass pre-filled with ice, opting for a large block of ice if available, as it melts slower and keeps your drink cool longer
This method ensures your cocktail is perfectly mixed and refreshingly cold, ready to be enjoyed

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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Stir  ·  Strain  · 

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the history behind the Rum Old Fashioned?

The Rum Old Fashioned is a twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, which originated in the early 19th century. The traditional Old Fashioned is made with whiskey, sugar, water, and bitters. The Rum Old Fashioned substitutes whiskey with rum, specifically Jamaican and overproof rums, to give it a more tropical and potent flavor profile. This variation has gained popularity as rum enthusiasts and bartenders explore more diverse and complex flavors.

Faq icon

How do the flavors of Jamaican rum and overproof rum complement each other in this cocktail?

Jamaican rum is known for its full-bodied flavor, featuring fruity, spicy, and sometimes funky notes. Overproof rum, on the other hand, is much stronger in alcohol content and brings intensity and heat to the drink. When combined in the Rum Old Fashioned, the Jamaican rum lays a rich, flavorful foundation while the overproof rum adds a powerful kick and depth, making the cocktail more complex and engaging. The falernum and sugar syrup help to balance out the potency with sweetness and spice.

Ingredient specifics icon

Why is falernum used in this cocktail, and what does it add to the flavor profile?

Falernum is a sweet syrup used in Caribbean and tropical drinks, made from ginger, lime, almond, and sometimes cloves or allspice. In the Rum Old Fashioned, falernum adds a layer of sweetness, spice, and a slight nuttiness, complimenting the depth and heat of the rums. The ingredient rounds out the cocktail, providing a balanced and exotic twist on the traditional Old Fashioned.

Faq icon

Can I use any type of rum for a Rum Old Fashioned?

While you can experiment with different types of rum to suit your taste, the combination of Jamaican rum and overproof rum is recommended for the best balance of flavors in the Rum Old Fashioned. Jamaican rum brings complexity and aromatic spice, while overproof rum offers potency and depth. Using other types of rum might alter the original flavor profile intended for this cocktail, but feel free to explore and find your preferred mix.

Serving suggestions icon

How should I serve a Rum Old Fashioned to best enjoy its flavors?

A Rum Old Fashioned should be served cold in a lowball glass, allowing the aromas and flavors to concentrate and making it more enjoyable to sip. Using a large ice cube or sphere can help maintain a cold temperature without diluting the cocktail too quickly. It's also important to gently stir the cocktail before serving to ensure that all ingredients are well-combined but not diluted. For garnish, consider using a twist of lime or an orange peel to add a refreshing aroma.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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