Put some spice in your life!
Spiced rum is a natural – what better way to taste the islands than to combine two of its most evocative flavors? We sampled three spiced rums among the handful or so that are available in Ohio.
Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum is made from Caribbean rum with spices and natural flavor. (And named for a real, honest-to-goodness sailor and tattoo artist.) The spice here is not overpowering, but is prominently vanilla. Touches of caramel, nutmeg and brown sugar add to its depth. A bit rough around the edges, no doubt like Jerry himself. (92 proof; about $16)
Spiced Jack No. 94 is lighter on the vanilla but heavier on the buttery, burnt toffee flavor. There’s also a hint of orange peel that makes it quite smooth and pleasant. (We do take exception, however, to the brand’s claim that it’s “only for those who are man enough to experience something so bold.” Ahem. Roughly 50 percent of the market will never be “man enough!”) (94 proof; about $15)
Captain Morgan Private Stock is the upscale version of Captain Morgan, the original spiced rum. Its slightly lower proof than those above, along with its sweeter, more intense flavor, makes it a spiced rum suitable for sipping on its own. There’s more going on here than just vanilla and sugar – spices like nutmeg and cinnamon come through, along with a nutty, caramelized flavor that reminded us a bit of butter pecan ice cream. (80 proof; about $23)
