Casks and cuisine: everything you need to know about rum and food pairing!

Rum, with its rich history and diverse flavours, offers a world of possibilities for pairing with food. Whether you're enjoying a sumptuously spiced rum, or savouring the complexities of a dark, aged rum, the right pairing can elevate both the drink and the dish to new heights.

We've provided a brief overview of the flavour profiles of each type of rum below, but no two tipples are the same and each contains its own array of aromas.

To truly get to know your rum, why not do a tasting first? Head over to our rum tasting guide to find our our top tips on how to sample your spirit.

Read on to discover what each rum tastes like, what food pairs well with rum, plus cocktail recipes to complete your mouthwatering meal!

With a whole span of flavours ranging from light and fruity, to complex and grassy with subtle floral notes, white rum serves as a versatile base for a variety of cocktails.

Often unaged, this doesn’t mean that there’s a lack of depth. Its fresh flavour profile makes it an ideal pairing for lighter dishes, as well as seafood and tropical fruits.

Pairing Suggestions

Ceviche

The zesty citrus notes of ceviche harmonise with the clean and crisp profile of white rum - it’s an unbeatable combination.

Caprese Salad

The sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the creaminess of fresh mozzarella are perfectly balanced by the subtle sweetness of white rum, creating a delightful contrast of flavours.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

The charred caramelisation of grilled shrimp pairs beautifully with the lightness of white rum, creating a tropical sensation reminiscent of beachside barbecues.

Cocktail Pairing: Mojito

This classic cocktail is light, refreshing and oh so sippable! Citrussy, herbaceous and slightly sweet notes come together beautifully to create a vibrant serve that will pair perfectly with the dishes above, and bring out the flavours of your white rum. Get the recipe here.

Gold rum offers a more complex flavour profile with hints of caramel, vanilla, and spice. Its medium-bodied character makes it a versatile choice for both sipping neat and mixing in cocktails.

When it comes to food pairing, gold rum complements dishes with richer flavours and robust ingredients, adding depth and warmth to the culinary experience.

Pairing Suggestions

Jerk Chicken

The bold and spicy flavours of jerk chicken are enhanced by the sweet and spiced notes of gold rum, creating a tantalising fusion of Caribbean-inspired flavours.

Pork Tenderloin with Apple Chutney

The sweetness of apple chutney is complemented by the caramel undertones of gold rum, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and savoury flavours.

Bananas Foster

The rich and decadent flavours of Bananas Foster are elevated by the warm and toasty notes of gold rum, creating a sumptuous dessert experience.

Cocktail Pairing: Mai Tai

This cocktail combines three types of rum, including gold, with fragrant Cointreau and warming orgeat syrup, topped with tropical fruit and a zingy hit of lime. The king of Tiki tipples, this tropical serve will marry beautifully with the flavoursome dishes detailed above. Find the Mai Tai recipe here.

Often people’s first foray into the world of rum, spiced rums are frequently infused with zesty citrus, sweet vanilla and baking spices and sometimes fruity flavours and botanicals in a similar way to gin.

The layered flavour profile and blend of spices generally pair well with desserts and richer dishes, but can also be great with simpler recipes that balance out the intensity of the rum.

Pairing Suggestions

Apple Pie

Delicate fruity flavours and the subtle sweetness of spiced rum are a match made in heaven. All the better when served with a simple vanilla ice cream to balance the richness of the rum.

Rice Pudding

A bowl of rich, creamy rice pudding is crying out for a splash of spiced rum. Add a splash straight to your pudding or sip alongside.

Aged Cheeses

The robust flavours of a spiced rum hold up well to punchy aged cheeses, why not try a tasting platter featuring all your favourites?

Cocktail Pairing: Hot Buttered Rum

This sumputous, spiced sip is the perfect accompaniment to delectable desserts like apple pie and rice pudding, and makes the ideal post-cheeseboard digestif with its rich sweetness to counteract those savoury flavours. Get the recipe here.

With its deep mahogany hue and complex flavour profile, dark rum is the epitome of sophistication and refinement.

Aged in oak barrels, dark rum develops rich flavours of molasses, oak, and spices, making it the perfect companion for hearty and indulgent dishes. Whether enjoyed neat or in cocktails, dark rum adds depth and character to any culinary pairing.

Pairing Suggestions

Chocolate Truffles

The luxurious richness of dark chocolate is elevated by the bold and intense flavours of dark rum, creating a decadent treat for the senses.

Tiramisu

The coffee-infused layers of tiramisu are enhanced by the robust and aromatic notes of dark rum, creating a sublime finale to any meal.

Grilled Steak with Bourbon Glaze

The smoky sweetness of bourbon glaze is complemented by the deep and complex flavours of dark rum, creating a savoury sensation that lingers on the palate.

Cocktail Pairing: Rum Swizzle

This cocktail is a gorgeous balance of fresh, sweet fruit juice and aromatic bitters that is ideal to enhance both sweet desserts and savoury dishes. Find the recipe here.