What are the two types of rum?

The two principal types of rum are light (or white) rum and dark rum. Light rum is typically clean and crisp, with a mild flavor, making it ideal for cocktails and mixed drinks. It is often used in drinks like mojitos and daiquiris, where a subtler rum flavor is desired. On the other hand, dark rum has a richer flavor profile due to its aging process, which often takes place in charred barrels. This aging allows the rum to acquire complex notes such as caramel, vanilla, and spices. Dark rum is frequently enjoyed neat or used in cocktails that benefit from its fuller flavor, such as a Dark 'n Stormy.

While spiced rum and flavored rums exist, they are considered variations rather than the primary types of rum. Gold rum typically falls between light and dark, offering flavors that are not as light as white rum but not as intense as dark rum. The distinction between these two main types helps to categorize the broad range of rums available and informs bartenders about the best uses in cocktail preparation.