Selecting the perfect mixer is crucial to crafting a great cocktail, especially in rum-based drinks. A rum-spiked drink with the right mixer can enhance the flavors and take your cocktail to new heights. Whether you’re partial to the classic mixes or prefer a more elaborate concoction, choosing the appropriate rum mixers will achieve a well-balanced and satisfying drink.
Beyond just adding flavor, the right mixer can also influence your cocktail’s texture and overall drinking experience. A good mixer should complement the rum’s unique taste profile and enhance its complexity. Additionally, the best mixers with rum should achieve your desired level of acidity and effervescence.
By experimenting with various mixers, you can unlock a world of flavors that can completely transform your rum cocktails. So, whether you’re hosting a party or just looking to impress your friends, read on to discover the best mixers with rum.
What can you mix with rum?
Rum is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with other ingredients to create delicious cocktails. If you’re wondering what to drink with rum, here are five options that you can try:
1. Cola
One of the best mixers with rum is cola. This combination of rum and coke is easy to make and perfectly balances sweet and refreshing flavors.
Rum and coke is a classic drink enjoyed for generations. It is a simple yet satisfying cocktail that anyone can enjoy, regardless of their experience with rum. Rum and coke typically consist of 2 ounces of rum, 4 to 6 ounces of cola, and ice, garnished with a wedge of lime. The cola’s sweetness complements the smoothness of the rum, creating the perfect drink for a hot summer day.
If you’re looking to mix things up, there are variations on the classic rum and coke that you can try. For example, flavored cola can create a more complex and nuanced flavor profile. You can also experiment with different types of rum, such as spiced or dark rum, to create a unique and creative cocktail.
2. Pineapple Juice
Pineapple juice adds sweetness and acidity to the rum, creating a refreshing, fruity cocktail perfect for summertime sipping.
Add ice to a cocktail shaker to make the iconic rum and pineapple juice cocktail. Then, add 2 to 3 ounces of dark rum and 4 ounces of pineapple juice to the shaker. Shake vigorously for 10 seconds to combine the ingredients and chill the drink. Strain the cocktail into a glass filled with ice, and garnish with a wedge of pineapple or a sprig of mint for added flavor.
Besides the rum and pineapple juice cocktail, other recipes incorporate these two ingredients. For example, you can try a Mai Tai, which combines rum, pineapple juice, lime juice, and orange liqueur for a complex and flavorful drink. Or, for a twist on the classic rum and coke, try mixing rum with pineapple juice and a splash of cola for a sweet and tangy cocktail.
3. Ginger Beer
For good rum mixers, ginger beer is a popular choice. The Dark’ N’ Stormy is one of the most famous cocktails made with rum and ginger beer. It is a simple yet delicious cocktail that combines dark rum, ginger beer, and lime juice. This cocktail gets its name from the rum’s dark appearance, which is poured over the top of the ginger beer, creating a stormy effect.
To prepare the cocktail, fill a tall glass with ice. Then, pour 2 ounces of dark rum over the ice and top it off with ginger beer. Squeeze in a wedge of lime and stir gently to combine the ingredients. The result is a refreshing, zesty cocktail perfect for any occasion.
4. Coconut Water
A refreshing and hydrating option for rum mixers is the combination of rum and coconut water. This mix is perfect for summertime sipping and can be used as a base for various rum cocktails, including the Caribeño.
The Caribeño cocktail is a tropical and fruity drink that incorporates the flavors of pineapple and lime for a sweet and tangy taste. To make the Caribeño, fill a shaker with ice and add 2 ounces of your favorite rum. Then, pour 4 ounces of coconut water into the shaker, followed by a splash of lime juice. Shake the mixture well to combine all the flavors, and strain it into a glass filled with ice.
You can customize this cocktail according to your taste preferences by adjusting the amount of each ingredient used in the recipe. For a sweeter taste, add more pineapple juice, and for a more tart flavor, add more lime juice. You can also enjoy it as a frozen drink by blending all the ingredients with ice instead of shaking them.
5. Orange Juice
Orange juice is undoubtedly one of the best mixers with rum. A classic example of this is the simple yet refreshing Rum Screwdriver. This cocktail is made by filling a tall glass with ice and adding 1 1/2 ounces of your favorite rum. Then, stir 5 ounces of fresh-squeezed orange juice until well combined.
To give your Rum Screwdriver more complexity, you can experiment with different types of rum, such as spiced rum or coconut rum. You can also add a splash of grenadine or another fruity syrup to give the cocktail a touch of sweetness and color. You can turn a basic rum and orange juice mix into a delicious and versatile cocktail with some creativity.
The Bottom Line
The best mixers with rum can take your cocktail game to the next level. Whether you prefer a classic combination or a tropical twist, there’s a rum mixer for every palate. The key is using premium ingredients and experimenting to find the perfect balance that satisfies your taste buds. By trying these mixers, you can create impressive rum cocktails that will make you the star of any party.
Take your cocktail game to the next level with Village Warehouse Wine and Spirits.
You can never go wrong with rum; by experimenting with different mixers, you can learn new drink flavors you might love. If you want to know what to mix with rum, our knowledgeable Village Warehouse Wine and Spirits staff will help you.
Our liquor store in Edwards, Colorado, houses many types of rum you can pair with various mixers to create unique and flavorful cocktails. Pay us a visit today and explore our extensive rum and mixer selections!
