10 Best Rums for Mai Tai in 2024

White rum is a versatile ingredient that can be found in many cocktails, and it's often used in tropical drinks like the Mai Tai. White rum is typically aged for a short time, which gives it a light and crisp flavor that is perfect for mixing.

When looking for the best white rum for your Mai Tai, there are a few things to consider. First, you want to look for a rum that is smooth and not too harsh. A good white rum should have a slightly sweet flavor with notes of vanilla and caramel. Additionally, you want to look for a rum that has a high alcohol content, which will help to balance out the sweetness of the other ingredients in the cocktail.

One of our top picks for the best white rum for a Mai Tai is Plantation 3 Stars White Rum. This rum is a blend of rums from Barbados, Jamaica, and Trinidad, which gives it a unique flavor profile. It has a smooth and slightly sweet taste with hints of tropical fruit and vanilla. It also has a high alcohol content of 41.2%, which makes it perfect for mixing.

Another great option is Bacardi Superior White Rum. This rum has been a popular choice for cocktails for over 150 years, and for good reason. It has a clean and crisp flavor with notes of citrus and vanilla. It also has a high alcohol content of 40%, which makes it a great choice for mixing.

If you want to know what Rum is - make sure to read our thorough Rum guide

In conclusion, when looking for the best white rum for your Mai Tai, you want to look for a rum that is smooth, slightly sweet, and has a high alcohol content. Our top picks, Plantation 3 Stars White Rum and Bacardi Superior White Rum, both fit these criteria and will help to make your Mai Tai taste even better.

Mai Tai (Trader Vic's) Cocktail

Best White Rums for Mai Tais

We've scoured the market to find the best white rums that will elevate your Mai Tai cocktail experience. A good white rum should have a smooth finish and a subtle sweetness that complements the other ingredients in the cocktail. We've tasted and tested various options to bring you our top picks. So, whether you're a seasoned Mai Tai drinker or a newbie to the cocktail scene, our list of the best white rums for Mai Tais has got you covered.

Mango Mai Tai Cocktail

Bacardi BACARD Superior White Rum

If you're looking for a versatile white rum to use in your cocktails, Bacardi BACARD Superior is a great choice. It has a smooth and light taste with a refreshing finish and notes of toasted vanilla and citrus. Plus, it's the original rum used in iconic cocktails like the Daiquiri, Mojito, and Piña Colada.

Pros

• Smooth and light taste
• Refreshing finish with notes of toasted vanilla and citrus
• Versatile for use in a variety of cocktails

Cons

• Not as complex as some other white rums
• Some may prefer a higher proof for their cocktails
• May not stand out as much in certain cocktails

We found that Bacardi BACARD is a great choice for a variety of cocktails, including the Mai Tai. Its light and refreshing taste allows the other flavors in the cocktail to shine, while still providing a solid rum base. Overall, we highly recommend Bacardi for anyone looking for a versatile and reliable white rum for their cocktails.

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Mai Tai Mocktail Cocktail

Ron Zacapa No. 23 Rum Aged

We highly recommend the Ron Zacapa No. 23 Rum Aged for those looking for the best white rum for mai tai. Its unique blend of aged rums and French oak aging process creates a rich and complex flavor profile that perfectly complements the tropical flavors of a mai tai.

Pros

• The exclusive Solera aging process creates a balanced combination of sweetness, spices, fruit, and alcohol.
• The rich mahogany color and intense red hues add to its appeal.
• The complex aromas of toasted oak, burnt caramel, dry roasted nuts, marzipan, and orange peel make it a pleasure to sip on its own or with ice.

Cons

• The price point may be a bit high for some.
• The wait time for delivery may be longer than expected.
• The sweetness may not be to everyone's taste.

The Zacapa No. 23 is a versatile rum that can be enjoyed on its own or in a variety of cocktails, including the classic mai tai. Its unique flavor profile adds depth and complexity to the tropical flavors of pineapple, lime, and orange, making for a truly exceptional mai tai experience.

Whether you're a seasoned rum connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of white rum, the Zacapa No. 23 is a must-try. Its smooth and complex flavor profile is sure to impress, and its versatility makes it a great addition to any home bar.

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The Kraken Black Spiced Rum

If you're looking for a unique and flavorful white rum, The Kraken is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The Kraken is made with a blend of dark Caribbean rums and 13 secret spices, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile.
• The rum has a distinctively dark color and a strong, spicy aroma that opens up to reveal notes of ginger and a light licorice finish.
• The Kraken is a versatile rum that can be enjoyed neat or used as a key ingredient in a variety of cocktails.

Cons

• The Kraken's strong and spicy flavor may not be to everyone's taste.
• The rum's dark color may make it less visually appealing in certain cocktails.
• The Kraken is a relatively expensive rum, which may make it less accessible to some consumers.

We highly recommend Kraken for use in Mai Tais and other tropical cocktails. The rum's complex flavor profile and spicy notes pair perfectly with the sweet and fruity flavors found in these types of drinks. Additionally, the rum's unique dark color can add an interesting visual element to your cocktails, making them stand out from the crowd.

When using Kraken in your Mai Tais, we recommend using a light hand and allowing the rum's distinctive flavor to shine through. The rum's spicy notes can help to balance out the sweetness of the other ingredients, resulting in a perfectly balanced and delicious cocktail.

Overall, we believe that Kraken is a high-quality and flavorful white rum that is well worth the investment. Whether you're a seasoned rum aficionado or just looking to try something new, this rum is sure to impress.

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Devil's Share Cutwater

If you're looking for a unique and fruity white rum, The Devil's Share Cutwater is a great option to consider.

Pros

• This rum has a fresh and fruity taste that's perfect for sipping or mixing into classic white rum cocktails.
• The blend of Jamaican and Barbadian rums creates a unique and perfectly balanced flavor profile.
• The aromas of mango, pimento, and fresh thyme give this rum a distinct and enjoyable scent.

Cons

• Some drinkers may find the flavor too intense or overpowering for their tastes.
• The price point may be a bit higher than some other white rums on the market.
• The bottle design may not be to everyone's liking.

Overall, we think The Devil's Share is a great choice for anyone who wants to try something new and exciting in the world of white rum. Its fruity and fresh taste is perfect for sipping on its own or mixing into classic cocktails like a Mai Tai. Speaking of which, this rum would make an excellent addition to any Mai Tai recipe, as the tropical fruit flavors would complement the other ingredients perfectly. Whether you're a rum enthusiast or just looking for a new drink to try, The Devil's Share is definitely worth considering.

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Plantation Original Dark Rum

If you're looking for a smooth and flavorful rum to add to your collection, we highly recommend Plantation Original Dark Rum.

Pros

• Rich, smooth flavor with a deep structure that makes it an ideal companion for cocktails.
• A blend of twin-aged rum from Barbados and pot still Jamaican rum aged between 10-15 years.
• Fruity palate with white raisin and dried pineapple, followed by spicy and peppery notes, with a definitive fruity and spicy finish.

Cons

• Some may find it too sweet.
• The vanilla flavor may be overpowering for some.
• The price may be a bit steep for some budgets.

As for why this rum is perfect for a Mai Tai, the fruity and spicy notes of Plantation complement the almond and citrus flavors of the classic cocktail. It's also smooth enough to be sipped on its own, making it a versatile addition to any home bar. Whether you're mixing up a classic Mai Tai or savoring a glass of rum on the rocks, Plantation won't disappoint.

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Diplomatico Reserva

If you're looking for a premium white rum that can make your Mai Tai taste even better, Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva Rum is a great choice.

Pros

• The fruity and sweet aroma of this rum adds a unique flavor to your Mai Tai.
• The exotic fruit and dark chocolate notes in the taste make it a great sipping rum as well.
• The long-lasting finish of the rum leaves a pleasant aftertaste.

Cons

• The price point of this rum is higher than some other white rums on the market.
• Some people might find the sweetness of the rum overwhelming.
• The rum might not be suitable for those who prefer a drier taste.

We have used Diplomatico Reserva in our Mai Tai cocktails and have found that it adds a distinct and delicious flavor to the drink. The fruity and sweet aroma of the rum complements the citrus and almond flavors in the Mai Tai, making it a perfect match.

Aside from its use in cocktails, this rum is also a great sipping rum. The exotic fruit and dark chocolate notes in the taste make it a complex and enjoyable rum to drink on its own. The long-lasting finish of the rum leaves a pleasant aftertaste, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a good sipping rum.

While the price point of this rum is higher than some other white rums on the market, we believe that the unique flavor and quality of the rum make it worth the investment. However, some people might find the sweetness of the rum overwhelming, and it might not be suitable for those who prefer a drier taste.

Overall, if you're looking for a premium white rum that can elevate your Mai Tai cocktails and provide a great sipping experience, Diplomatico Reserva is definitely worth trying.

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Gustoso Artisanal

If you're looking for a white rum that's perfect for making a Mai Tai, then Gustoso Artisanal should be on your list. It's a light and velvety rum that's easy to mix and has a pleasant taste.

Pros

• Gustoso Artisanal is a white rum that's aged up to four years, giving it a light and velvety taste.
• The distillation process of Pampero is of high quality and is a standard for Venezuelan rum.
• It's a light, fresh, clean, sweet, fruity, and intense rum that's perfect as a base for delicate rum cocktails like the Mojito.

Cons

• Some people may find the taste too light for their liking.
• It's not the cheapest white rum on the market.
• The bottle design may not be to everyone's taste.

When it comes to making a Mai Tai, Gustoso Artisanal is an excellent choice. Its light and velvety taste make it perfect for mixing with other ingredients, such as orange curaçao and orgeat syrup. The rum's fruity notes add a pleasant flavor to the cocktail, making it taste better than using a standard white rum.

We've found that Gustoso Artisanal is easy to mix, and it doesn't overpower the other ingredients in the cocktail. It's a rum that's perfect for those who like their Mai Tai to have a subtle, fruity taste.

Overall, we highly recommend Gustoso Artisanal for those looking for a white rum that's perfect for making a Mai Tai. Its light and velvety taste, along with its high-quality distillation process, make it a great choice for any cocktail enthusiast.

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El Dorado White Rum

If you're looking for a white rum that will take your cocktails to the next level, then El Dorado is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The blend of French Savalle and column distilled rum creates a unique and fresh taste.
• The aromas of vanilla, chocolate, and sultanas are prominent, making it perfect for cocktails.
• It has a long and dry finish with fruity notes.

Cons

• It might be a bit too expensive for some people.
• The taste might be too strong for those who prefer milder white rums.
• Some people might not like the fruity notes in their cocktails.

We highly recommend El Dorado for those who want to make the best Mai Tai. The unique blend of French Savalle and column distilled rum creates a fresh taste that perfectly complements the other ingredients in a Mai Tai. The aromas of vanilla, chocolate, and sultanas also add depth and complexity to the cocktail, making it even more enjoyable. The long and dry finish with fruity notes is also a great addition to the overall taste of the Mai Tai.

Overall, El Dorado White Rum is a great choice for those who want to elevate their cocktail game. Its unique blend and aromas make it perfect for Mai Tais and other cocktails, while its long and dry finish with fruity notes adds depth and complexity to any drink.

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Matusalem Rum

If you want to enjoy a premium white rum, Matusalem Platino is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Matusalem Rum is a legendary and independent rum with a versatile and extraordinary finish that is appreciated worldwide.
• It is an excellent white rum for cocktails, with a sophisticated, delicate, and subtly contemporary flavor.
• Platino is a Solera-aged rum with exceptional taste, distilled according to the pioneering Solera method that creates a smoother rum with a richer flavor.

Cons

• Some people may find it too expensive compared to other white rums on the market.
• It may not be the best choice for those who prefer sweeter rums.
• The bottle design may not appeal to everyone.

Matusalem is a great choice for a Mai Tai cocktail. This premium white rum's complex and creamy palate, with flavors of fondant, coffee, and a subtle note of cinnamon, is enhanced by a light finish of toasted and spicy coconut. The low sugar content of only 3.8 grams per liter makes it a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a delicious cocktail without too much sweetness.

We highly recommend Matusalem for those who want to enjoy a premium white rum that can be enjoyed straight or mixed in cocktails. Its exceptional taste, versatility, and legendary status make it a must-try for rum lovers.

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Banks 5 Island Blend Premium White Rum

If you want a premium white rum that can make your cocktails stand out, Banks 5 Island Blend Premium White Rum is worth considering.

Pros

• This blend of 20 different rums from 8 distilleries in 5 countries creates a unique flavor profile that can elevate any cocktail.
• The aroma is complex, with notes of cinnamon, vanilla, dark chocolate, basil, habanero, and green apple, among others.
• The Batavia Arrack from Java, which is aged in teak casks, adds an oriental twist to the blend and helps tie the different rums together.

Cons

• This is a premium rum, so it's more expensive than some other options on the market.
• Some drinkers may find the flavor too complex or overpowering for their tastes.
• It may not be the best choice for those who prefer a more traditional, straightforward white rum flavor.

Banks 5 Island Blend is a versatile and complex rum that can add depth and flavor to any cocktail. We particularly recommend it for Mai Tais, as the blend's unique flavor profile can enhance the tropical notes in the drink. The cinnamon, vanilla, and dark chocolate notes in the rum can add warmth and richness to the Mai Tai, while the green apple and habanero notes can provide a subtle, spicy kick. Overall, if you're looking for a premium white rum that can take your cocktails to the next level, Banks 5 Island Blend is definitely worth trying.

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Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best white rum, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Alcohol Content

White rum typically has an alcohol content of 40% ABV (alcohol by volume). However, some brands may have a higher or lower alcohol content. It's important to check the label to ensure that you are getting the right amount of alcohol for your needs.

Age

Unlike dark rum, white rum is typically unaged. However, some brands may age their white rum for a short period of time to give it a smoother flavor. If you prefer a more complex flavor profile, look for a white rum that has been aged.

Distillation Method

White rum can be made using a variety of distillation methods, including pot stills, column stills, and continuous stills. Each method produces a slightly different flavor profile, so it's worth trying a few different types to see which you prefer.

Filtering

Some white rums are filtered to remove impurities and create a smoother flavor. Look for a white rum that has been filtered if you prefer a cleaner taste.

Best for Mai Tai

When selecting a white rum for Mai Tai, it's important to choose one with a smooth and balanced flavor profile. A good white rum for Mai Tai should have a subtle sweetness and a hint of vanilla, which will complement the other ingredients in the cocktail. Additionally, a white rum with a higher alcohol content will help balance out the sweetness of the other ingredients and create a more complex flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some top shelf white rum brands?

Some of the top shelf white rum brands include Bacardi Superior, Mount Gay Eclipse, Ron del Barrilito, and Flor de Caña Extra Dry.

What is the smoothest white rum?

The smoothest white rum is subjective and varies from person to person. However, some of the smoothest white rum brands include Ron Zacapa, Diplomatico Blanco, and Havana Club Añejo Blanco.

What is a good white rum for Piña Colada?

A good white rum for Piña Colada is Bacardi Superior. It has a light and smooth flavor that complements the sweet pineapple and coconut flavors in the cocktail.

What is a good white rum for Mai Tai?

A good white rum for Mai Tai is Plantation 3 Stars. It has a blend of three different rums from Jamaica, Barbados, and Trinidad, which gives it a complex and flavorful profile that pairs well with the other ingredients in the cocktail.

Is Malibu considered a white rum?

Malibu is not considered a white rum. It is a coconut-flavored rum liqueur that is made with Caribbean rum and coconut flavoring.

What is the difference between white rum and silver rum?

White rum and silver rum are interchangeable terms that refer to the same type of rum. They are clear and unaged rums that are typically used in cocktails.