Whether you prefer yours white, dark or spiced, rum is a liquor that speaks for itself. Whilst a good rum can certainly be enjoyed on its own, sometimes a mixer - a partner in crime to that Caribbean goodness - is just what you need to satisfy your craving. Rum mixers come in all different forms and flavors, so which is best for your drink?
The Quest for the Perfect Mixer
Like any relationship compatibility is key. Except here we’re not talking about finances and life goals: we need flavor compatibility with our rum. This is the basic foundation I always approach my mixer pairings from. If the flavors don’t match, it’s just not going to work out.
That means I generally prefer dark rum with coke to balance out the sweetness. I’d also be reluctant to mix a spiced rum with ginger beer because the spiciness of the ginger beer will overpower and mask the spices in the rum.
Keep this in mind as you choose which mixer to pair with your rum. Whilst many of the ones I’ve listed below are versatile and can be used with all types of liquor you do still need to consider the flavor profiles and how they interact. The name of the game is to elevate, not overpower.
The Top 10 Mixers for Rum
Whether you want to whip up a fruity cocktail or have a more low key, neutral drink these rum mixers will have you feeling refreshed in no time.
Coke
It goes without saying that rum and coke is a timeless classic. The caramel sweetness of the coke blends seamlessly with the warmth of the rum, making for an irresistible combination. Want a sour kick? Add a squeeze of lime and you have yourself a Cuba Libre.
Coconut Water
This natural and refreshing mixer is a match made in heaven for rum. It adds a subtle, tropical sweetness that enhances the rum without overpowering it. It tastes even better when the rum is poured into and drank directly from a freshly opened coconut on a tropical beach. Those of us stuck in colder climes will need to stick with store bought, though (unfortunately!).
Pineapple Juice
Without pineapple juice there would no Pina Colada, no Painkiller, and no rum punch. In fact, the list of tiki cocktails would be much smaller. It’s fair to say, then, that this tropical juice is an indispensable rum mixer. Even without all the other ingredients, when mixed with something like a Kraken or Captain Morgan’s pineapple juice hits the right spot every time.
Ginger Beer
Ginger beer is the main ingredient in a Dark ‘n’ Stormy. Need I say more? Getting beyond the famous cocktail, ginger beer works well as a mixer for white rums too and if you’re short on lime juice or bitters making a simple rum and ginger beer mixed drink can still be a refreshing treat. For those who like a bold, spicy kick to their drink ginger beer is a must-try rum mixer.
Lime Juice
A staple in many classic rum cocktails - think Daiquiri, Mojito and rum sour - lime is an essential mixer for rum. The zesty tang of lime juice cuts through the sweetness of rum, creating a balanced and refreshing drink. Sometimes the simplest of ingredients are the best.
Soda Water
If you prefer your rum cocktails on the lighter side, soda water is the perfect companion. It adds a fizzy lift without overpowering the rum's flavor. It's ideal for a rum highball or a spritzy rum and soda.
Mango Juice
Mango adds a lush, tropical sweetness to rum that's hard to beat. It's perfect for fruity cocktail lovers. Mix it in a Mango Mojito or a rum punch to add a vibrant twist to your drink. If you can’t find mango juice you can always use puree, or even better buy some fresh mangoes and make your own.
Orange Juice
Another classic citrus option, orange juice brings a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with rum. I like to use freshly squeezed juice with pulp to bring a little more character to my rum and OJ.
Tonic Water
The slightly bitter and sweet profile of tonic water can create interesting and complex rum cocktails. It's a great mixer if you want a simple drink that also adds a bit of an edge to your rum tasting experience.
Iced Tea
For a unique twist, try mixing rum with iced tea. The subtle tannins of the tea complement the sweetness of the rum, creating a sophisticated and refreshing drink. It’s definitely an unconventional choice but somehow it works.
Conclusion
Each of these mixers brings out a different side of rum, from its tropical sweetness to its rich depth. So, whether you want to try your hand at making a classic cocktail or you just want a “quick and easy” rum mixed drink, experiment with these different flavors and see which works best for you.
