Rum is more than just a spirit — it’s a journey through history, culture, and craftsmanship. From the sun-soaked Caribbean islands to the shores of South America and even Northern Colorado, each bottle of rum tells a unique story. Whether you enjoy a classic rum cocktail, a smooth sipping rum, or a rich, aged variety, Fort Collins has an exceptional selection of rums waiting to be explored.
At Mulberry MAX Liquor Store, we take pride in offering an extensive collection of premium rums from around the world, including from distillers in and near Fort Collins. Whether you’re a seasoned rum enthusiast or just beginning to explore this versatile spirit, our knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect bottle.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the different types of rum, explore the islands that produce them, and highlight why Mulberry MAX is the best place to find rum in Fort Collins.
A note to bourbon lovers: You should try rum!
Bourbon lovers looking to explore new sipping options without breaking the bank should consider giving rum a try. While bourbon is often celebrated for its rich, caramel notes and smooth finish, rum offers a unique range of flavors that can satisfy similar cravings, often at a more affordable price point. With rums spanning from light, crisp varieties to deep, aged expressions, there’s something for everyone. The molasses or sugarcane base in rum introduces subtle sweetness that complements its rich aging process, making it a worthy alternative for bourbon enthusiasts.
Affordable sipping rums, especially those from countries like Barbados, Guatemala, or the Dominican Republic, often showcase complex layers of vanilla, oak, and spice — similar to what bourbon drinkers appreciate. What’s more, rum can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks, and aged rums, in particular, offer a smooth and refined drinking experience that rivals many bourbons. By stepping into the world of rum, bourbon lovers can broaden their palates while keeping their budgets in check. With a bit of exploration, you might just find your next favorite sipping spirit.
What is rum? A brief introduction
Rum is a distilled alcoholic beverage made primarily from sugarcane byproducts, such as molasses or sugarcane juice. The production process, aging, and regional influences create a diverse range of flavors, from light and crisp to deep and complex.
What makes rum truly special is its global heritage. Unlike other spirits that are confined to specific regions, rum is produced in a variety of tropical climates, each bringing unique characteristics to the final product. It’s a fun category to explore,
The different types of rum
Not all rums are created equal. Understanding the different types can help you find the perfect rum for your next cocktail or sipping experience.
1. White rum (silver or light rum)
- Clear in color with a light, clean taste.
- Typically unaged or aged briefly in stainless steel or neutral barrels.
- Commonly used in cocktails like Mojitos, Daiquiris, and Piña Coladas.
- Popular brands: Bacardi, Plantation, Flor de Caña.
2. Gold rum (amber rum)
- Aged in oak barrels, giving it a richer flavor and golden hue.
- Has notes of caramel, vanilla, and mild spice.
- Great for cocktails but can also be sipped neat.
- Popular brands: Mount Gay, Appleton Estate, Brugal.
- Brands from Fort Collins and NoCo: Oacis, Spirit Hound, The Heart.
3. Dark Rum
- Aged for extended periods in charred barrels, resulting in deep, robust flavors.
- Features rich notes of molasses, toffee, chocolate, and dried fruit.
- Ideal for sipping or making classic cocktails like the Dark ‘n’ Stormy.
- Popular brands: Goslings, Diplomatico, Myers’s Rum.
4. Spiced Rum
- Infused with spices such as cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Offers a sweet and aromatic profile, perfect for mixing.
- Often used in classic rum and Coke or festive holiday drinks.
- Popular brands: Captain Morgan, Kraken, Sailor Jerry.
5. Añejo and Aged Rum
- Aged for several years in wooden barrels, developing complexity.
- Comparable to fine whiskey or cognac, ideal for sipping neat or on the rocks.
- Notes of oak, spice, caramel, and dried fruit.
- Popular brands: Ron Zacapa, El Dorado, Kirk & Sweeney.
6. Overproof Rum
- Bottled at a higher alcohol content (often above 50% ABV).
- Intense, aromatic and fiery, used sparingly in cocktails or for flamed drinks.
- Popular brands: Smith & Cross,, Plantation OFTD.
The islands of rum: Where it’s made and what makes it unique
Rum production spans the Caribbean, South America, and even parts of the Pacific. Each region has its own distinct style, shaped by local traditions and aging techniques.
1. Barbados: The birthplace of rum
Barbados is home to some of the oldest rum distilleries in the world. The rums here are smooth, well-balanced, and often aged in bourbon barrels.
- Notable brands: Mount Gay, Foursquare, Doorly’s.
2. Jamaica: Bold and funky
Jamaican rums are known for their rich, funky flavors due to the use of wild fermentation and pot still distillation. These rums have strong tropical fruit and spice notes.
- Notable brands: Appleton Estate, Hampden Estate, Smith & Cross.
3. Puerto Rico: Home of light rums
Puerto Rico produces some of the most famous light-bodied rums, perfect for cocktails. The rums here are typically column-distilled and filtered for a clean, crisp profile.
- Notable brands: Bacardi, Don Q.
4. The Dominican Republic: Smooth and aged
Dominican rums are often aged longer, creating smooth and rich flavors with caramel and vanilla notes.
- Notable brands: Brugal, Barceló.
5. Cuba: Iconic and refined
Cuban rum has a long-standing reputation for being refined and smooth. While harder to find in the U.S., Cuban-style rums are sought after worldwide.
- Notable brands: Havana Club, Santiago de Cuba.
6. Martinique: The terroir of Rhum Agricole
Unlike most rums, Martinique’s Rhum Agricole is made from fresh sugarcane juice instead of molasses, giving it a grassy, earthy character.
- Notable brands: Rhum Clément, Rhum J.M.
7. Guyana: Heavy and rich demerara rum
Demerara rum from Guyana is known for its bold, rich flavors, often used in tiki cocktails and aged blends.
- Notable brands: El Dorado, Lemon Hart.
Where to buy rum in Fort Collins: Mulberry MAX Liquor Store
If you’re looking for the best selection of rum in Fort Collins, look no further than Mulberry MAX Liquor Store. We offer an impressive variety of rums from across the globe, whether you’re searching for a premium sipping rum or a versatile mixer for cocktails.
Why choose Mulberry MAX for rum?
✅ Extensive selection — We carry top brands from the Caribbean, South America, and beyond.
✅ Knowledgeable staff — Need a recommendation? Our team can help you find the perfect rum for any occasion.
✅ Competitive prices — Get premium quality rums at great prices.
✅ Convenient location — Located in Fort Collins, we’re your go-to liquor store for all things rum.
The best rum cocktails to try
Want to put your rum to good use? Here are a few classic cocktails to try:
1. Classic Mojito
- 2 oz white rum
- 1 oz lime juice
- 2 tsp sugar
- 6 mint leaves
- Soda water
Muddle mint and sugar, add rum and lime juice, top with soda water.
2. Dark ‘n’ Stormy
- 2 oz dark rum
- 4 oz ginger beer
- Lime wedge
Pour ginger beer over ice, float rum on top, garnish with lime.
3. Rum Old Fashioned
- 2 oz aged rum
- ¼ ounce simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel
Add rum, bitters and simple syrup to a cocktail tin, stir with ice, garnish with orange peel.
Conclusion: Your Fort Collins destination for rum
Whether you’re looking for a smooth aged rum, a spiced variety, or a light rum for cocktails, Mulberry MAX Liquor Store has everything you need. As the premier Fort Collins liquor store, we offer an unparalleled selection of rums from the world’s top producers.
We’re located at 460 S. College Ave, next to Target at College and Mulberry. Stop by today and explore the best rum selection in Fort Collins!