Rum, a beloved spirit crafted from high-quality sugarcane juice or molasses, offers a unique and enjoyable taste. While popular year-round, rum is particularly appreciated during India’s cold winters, adding a special warmth to the season. With hundreds of rum brands available in the Indian liquor market, choosing the perfect blend of affordability and flavor can be challenging. To help you navigate this diverse landscape, we’ve compiled a list of six top-selling and highly-reviewed rum brands, highlighting their features and availability in India.
Old Monk
Old Monk, launched in 1954 by Mohan Meakin Ltd. in India, holds a significant place in the hearts of rum enthusiasts. This iconic rum is renowned for its smooth, rich flavor with prominent notes of caramel, chocolate, and vanilla, accompanied by a distinctive aroma of molasses and dried fruits. Over the decades, Old Monk has garnered numerous awards, including several gold medals at international spirits competitions, underscoring its consistent quality and loyal following.
With an alcohol strength of 42.8% ABV, Old Monk is available in various packaging sizes in India, including 180ml, 375ml, 500ml, 750ml, and 1 liter. The brand offers a few variants, such as Old Monk Supreme, Old Monk XXX, and Old Monk White Rum, with Old Monk XXX being the most famous. The average price for a 750ml bottle of Old Monk XXX in India is approximately INR 700, and it enjoys an average rating of 4.5 stars in the country.
Bacardi White Rum
Bacardi, founded in 1862 in Cuba by Facundo Bacardí Massó and now headquartered in Bermuda, is one of the most renowned rum brands globally. Bacardi rum is celebrated for its light and balanced flavor profile, featuring notes of almond, vanilla, and tropical fruits, making it exceptionally versatile for cocktails. The brand has won numerous awards, including multiple gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and other prestigious events.
Bacardi typically has an alcohol strength of 40% ABV and is available in India in various sizes, including 180ml, 375ml, 500ml, 750ml, and 1 liter. The brand offers a wide range of variants, such as Bacardi Superior, Bacardi Gold, Bacardi Black, and Bacardi 151, with Bacardi Superior being the most famous. The average price for a 750ml bottle of Bacardi Superior in India is approximately INR 1,500, and it enjoys an average rating of 4.3 stars in the country.
Seven Rivers Rum
Seven Rivers, a relatively new entrant in the Indian rum market launched in 2019 by Seven Rivers Brewing Co., has quickly gained popularity for its smooth and refined taste with notes of vanilla, caramel, and spices, offering a modern twist on traditional rum flavors. Despite its recent launch, Seven Rivers has already started to gain recognition, winning local awards for its innovative approach and quality.
With an alcohol strength of 42.8% ABV, Seven Rivers rum is typically available in 750ml bottles in India. The brand currently offers a couple of variants, with Seven Rivers Gold Rum being the most popular. The average price for a 750ml bottle of Seven Rivers Gold Rum in India is approximately INR 1,000, and it enjoys an average rating of 4.2 stars in the country.
Captain Morgan
Captain Morgan, launched in 1944 by Seagram’s in Jamaica and now owned by Diageo, has become one of the most popular rum brands globally. Known for its smooth and spicy taste, Captain Morgan features notes of vanilla, brown sugar, and a hint of oak, making it ideal for mixing in cocktails. The brand has won several awards, including accolades at the International Wine & Spirit Competition and other industry events.
Captain Morgan typically has an alcohol strength of 35% to 40% ABV, depending on the variant, and is available in India in sizes including 180ml, 375ml, 500ml, 750ml, and 1 liter. The brand offers several variants, including Captain Morgan Original Spiced Gold, Captain Morgan Black, and Captain Morgan White Rum, with Captain Morgan Original Spiced Gold being the most famous. The average price for a 750ml bottle of Captain Morgan Original Spiced Gold in India is approximately INR 1,400, and it enjoys an average rating of 4.4 stars in the country.
Commander N Chief
Commander N Chief, another notable rum brand, offers a robust and distinct flavor profile. Known for its rich and full-bodied taste with hints of spices and oak, Commander N Chief has made a name for itself in the rum market. The brand has received recognition and awards for its quality and craftsmanship.
With an alcohol strength of 42.8% ABV, Commander N Chief rum is available in various sizes in India, including 180ml, 375ml, 500ml, 750ml, and 1 liter. The brand offers a few variants, with the most popular being Commander N Chief Premium Dark Rum. The average price for a 750ml bottle of Commander N Chief Premium Dark Rum in India is approximately INR 900, and it enjoys an average rating of 4.2 stars in the country.
McDowell’s No.1 Rum
McDowell’s No.1 Rum, launched by United Spirits Limited (a Diageo Group company), is one of the largest selling rum brands in India. Known for its smooth and rich taste, McDowell’s No.1 features notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice, making it a well-rounded and versatile rum. It has won several awards, including accolades at the Monde Selection and other international competitions.
