The classic Old Fashioned is the gift that keeps on giving. The simple template of sweetener, bitters, and spirit leaves room for personalization, preference, and endless riffs like this Rum Old Fashioned. This version calls for a split base of dark rums; Caribbean and pineapple rum, aromatic bitters, and sweetener. The Spiced Apple Old Fashioned is another delicious recipe that introduces different flavors, sweetness, and spice.

You might be wondering, can you make an old-fashioned with rum? The answer is YES! While this may not be the old-fashioned that you’re used to, these spiced tropical flavors might become your new favorite drink. You can use many rums, but dark rum is the best choice since we rely heavily on the aged oaky notes to pair with the bitters/spices and sweeteners.

INGREDIENTS

Simple Syrup for a touch of sweetness and texture. I used a 1:1 recipe of sugar and hot water.
Aromatic Bitters for spice and balance. Angostura bitters are my go-to, but any aromatic bitter will work.
Dark Rum, a Caribbean and spiced rum, are ideal.

How to make a Rum Old Fashioned

Add your syrup, bitters, rum, and ice to a mixing glass. Stir to chill and dilute, then pour over a large ice cube.
Express orange oil over the glass and garnish with an orange twist

Best rum for this cocktail

Ten to One Dark Caribbean rum is a blend of 8-year-old Barbados and Dominican column still rums combined with high-ester Jamaican pot still rum and Trinidadian rum. Aged in American white oak ex-bourbon casks.
Appleton Estate is a full-bodied premium aged rum that boasts a warm golden color, rich aroma, and sophisticated flavor.
Plantation Pineapple rum is rich and delicious bouquet accented by smoky notes and aromas of tropical fruit, pineapple, citrus peel, and a touch of clove.

If you like this rum old fashioned, check out these other cocktails

Spiced Apple Old Fashioned

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Old Fashioned

Lion’s Tail Cocktail

Blackberry and Brown Sugar Bramble