Courtesy Diaego

Cocktails, 365 Rating: ★★★☆☆

For a long time, the white rum game has been dominated by Bacardi.

Reasonably priced, and a fine white rum to boot, Bacardi Superior has been the de rigueur choice for those wanting to mix it up with white. Sure, there have been some brands in recent years who have tried to come at the king, many focusing a premium-end position. However, when it comes to affordable whites, the $15 price point clearly and explicitly puts Captain Morgan on Bacardi’s radar.

And, truth-be-told, it was a bold move for Captain Morgan anyway, breaking rank with the line of spiced rums to explore a wider portfolio.

Nose

This has a very light scent, with bits of vanilla and event some citrus. It’s a softer smell than Bacardi, but has an interesting bit of astringent on the end. It almost has a vodka-like scent, bringing to mind the clear and crisp bite of sweeter vodkas.

Neat

It’s fruity, with bits of green apple. It’s not as sweet as the nose would make you think, but again we start having flashbacks to vodka versus rum. It doesn’t have the same hint of bitterness that mars Bacardi’s white offering, finishing off on the palate with a bit of white pepper and grass.

On the Rocks

The flavors go a bit heavier, and much sweeter. This would be a surprisingly pleasant sipper, if it weren’t for the little hint of bite on the end. Adding a twist of lime and a dash of seltzer actually builds a pleasant little spritzer.

Verdict

This is definitely a pleasant white rum, relatively well-balanced, and mixes quite well. While it’s not going to go up against 10 Cane, you’re also not shelling out $30+ for a white. Captain Morgan’s foray into the world of white is an auspicious one to be sure, and will definitely give Bacardi a run for their money.

Mark Vierthaler is the founder and Editor of Cocktails, 365. His work appeared in The Tasting Panel Magazine, Savvy Host, Liquor.com, and countless other websites and blogs. He is Bar Smarts certified, and works with bars and restaurants in cocktail creation and pairing. To contact him, e-mail cocktails365@markvierthaler.com