When it comes to making the perfect mojito, using the right ingredients is key. One of the most important components is the white rum. With so many options on the liquor store shelves, it can be tricky to know which type of white rum works best in this classic Cuban cocktail.
What is White Rum?
Rum is distilled from molasses or sugarcane byproducts and then aged in oak barrels. White rum is clear in color and is aged for a very short time or not aged at all. It has a light, crisp, clean taste without much oak influence. White rum tends to be more affordable and mixable than gold or dark rums.
Some popular brands of white rum include Bacardi, Don Q, Cruzan, and Havana Club. Within the white rum category, there are a few more specific types to consider:
- Light or Silver Rum: Very light bodied and mild in flavor, best for cocktails
- Filtered or Clean Rum: Charcoal filtered to remove impurities, crisp flavor
- Overproof Rum: Higher alcohol content (60% ABV or more)
For a mojito, you’ll want to use a light or filtered white rum to complement the bright mint and lime flavors.
Factors to Consider
Here are a few key factors to think about when choosing a white rum for mojitos:
Flavor Profile
Since a mojito contains relatively few ingredients, the rum’s flavor really shines through. Look for a white rum with a crisp, clean taste and subtle vanilla/cane sugar notes. Avoid spiced rums or rums with a strong oak influence as they will overpower the other mojito ingredients.
Price Point
White rum for cocktails need not be expensive. Save the pricier aged rums for sipping. A decent quality light rum under $20/bottle is perfect for mojitos. Some good value options are Cruzan Estate Light Rum or Don Q Cristal.
ABV Percentage
The alcohol by volume (ABV) or proof of the rum will impact the flavor intensity and potency. Most light white rums are 80 proof (40% ABV). Higher proof rums will taste more alcoholic in the cocktail. For an optimal balance, stick with 80 proof.
Region of Production
White rum originates from various Caribbean islands, each with their own style. Jamaican rums are rich and funky. Puerto Rican rums are smooth and clean. Cuban rums are light and subtle. For a mojito, the Puerto Rican style complements the drink best.
Best White Rums for Mojitos
Taking all these factors into account, here are some of the best white rums to use in a classic mojito:
| Brand | Style | Taste Notes | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bacardi Superior | Light Rum | Crisp, clean, subtle vanilla | Under $20 |
| Havana Club 3 Year | Light Rum | Lemony, honeyed, touch of oak | Around $20 |
| Don Q Cristal | Filtered Rum | Floral, fruity, smooth | Under $20 |
| Cruzan Estate Light | Light Rum | Bright, crisp, cane sugar | Under $15 |
You really can’t go wrong with Bacardi Superior, the classic light-bodied rum that balances perfectly in cocktails like the mojito. Havana Club adds a bit more flavor complexity if you want something bolder. Don Q Cristal is an affordable filtered option with a clean profile. Cruzan Estate Light is also budget-friendly and intensely crisp.
Rums to Avoid
On the flip side, here are some white rums that are not ideal for mojitos:
- Spiced rums (too much extra flavor)
- Overproof rums (too harsh and alcoholic)
- Aged or gold rums (oaky flavor clashes with mojito ingredients)
- Dark rums (overpowering caramel/molasses notes)
- Flavored rums (masks refreshing mint and lime)
Mixing the Perfect Mojito
Once you’ve selected an appropriate white rum, the next step is mixing the perfect mojito. Here is a simple mojito recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 oz white rum
- 3 lime wedges
- 12-15 mint leaves
- 2 tsp superfine sugar
- Soda water
- Crushed ice
- Garnish: mint sprig & lime wedge
Instructions
Add the mint leaves and lime wedges to a sturdy glass and gently muddle.
Add the sugar and a splash of soda water and stir until sugar dissolves.
Fill the glass almost to the top with crushed ice.
Pour in the white rum.
Top with more soda water and stir gently.
Garnish with a mint sprig and lime wedge.
Enjoy your authentic Cuban mojito!
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use aged or unaged white rum?
For a mojito, unaged white rum is usually best. Aged rum will impart more oak flavors that may clash with the lime and mint. An unaged or “light” rum will have a crisp, clean flavor that highlights the other ingredients.
Does the brand of rum matter?
The brand does matter to some degree, as different brands will have distinct flavor profiles. Some of the most popular brands for mojitos are Bacardi, Havana Club, and Don Q. Ultimately you can experiment with different brands to see which flavor profile you prefer.
Is overproof white rum good for mojitos?
Overproof rum has a higher alcohol content (60% ABV or more). This can make the flavor overly harsh and boozy in a mojito. For the best balance of flavors, stick with a standard proof white rum around 40% ABV.
Should I muddle the lime and mint?
Yes, it’s important to gently muddle or press the lime and mint in the glass to release their aromatic oils and flavors before adding the rum and other ingredients. Muddling is a key step in making an authentic tasting mojito.
What other ingredients can I add?
Simple is best, but some delicious tweaks include:
- Mango, raspberries or other fruits
- Coconut water instead of soda
- A splash of passionfruit or pineapple juice
- A few basil leaves
- A teaspoon of cane sugar syrup
Get creative with additional ingredients, but keep the rum, lime, mint and sugar as the core components.
Conclusion
A crisp, smooth white rum is the key to a perfect mojito. Balance the bright mint and lime flavors with a light-bodied Puerto Rican style rum like Bacardi Superior, Havana Club 3 Year, Don Q Cristal, or Cruzan Estate Light. Avoid spiced, flavored or overproof rums. Muddle the mint and lime gently before adding ice and a splash of soda. Finally, garnish with a mint sprig and lime wedge for an irresistible Cuban-inspired cocktail.
With high quality white rum and fresh ingredients, you’ll be a mojito master mixologist in no time!