5 Jamaican Rum Brands Loved By Actual Jamaicans

Jamaica is an exporter of countless goods consumed around the globe, one of which was a major draw to the island last week, as the nation highlighted some of its finest rums at the 2024 Jamaican Rum Festival on July 18 in Montego Bay.

The experience consisted of several brands native to the land offering samples of their coveted goods to the masses, who sipped on cocktails, moved to the sounds of dancehall tunes, played party games, enjoyed plenty of food offerings and seminars, and more. With an overwhelming amount of attendees being born and bred Jamaicans, this was the perfect opportunity for my American self to really observe what the people of the island love, as opposed to just googling the thoughts of some fellow yankee with an affection for overproofs.

Guests who withstood some tricky weather were rewarded with live performances that evening from artists such as Joby Jay, Harry Toddler and the King Of Dancehall himself, Beenie Man, who wrapped up his hit-heavy set — which was backed by an orchestra — with his ever-so-appropriate 2011 smash “Rum & Redbull.”

While the tunes enhanced the evening, let’s get to why you’re here. Based on my own observations, these were the rums favored most by Jamaicans during the annual event.

Wray & Nephew

Image Credit: David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images for Wray & Nephew.

Wray & Nephew’s inclusion on this list should come as no surprise to even layman rum connoisseurs, as it is one of the best known and loved Jamaican rums globally. From Notting Hill to Flatbush Ave, it’s a prime selection, and the case is no different at home. In fact, it’s often gifted on special occasions and is a staple in many Jamaican households.

As it’s an overproof rum, it packs a pungent punch out the gate, incorporating notes of caramel, molasses and various spices before banana, orange zest, and pineapple give it a fruity funk that eventually evens itself out on the palate for a rich, smooth finish. Even with its assertive aroma and potency, it blends well into various cocktails (as long your bartender doesn’t go too crazy), and was a favorite among those visiting the brand’s activation during the festival.

Recommendation: Wray & Nephew White Rum

Rum-Bar

Image Credit: Rum-Bar promo photo.

This Worthy Park Estate brand is a relative newcomer amongst peers that have been established for centuries. Even still, the 2007 creation has garnered a loyal fanbase on the island thanks to its high-quality, affordability, and offerings suited for any occasion.

While their award-winning White Overproof option is a favorite, both their Rum Cream and Gold editions stood out for me, with the latter providing a beautiful scent of almonds and marmalade upon first whiff. It’s fruitier on the palate, with notes of green apple and pineapple peaking through the pot-stilled molasses as it evens out with caramel and what I interpret as brown sugar on the finish.

They also had the the best dance team in the joint, so there’s that!

Recommendation: Rum-Bar Jamaican Gold Rum

Rum Fire

Image Credit: Hampden Estate Rum

The Rum Fire booth was, well, on FIRE, during the festival, with guests crowding the charismatic bartenders with outstretched empty cups, looking for a taste of the local favorite.

The Hampden Estate brand describes the profile of Rum Fire’s White Overproof as “powerful and funky,” and they damn sure ain’t lying, providing a kick of rich spices, tropical fruits such as overripe banana and mango, and even a bit of smoke (hence, the fire in its name) within its rich aroma. Those fruits carry over into it’s peppery taste on the palate before all is combined for a balanced finish.

Even while a powerful overproof, Rum Fire was made with mixology in mind, so no need to worry about it overpowering your cocktail. Whether mixed or taken as a straight shot, be ready to up the heat with this Jamaican fave.

Recommendation: Rum Fire White Overproof Rum

Monymusk

Image Credit: Monymusk

I was a big fan of Monymusk Plantation’s Classic Gold at the event, both neat and worked into their signature “Monyrita” recipe, which I toted around the grounds for the few minutes it remained in my festival tumbler.

Neat, this spicy rum provides a fruity aroma that transfers to the palate beautifully, with notes of vanilla and caramel creeping through, as well, lending themselves to its smooth finish. Definitely a hit for the crowd in attendance.

Recommendation: Monymusk Classic Gold Rum

Appleton Estate

Image Credit: Appleton Estate

Co-sponsors of the event, Appleton Estate was not only well represented, but well received, with several attendees clamoring for samples and cocktails from the revered rum producers.

It’s most accessible option, the Signature Blend, pushes an aroma of peaches and dried apricots in it’s fruit-forward opening, with molasses providing a richness that can both stand alone, and compliment many a cocktail, as it did on this blessed day. A clear favorite among the homeland crowd.

Recommendation: Appleton Estate Signature Blend