Your Ultimate Guide to Captain Morgan Rums

Set sail on a journey of flavor with our ‘Ultimate Guide to Captain Morgan Rums.’ Uncover the rich history, diverse varieties, and tantalizing cocktails crafted by the legendary Captain Morgan. From classic spiced blends to exotic reserves, explore the essence of the Caribbean in each sip.

Before you buy rum from this cult brand, make sure to learn everything there is to know about it. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious novice, prepare to navigate the world of Captain Morgan Rums like never before.

What is the history of Captain Morgan rums?

Captain Morgan is a well-known brand of rum produced by the British alcohol conglomerate, Diageo. Here’s a brief history of Captain Morgan rums:

Origin of the Name: The brand was named after Sir Henry Morgan (1635–1688), a Welsh privateer who later became the Lieutenant Governor of Jamaica. As a privateer, Morgan fought on behalf of the English crown and carried out significant raids against Spanish holdings in the Caribbean.

Establishment: The Seagram Company, a Canadian multinational company, created the Captain Morgan Rum Company in 1945. Seagram began producing rum under the Captain Morgan name, taking advantage of the historical pirate’s connection to the Caribbean.

Jamaican Rum: Initially, the rum was made from the Levy Brothers distillery in Kingston, Jamaica. Seagram CEO Samuel Bronfman purchased a distillery named Long Pond from the Jamaican government. The Captain Morgan rum produced during this time was made using a centuries-old Jamaican recipe, resulting in a dark and rich flavour.

Puerto Rican Production: In the 1950s, the production of Captain Morgan rum was moved to Puerto Rico, where the rum is distilled in larger quantities and aged for a shorter period, resulting in a lighter, smoother flavour profile compared to its Jamaican predecessor.

Spiced Rum: Captain Morgan introduced its spiced rum in the U.S. in 1984, which quickly gained popularity and has since become the brand’s flagship product. The spiced variant features added flavours such as vanilla, caramel, and various spices, making it a favorite for mixed drinks.

Acquisition by Diageo: In 2001, Diageo acquired the Captain Morgan brand as a part of its purchase of several Seagram’s assets.

Expansion: Over the years, the Captain Morgan brand has introduced various rum variants, including flavoured rums (like coconut, pineapple, and grapefruit) and different expressions of their spiced rum, such as Captain Morgan Black and Captain Morgan 100 Proof.

Marketing: The brand’s marketing campaigns, featuring the iconic Captain Morgan pose (one leg raised and hands on hips) and the slogan “Got a little Captain in you?”, have played a vital role in establishing its place in popular culture.

Today, Captain Morgan is one of the top-selling rum brands in the world, known for its distinctive flavour and the iconic pirate mascot. The brand’s success can be attributed to its flavourful offerings, effective marketing campaigns, and the romantic allure of the pirate lore associated with its name.

What types of rum do Captain Morgan produce & what do they taste like?

Captain Morgan produces a variety of rum products, each with its unique flavour profile. Here’s are some of the most popular Captain Morgan rums and an idea of how they taste:

Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum

Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum has a smooth taste and is medium-bodied. It’s spiced and has notes of rich vanilla, brown sugar, and warming spices like cloves, with a slightly woody finish.

Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum

Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum is a bolder spiced rum that offers rich and intense flavours. It has notes of blackstrap molasses, caramel, dark cherries, cocoa, and vanilla, with a slightly smoky finish.

Captain Morgan White Rum

Captain Morgan White Rum is a lighter rum, it’s crisp and clean with a hint of sweetness. It has subtle fruity notes and is often used as a base for many tropical drinks.

Captain Morgan 100 Proof Spiced Rum

Captain Morgan 100 Proof Spiced Rum is a more robust version of the Original Spiced Rum, offering a stronger alcohol content. It has a similar flavour profile but with an intensified warmth and spiciness due to the higher alcohol content.

Captain Morgan LocoNut

Captain Morgan LocoNut is a delightful blend of Caribbean rum, coconut liqueur, spice, and natural flavours. It has a sweet, creamy coconut flavour, making it perfect for sipping or using in tropical-themed cocktails.

Captain Morgan Cannon Blast

Captain Morgan Cannon Blast has been designed to be a shot — this rum has an intense sweet and spicy flavour profile. It’s characterized by notes of citrus, chipotle peppers, and a slightly sweet finish.

Captain Morgan Apple Smash

Captain Morgan Apple Smash is a blend of Caribbean rum and green apple flavour. It has a crisp, fresh green apple taste with hints of tartness.

Captain Morgan Watermelon Smash

Captain Morgan Watermelon Smash has a juicy, ripe watermelon flavour. It’s sweet, slightly tart, and very refreshing.

Captain Morgan Pineapple, Grapefruit, and Coconut Rums

Each of these rums captures the essence of the respective fruit. They’re fruity, slightly sweet, and are perfect for tropical cocktails or for sipping on the rocks.

Captain Morgan Tiki

Captain Morgan Tiki is a tropical mix of pineapple and mango flavours combined with the Captain’s famous rum. It’s fruity, refreshing, and evokes beach vibes.

Over time, Captain Morgan has released numerous limited-edition and region-specific variants. The above list is by no means exhaustive but represents some of the brand’s core offerings and popular flavours. Remember that taste is subjective, so while these descriptions provide a general idea, individual experiences may vary.

What are the most popular flavours of Captain Morgan rums?

Captain Morgan has produced a range of flavours over the years, but some of the most popular and widely recognized flavours include:

• Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum: This is Captain Morgan’s flagship product. It boasts a perfect balance of Caribbean rum and a unique blend of spices, with notable flavours of vanilla, caramel, and a mix of secret spices
• Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum: A deeper, richer variant with flavours of cloves, blackstrap molasses, and dark cherries
• Captain Morgan White Rum: A lighter, crisper rum perfect for cocktails, it offers a clean and slightly sweet taste with subtle fruity notes
• Captain Morgan LocoNut: A blend of Caribbean rum, coconut liqueur, spice, and natural flavours, this rum is creamy with a dominant sweet coconut flavour.
• Captain Morgan Cannon Blast: Designed as a shot, this rum is intensely flavoured with a sweet and spicy mix, characterized by notes of citrus and a slightly sweet finish
• Captain Morgan Apple Smash: A delightful blend of Caribbean rum and green apple flavour, offering a crisp and fresh taste of green apple

In addition to these, Captain Morgan has introduced several fruit-flavoured rums over time, such as:

• Captain Morgan Pineapple Rum: Sweet and tropical, capturing the essence of ripe pineapple
• Captain Morgan Grapefruit Rum: Zesty and slightly tangy, with the refreshing flavour of grapefruit
• Captain Morgan Coconut Rum: Smooth and tropical, with a creamy coconut flavour

While these are some of the main drinks, the brand has occasionally released limited edition or region-specific flavours. The popularity of specific flavours can also vary based on regional preferences and trends.

What food pairings are good with Captain Morgan rums?

Rum, with its rich and varied flavour profile, pairs well with a wide range of foods. Depending on the specific Captain Morgan rum variant, here are some food pairings that complement the flavours:

Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum

Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum pairs well with grilled meats (like pork or chicken) with caramelized surfaces, barbecue dishes, spiced desserts (like cinnamon rolls, apple pie, or pumpkin pie), and dark chocolate.

Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum

Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum pairs well with smoked meats, strong cheeses (like blue cheese), rich desserts (like chocolate lava cake or tiramisu), and spicy barbecue dishes.

Captain Morgan White Rum

Captain Morgan White Rum pairs well with light seafood dishes (like ceviche or grilled shrimp), fresh salads, tropical fruits (like mango, pineapple, and papaya), and light pastries or sorbets.

Captain Morgan 100 Proof Spiced Rum

Captain Morgan 100 Proof Spiced Rum pairs well with hearty dishes (like beef stew or lamb roast), spicy foods (like curries or spicy barbecue), and rich, creamy desserts.

Captain Morgan LocoNut

Captain Morgan LocoNut pairs well with coconut-based desserts (like coconut cream pie or macaroons), tropical fruit salads, or light seafood dishes.

Captain Morgan Cannon Blast and Apple Smash

Captain Morgan Cannon Blast and Apple Smash pair well with spicy finger foods, fruit tarts, or spicy Asian dishes like spring rolls or Thai salads.

Captain Morgan Pineapple, Grapefruit, and Coconut Rums

Captain Morgan Pineapple, Grapefruit, and Coconut Rums pair well with grilled fish, ceviche, fruit salads, light summer dishes, and desserts that match the respective fruit flavour (like pineapple upside-down cake or grapefruit sorbet).

Captain Morgan Tiki

Captain Morgan Tiki pairs well with Hawaiian dishes (like poke bowls or luaus), tropical salads, and fruity desserts.

General Pairings

• Cheeses: Aged cheddar, brie, or gouda can be paired with various Captain Morgan rums for a delightful combination of flavours
• Desserts: Rum-soaked cakes, fruit tarts, and anything with caramel, vanilla, or tropical fruits
• Nuts: Roasted or caramelized nuts like pecans or almonds

These suggestions provide a starting point, but experimenting with different combinations will help you discover what you enjoy most. Whether you’re sipping rum on its own or enjoying it in a cocktail, there’s likely a delicious food pairing to enhance the experience!

What’s the best way to drink Captain Morgan rums?

The best way to drink Captain Morgan rums depends on personal preference, as the versatile nature of the rum allows for a wide variety of consumption methods. Here are some popular ways to enjoy Captain Morgan:

Neat or On the Rocks

Simply pour a measure of Captain Morgan, particularly the Original Spiced or Black Spiced Rum, into a glass to savor its flavours. If you prefer a slight dilution or chilling, you can add ice.

With Cola

Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum and cola is a classic combination. Pour 1.5 oz of rum into a glass filled with ice, top with cola, and garnish with a lime wedge.

As Part of Cocktails

Captain Morgan rums are ideal for a variety of cocktails. The Original Spiced Rum works well in tropical drinks like Mai Tais or Pina Coladas. The White Rum is great for Mojitos and Daiquiris. flavoured rums can be used to add unique twists to classic cocktails or to create new ones.

With Ginger Ale or Ginger Beer

The spiciness of ginger complements the flavours of Captain Morgan, especially the spiced varieties. Pour the rum over ice, top with ginger ale or ginger beer, and garnish with a lime or lemon wedge. This combination forms the basis of the “Morgan Mule.”

With Fruit Juices

Captain Morgan pairs well with a variety of fruit juices. Pineapple, orange, cranberry, and apple juices are popular choices. You can create simple mixed drinks or more complex cocktails.

As a Shot

Some varieties, like the Cannon Blast, are designed to be consumed as shots, either chilled or at room temperature.

Infused with Ingredients

Use ingredients like vanilla beans, fresh fruits, or even chili peppers to give an enhanced flavour. Let the rum sit with the ingredients for a few days to a few weeks, depending on the desired intensity.

Warm Drinks

During colder months, Captain Morgan can be incorporated into warm drinks like hot apple cider or hot chocolate for a comforting beverage with a kick.

Blended

For a refreshing treat, blend Captain Morgan with fruits, ice, and other ingredients to make a smoothie or frozen cocktail.

With Coconut Water

For a tropical and refreshing drink, mix Captain Morgan, especially the flavoured varieties, with coconut water.

What are the best cocktails you can make with Captain Morgan rums?

Captain Morgan rums, especially the spiced varieties, are versatile and work well in a variety of cocktails. Here are some popular and delicious cocktail recipes featuring Captain Morgan rums:

Captain and Cola

• 1.5 oz Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum
• Cola
• Lime wedge

Method: Fill a glass with ice. Pour in the rum, top with cola, and stir. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Captain’s Punch

• 1.5 oz Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum
• 2 oz pineapple juice
• 2 oz orange juice
• A splash of grenadine

Method: Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a glass filled with ice.

Morgan Mule

• 1.5 oz Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum
• 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
• 4 oz ginger beer

Method: Fill a mule mug or glass with ice. Add the rum and lime juice. Top with ginger beer and stir. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Captain’s Mojito

• 1.5 oz Captain Morgan White Rum
• 10 fresh mint leaves
• Half a lime, cut into 4 wedges
• 2 tbsp white sugar
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 5 oz club soda

Method: Muddle 2 lime wedges with sugar and mint leaves. Fill a glass with ice. Squeeze 2 more lime wedges into the glass and drop them in. Pour the rum and then top with club soda. Stir gently.

Pineapple Coconut Cooler

• 1.5 oz Captain Morgan LocoNut
• 0.5 oz Captain Morgan Pineapple Rum
• 1.5 oz coconut water
• 0.5 oz pineapple juice

Method: Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a pineapple wedge.

Captain’s Daiquiri

• 1.5 oz Captain Morgan White Rum
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup

Method: Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Captain Morgan Apple Crisp

• 1 oz Captain Morgan Apple Smash
• 0.5 oz lemon juice
• 4 oz ginger ale

Method: Combine rum and lemon juice in a glass filled with ice. Top with ginger ale and stir. Garnish with an apple slice.

Tiki Takedown

• 1.5 oz Captain Morgan Tiki
• 3 oz pineapple juice
• 1 oz orange juice

Method: Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a pineapple leaf and cherry.

These are just a few ideas to get you started, but the versatility of Captain Morgan rums means there are countless cocktails you can create. Adjust ingredients to taste and have fun experimenting with different flavour combinations!

What makes Captain Morgan rums different?
Captain Morgan rums have a number of distinctions which contribute to their unique taste and popularity:

• Spice Blends: Captain Morgan is best known for its spiced rum, which features a proprietary blend of spices. This distinct mixture gives the rum its signature taste, which is characterized by notes of vanilla, caramel, and various spices
• Aging Process: Captain Morgan rums are aged in charred oak barrels. This process imparts a richness and complexity to the rum, enhancing its flavour and smoothness
• Diverse Range: Over the years, Captain Morgan has expanded its product range to include not only its flagship spiced rum but also white rum, black spiced rum, and various flavoured rums, such as coconut, pineapple, and grapefruit. This wide range allows for a vast array of cocktail creations
• Iconic Branding: The brand is personified by the legendary figure, Captain Henry Morgan, a 17th-century Welsh privateer. The pirate imagery, combined with memorable marketing campaigns, has solidified Captain Morgan’s place in popular culture
• Marketing and Presentation: The brand’s marketing campaigns, such as the iconic “Captain’s Pose” (one leg up) and slogans like “Live Like the Captain,” have played a significant role in making Captain Morgan one of the most recognizable rum brands in the world
• Versatility: Captain Morgan rums are designed to be versatile, suitable for both sipping neat or on the rocks and as a base for a variety of cocktails. This adaptability has made it a favorite in bars and homes alike
• Affordability: Captain Morgan rums are priced in a way that makes them accessible to a broad audience. Their competitive pricing, combined with their distinct flavour profile, has contributed to their widespread popularity
• Global Reach: Being owned by Diageo, one of the world’s largest alcoholic beverage companies, has given Captain Morgan a vast distribution network, making it available in many countries and regions

While many rums have their unique attributes and selling points, Captain Morgan’s combination of flavour, branding, and market presence sets it apart in the rum industry.