Rum (sometimes spelt Rhum) is made from sugarcane juice or molasses. All rums are distilled clear, with heavy or dark rums are made in traditional pot stills with a slow fermentation of up to 12 days. Lighter rums ferment only 24 hours and are produced with modern continuous stills.

Light rums (light in color and flavour) can replace gin in any drink recipe.

Brown rum, which is different than dark rum, is aged six years in oak barrels. As far as comparison goes, it's similar to brandy, bourbon, or whiskey. A fine brown rum can be enjoyed like a cognac.