20 Best Rum Brands In India with Price List: September, 2024

It's not easy to predict Best Rum Brands, but in India, it's safe to say that at least 2 out of 5 people you drink with, would order a peg of Old Monk. Such is the popularity of the celebratory sweet drink. Whether it's dark, white or spiced, there probably exists a type you'd happily sip on given a chance. 

 

Having said that, this preference of alcohol seems to be largely centred around a few top rum brands, including the iconic names like Old Monk. But don't you think this delightfully yummy spirit, deserves to be explored a tad more deeply? Okay, even if you don't agree, let us at least provide you with insights into some of the best rum options when you're looking to purchase a bottle in 2024.

List of Best Rum Brands in India from most expensive to most affordable

Looking for the best rum in India can feel overwhelming. But don't worry! We've put together a list of the top 20 rum brands you can find in 2024, along with how much they cost. Whether you're a rum expert or just starting out, we've got options for everyone. From fancy, pricey rums to more affordable ones, there's something here for every taste and budget. And don't forget to check out the most expensive rum on the list! So, let's dive into the world of rum together and find your new favorite drink!

 

1. Old Monk

 

Price INR 466 for 750 ml. 

Alcohol Content 42.8% 

Image Courtesy: Masala Wala

 

• Now, this iconic rum brand doesn't exactly need an introduction, does it? Extremely budget-friendly yet effective, Old Monk has been the most adored dark rum company in India since 1954.
• Known for its soft taste palate, comprising vanilla, cola, spice, roasted coffee beans, and caramel flavours, Old Monk is cheap, accessible it is the best rum brand under 500, and absolutely yummy by itself, with some water, or a soft drink mixer, all in equal measure. 
• Old Monk got its name from a legendary tale of a British monk who, sneaking around the distillery, became a rum specialist, offering valuable advice to Mohan Meakin Ltd. Rum makers, leading to the naming of their first bottled rum in his honor.

 

Best 5 Variants of Old Monk Rum

1. Old Monk 7-Year Rum
2. Old Monk Very Old Vatted XXX Rum
3. Old Monk Reserve 12-Year Rum
4. Old Monk XXX Gold Rum
5. Old Monk Fancy XXX Rum

 

 

2. Clement 

 

Price INR 4,857 for 700 ml. 

Alcohol Content 40% Onwards

Image Courtesy: DFNI

 

• Now mind you, this one is a rhum, and not a rum, and yes, there's a stark difference between the two. The latter mostly comprises of industrial rum that's distilled from molasses, while Rhum Agricole is the closest you will get to pure, natural rum.
• Clement Rhum constitutes of brilliant alchemy, and the alcohol is crafted and matured carefully. VSOP Rhum by Clement is brimming with a subtle, mellow character and comes in a startling mahogany hue.
• Clement is indisputably one of those top shelf rum brands every enthusiast needs to try at least once. 
• Habitation Clément, renowned as the birthplace of Rhum Agricole, occupies a 43-hectare plantation featuring seven sugar cane fields. Established in 1887 by Homère Clément, the distillery's founder, he is affectionately recognized as the 'Godfather' of Rhum Agricole.

 

Best 5 Variants of Clement Rhum 

1. Clement Rhum Blanc 
2. Clement Rhum Vieux XO. 70cl 
3. Clement Canne Bleue Vieux 2020. 70cl 
4. Clement Canne Bleue 2020. 70cl 
5. Clement Rhum 2002 Vintage. 70cl 

 

Also Read, Best Rum Brands Under 1000

 

 

3. El Dorado 

 

Price INR 4,500 (approx.) for 750 ml. 

Alcohol Content 40% 

Image Courtesy: Wikipedia

 

• The rums by El Dorado are actually remarkable blends of selected vintage rums.
• The aged rums are created on the banks of the Demerara River in Guyana, and have been awarded by numerous titles, all of which indicate one thing, El Dorado is one of the best rum brands in India, along with the globe.
• Aged in former Bourbon casks, El Dorado rums are uniquely complex and distinctly flavourful. 
• Demerara Distillers in Guyana is the sole surviving distillery, dating back to 1670, and produces El Dorado 12-year rum. The name "El Dorado" pays homage to the mythical city of gold, believed to be situated in Guyana's Rupununi region.

 

Best 5 Variants of El dorado

1. El Dorado 3 Years Aged Rum
2. El Dorado 5 Years Aged Rum
3. El Dorado 8 Years Aged Rum
4. El Dorado 12 Years Aged Rum
5. El Dorado 15 Years Aged Rum 

 

 

4. Angostura

 

Price INR 3,200 (Approx.) for 700 ml. 

Alcohol Content 40% Onwards 

Image Courtesy: Liquor Barons

 

• One of the leading rum brands straight from the Caribbean, Angostura gained rapid worldwide fame owing to its high-quality bitters.
• Angostura sells both white and dark rum variants, although it's recognised primarily for its superior aged dark rums, each of which is a blend of cherry-picked mature rums.
• With a rich, warm flavour of vanilla and an incredibly smooth finish, Angostura's creamy, gentle rums have snagged an assured place on every list of the best rum brands in India. 
• Angostura 1824, a distinguished rum, is named in honor of the Company's founding date (1824) by Dr. Johann G.B. Siegert, emphasizing the exceptional quality of the liquid.

 

Best 5 Variants of Angostura Rum

1. Angostura 1824 Rum
2. Angostura Rum 7 Years
3. Angostura Symphony
4. Angostura Tamboo
5. Angostura Reserva

 

Also Read, Best Rum Brand under 2000

 

 

5. Mount Gay 

 

Price INR 3,000 for 700 ml.

Alcohol Content 40%

Image Courtesy: Foodism

 

• Made from molasses and water filtered by natural coral, Mount Gay rums are recognised by every rum enthusiast across the world.
• The most famous variant arguably is Mount Gay Barbados Eclipse, known for its fruity and well-rounded palate, boasting of enticing notes of banana, vanilla and toasty oak.
• A sip of this excellent rum carries subtle hints of spices, that make for a mouthful of delicate and delightful dark spirit. 
• Mount Gay Rum is named after Sir John Gay Alleyne, a close friend of John Sober. Sober bought the Mount Gilboa Plantation/Distilleries from William Sandiford in 1747, and Sir John Gay Alleyne's connection to the brand is honored in its name.

 

Best 5 Variants of Mount Gay Rum

1. Mount Gay Eclipse
2. Mount Gay Black Barrel
3. Mount Gay 1703
4. Mount Gay XO Triple Cask Blend
5. Mount Gay Extra Old

 

 

6. Malibu

 

Price INR 2,980 for 750 ml. 

Alcohol By Volume 21% 

Image Courtesy: Wine Liquor Store 

 

• One of the best-selling rum brands in India and the world at large, Malibu's Coconut flavoured liqueur is absolutely mouthwatering.
• It's like a vacation in a bottle, one that's full of tropical fresh coconut flavours with notes of vanilla custard. More than anything, the stuff goes down remarkably easily, considering its sweet fruity taste and charming coconut aroma.
• One of the best rum brands we've ever tried, Malibu rum can be downed just by itself, or by throwing in some pineapple juice or flavour liquor. 
• The potential was evident - it embodied the essence of summer in a bottle and deserved a global presence. They selected the name Malibu for its positive vibe and association with warmth.

 

Best 5 Variants of Malibu Rum

1. Malibu Cola
2. Malibu Original
3. Malibu Pineapple
4. Malibu Pina Colada
5. Malibu Strawberry

 

 

7. Appleton Estate 

 

Price INR 1,800 (Approx.) for 750 ml. 

Alcohol Content 43% 

Image Courtesy: Oak &  Barrel

 

• The Signature Blend by Appleton Estate is touted to be amongst the best rums in India, and one sip of it's fruity, tasty flavours later, it becomes starkly clear why.
• Imagine some alcoholic salted caramel, and you've got a pretty good idea of how Appleton Estate's Signature Blend rum tastes.
• It's a pot-distilled Jamaican rum, with a super smooth and bold profile of flavours, and the palate has lovely notes of oak, nutmeg and exotic spices. 

 

Best 5 Variants of Appleton Estate Rum

1. Appleton 12 Year Old
2. Appleton Estate Reserve Blend
3. Appleton Estate Signature Rum
4. Appleton Estate Rum 21 Year
5. Appleton Estate Signature Blend

 

 

8. Goslings 

 

Price INR 1,600 (Approx.) for 750 ml. 

Alcohol Content 40% to 75.5% 

Image Courtesy: Matador Network

 

• Of all the sublime variants produced by Goslings, it's Black Seal rum is perhaps the most famous, considering there's a popular cocktail (Dark "n" Stormy) dedicated to it!
• It's a full-flavoured dark rum, aged in re-charred American oak barrels, and carries a fine balance of thick sweet spices and stewed fruits.
• It comes with a delightfully warm and spicy finish, and the taste lingers long after you've swallowed your gulp of this fabulous rum. 

 

Best 5 variants of Goslings Rum

1. Goslings Rum Classic Bundle 
2. Goslings Rum Ultimate Bundle
3. Gosling's Flora Duffy Gold Rum 
4. Goslings Auld Rum
5. Goslings Family Reserve Old Rum Rye

 

 

9. Bacardi 

 

Price INR 800 - INR 1,500 for 750 ml.

Alcohol By Volume 35% Onwards 

Image Courtesy: Mikkel Jul Hvilshoj

 

• Bacardi is indisputably one of the best rum brands in India, one that offers an assortment of exciting flavours to its eager customers.
• In addition to the terrific fruity flavours such as Apple, Strawberry, Limon, Grapefruit, Orange and Raspberry, Bacardi also has a white, black and gold rum up for grabs.
• Their unique blends come with remarkable taste and fragrant aromas, and while the gold variant is certainly one of our favourites, we'd suggest you try all before settling on yours! 

 

Best 5 variants of Bacardi Rum

1. Bacardi Gold Rum
2. Bacardi Superior
3. Bacardi Añejo
4. Bacardi Coconut
5. Bacardi Limon

 

 

10. Captain Morgan 

 

Price INR 1,472 for 750 ml. 

Alcohol Content 35% 

Image Courtesy: Reader's Digest

 

• Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum is a true classic in the category of the best rum brands in India.
• One of the most top rated rums for mixing in splendid cocktails, this one boasts of rich flavours of vanilla, brown sugar and aromatic spices, topped off with a hint of oak and a beautifully balanced, smooth finish.
• It's an affordable rum brand, that also tastes great, and blends wonderfully well into fancy drinks. 

 

Best 4 Variants of Captain Morgan

1. Captain Morgan Original Spiced Gold Rum
2. Captain Morgan Dark Rum
3. Captain Morgan White Rum
4. Captain Morgan Original Spiced Gold and Cola premix

 

 

11. Havana Club

 

Price INR 1,100 for 750 ml. 

Alcohol Content 40%

Image Courtesy: Ticket Arena

 

• The most popular Havana Club rum is the Anejo 3-year-old, that's aged for three years in bourbon casks, and comes with a clean round palate comprising fresh notes of citrus, oak, vanilla, some spice and lemon.
• One of the best budget-friendly rum brands in India, this one doesn't compromise on the taste or quality one bit.
• It's one of the most distinguished light Cuban rums, perfect for pouring into any rum cocktail, throwing in with some mixer, or just a few blocks of ice, all in equal measure. 

 

Best 5 Variants of Havana Club Rum

1. Havana Club Añejo Especial
2. Havana Club 3 Year
3. Havana Club Selección de Maestros
4. Havana Club 15 Year
5. Havana Club Tributo 2019

 

 

 

12. Hercules

 

Price INR 672 for 750 ml. 

Alcohol Content 42.8%

Image Courtesy: Hercules Deluxe 

 

• Easy on the wallet as well as your tongue, Hercules is one of the best selling rum brands in India under 1000, especially in the Defence segment of the country.
• The brand produces both white and dark variants, but it's the Deluxe 3X dark rum that's consumed most commonly.
• It's a relatively smooth dark rum with a rich, complex flavour profile, making this one of the best rated budget-friendly rums available in the market. 

 

Best 5 Variants of Hercules Rum

1. Hercules Delux 3 X Rum 
2. Hercules Delux 3 X Rum 
3. Hercules Delux 3 X Rum 
4. Hercules Bianco Superior White Rum 
5. Hercules Bianco Superior White Rum

 

 

13. Old Port

 

Price INR 650 (Approx.) for 750 ml. 

Alcohol Content 40% Onwards 

Image Courtesy: magicpin

 

• One of the best sweet rum brands in India that also falls within the confines of a reasonable budget, Amrut's Old Port Deluxe Rum is cherished for its mouthwatering balance of sweet, spicy, nutty and ripe fruit flavours.
• The rum comes in a silky copper shade, and your nose is greeted by the aroma of vanilla, pistachio and decadent spices.
• A sip of this rum leads to a flood of honey-sweet and butterscotch flavours, with refreshing notes of orange zest. 

 

 

14. Ron Zacapa 

 

Price INR 7,250 for 750 ml. 

Alcohol Content 40% Onwards

 

Image Courtesy: The London Economic

 

• One of the best rum brands in India, the spirits by Ron Zacapa are produced in Guatemala and carry a distinct flavour of molasses and vanilla.
• There are 4 best-selling variants of Ron Zacapa, namely, Zacapa 23, Zacapa XO, Zacapa Edicion Negra and Zacapa Royal, the first being the most sought-after type.
• Ron Zacapa 23 is immensely smooth, and often features under the most pleasurable dark rums to sip neat on a night of indulgence. 

 

 

 

 

15. McDowell's No. 1 Rum

 

Price INR 343 for 750 ml. 

Alcohol Content 42.8% 

Image Courtesy: Pinterest

 

• Not just one of the top selling rum brands in India, but McDowell's Celebration rum has been amongst the best selling rum brands in the world for a while now.
• It has a distinct taste of sharp vanilla and caramelised sugar, with subtle flavours of tea leaves, citrus zest and dry tobacco rounding off the palate.
• Throw it into a glass with some soft drink mixer, or ginger beer if you're in the mood for experimentation. 

 

 

16. Contessa Rum

 

Price INR 300 (Approx.) for 750 ml. 

Alcohol Content 42.8% 

Image Courtesy: The Whisky Exchange

 

• This one offers a decently smooth and bold taste, which at this price makes this rum a total steal.
• The flavours are warm and mellow, and Contessa rum boasts of a pronounced woody taste.
• This cheap rum brand in India, has won several awards for its quality, including a Bronze at the International Wine & Spirit
• Competition 2007 held in the UK.

Best 5 Variants of Contessa Rum

1. Contessa White Rum
2. Contessa Gold Rum
3. Contessa Cola Rum
4. Contessa Coffee Rum
5. Contessa 12 Year Old Rum

 

 

17. Jolly Roger Rum

Jolly Roger Rum by Allied Blenders and Distillers stands out as the quintessential sailor's rum, boasting a robust and smooth Jamaican flavor that's perfect for both sipping and the creation of imaginative pirate-themed cocktails.

 

Image Courtesy: Price with India

 

Price: Rs. 300

Alcohol Content: 42.8%

 

• Marketed as the quintessential sailor’s rum.
• Strong, rich, and smooth Jamaican rum suitable for sipping and crafting pirate-themed cocktails.
• Notable cocktails include Clap of Thunder, Shiver me Timbers, Pirate’s Blood, The Plague, and Pirate’s Cloud.

 

Best 5 Variants of Jolly Roger Rum

 

• Jolly Roger Gold
• Jolly Roger Silver
• Jolly Roger Spiced
• Jolly Roger Special Dark
• Jolly Roger Coconut

18. Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum

The Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum pays homage to Norman Collins, popularly known as Sailor Jerry, who served as a prominent tattoo artist during World War II. His tattoos, characterized by precision and boldness, were not just ink on skin but symbols of true manhood.

 

 

Price: 3600(approx)

Alcohol Contains: 46%

 

• The creation of Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum is a deliberate nod to the maritime tradition of rum drinking during World War II. The production process mirrors the authentic methods employed during that era, offering consumers a genuine taste of the past. 
• Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum is a carefully crafted Caribbean blend, known for its rich and smooth quality. The infusion of cinnamon and vanilla notes in the flavor profile is a direct homage to Sailor Jerry's artistry. 
• With a robust 46% alcohol content, Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum is not only a tribute to its namesake but also a testament to the boldness and strength associated with the maritime lifestyle.  

19. Ron Matusalem

Ron Matusalem stands as a testament to the rich history of the Caribbean, blending age-old traditions with innovative processes to create a rum that embodies both heritage and excellence.

 

Image Courtesy: The Party Source

 

Price:7000(approx)

 

Alcohol Contains: 40%

 

• Ron Matusalem, born around 150 years ago, stands as an icon of the Caribbean's golden era. This historical background contributes to the brand's legacy and sets it apart as a symbol of timeless craftsmanship.
• The rum undergoes aging in carefully selected and charred barrels, a process crucial to achieving its unique taste. This emphasis on detail ensures a distinctive and high-quality product.
• The dynamic aging process employed by Matusalem involves placing barrels at varying heights off the ground. This unique approach infuses the rum with aromatic and floral hints. 

 

20. Zacapa Rums

Zacapa Rums encapsulate the artistry of Guatemalan craftsmanship, delivering a premium and globally recognized selection that appeals to both connoisseurs and those seeking an exceptional rum experience.

 

Image Courtesy: Delhi Duty Free

 

Price: 7000(approx)

 

Alcohol Contains: 40%

 

• Zacapa Rums, hailing from Guatemala, have gained international acclaim for their series of premium, long-aged, smooth, and rich rums. The brand has secured numerous awards, establishing itself as a symbol of excellence in the world of spirits.
• The distinguishing feature of Zacapa Rums is their aging process in the highlands of Quetzaltenango, positioned at an elevation of 2300m above sea level. 
•  Zacapa Rums are crafted through a meticulous blend of aged spirits ranging from 6 to 25 years. This diverse aging process contributes to the complexity of flavors, offering enthusiasts a nuanced and sophisticated palate with each sip.

 

List of Most Expensive Rum in India

Get ready to explore the fanciest rums out there! Ever wondered what the most expensive rums in India are like? Well, let's take a peek. From the ultra-luxurious Dictador M-City Golden Cities series, starting at a jaw-dropping $1.5 million, to the historic Wray & Nephew 1940s, priced at $54,000, each bottle is a masterpiece of taste and exclusivity.

 

1. Dictador M-City Golden Cities series

Starting at a staggering $1.5 million, each bottle of this series is customized to the buyer's preferences. With the opportunity to create a unique blend from 110 private casks and bottle it in a handmade, 24-carat gold one-liter bottle, these rums are not only rare but also highly exclusive, available only by invitation. It is most expensive rum in the world. 

 

Image Courtesy: TheMilliaredaire

 

2. Wray & Nephew 1940s 

Priced at $54,000, this historic rum dates back to the 1940s, possibly containing a 25-year-old rum distilled around 1915. With only four confirmed bottles in existence, its scarcity contributes to its high value.

 

Image Courtesy: BBC

 

3. Zacapa Rums

Priced at INR 7,000 for 750 ml, this rum from Guatemala is known for its distinct flavor of molasses and vanilla. It is aged for an extended period and is immensely smooth, making it a sought-after choice among rum enthusiasts.

 

 

4. Clement Rhum Vieux 

Priced at INR 4,857 for 700 ml, this rhum is crafted with meticulous care and offers a subtle, mellow character with a startling mahogany hue.

 

 

5. Angostura 1824 Rum

Initially auctioned for INR 3,200 for 700 ml this rum is a blend of cherry-picked mature rums, offering a rich, warm flavor of vanilla and a smooth finish. Its current market value may exceed INR 5000.

 

Image Courtesy: Haskellas

 

 

---

Time flies when you're having rum! 

---

FAQs:

Q. Which rum is best in India?

A. Contessa is the best rum in India.

 

Q. Which rum is most popular in India?

A. Old Monk is the most popular rum in India.

 

Q. Which is the highest selling rum in India?

A. Celebration Rum is the largest selling rum of India and one of the most popular brand under umbrella of United Spirits Limited .

 

Q. Which is better Rum or Whisky?

A. When it comes to popularity, whisky is by far the more popular drink since it does phenomenally better in sales figures as compared to rum, both in terms of revenue and volume.

---