There’s a certain magic in the air when I think about Piña Coladas, instantly transporting me to a sun-kissed beach with the gentle lapping of waves and the rustling of palm leaves.
The history of this iconic cocktail is as rich and varied as the rums that go into it. And when it comes to the best rums for a Piña Colada, a world of flavours is waiting to be explored.
As a girl who’s sipped more than her fair share of Piña Coladas, I’ve come to appreciate the nuances each rum can bring to this heavenly tropical cocktail.
Best Rums for Piña Coladas
The best rums for Piña Coladas are more than just ingredients; they play the main character in the story of this iconic cocktail.
1. Bacardi Carta Blanca Superior
Overview
- Distiller: Bacardi
- ABV: 37.5% (75 Proof)
- Country: Puerto Rico
- Colour: Clear
Review
A timeless classic, Bacardi Superior is light and crisp white rum, with whispers of almond and vanilla; I feel it’s the benchmark rum that all others are measured by. Its Cuban roots and rich heritage make it a versatile choice.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
2. Mount Gay Eclipse Rum
Overview
- Distiller: Mount Gay
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Barbados
- Colour: Golden
Review
From Barbados and established in 1703, Mount Gay Eclipse is a rum that will bring ripe banana, sweet almond, and vanilla notes, adding depth and aromatic richness to your Piña Colada.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
3. Havana Club 3-Year-Old
Overview
- Distiller: Havana Club
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Cuba
- Colour: Soft Hay
Review
This Cuban gem, aged gracefully for three years, is the old flame you can’t forget. Its oak and molasses, combined with a touch of tropical fruit flavours, make it a luxurious choice for any summertime cocktail lover.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
4. Appleton Estate Signature Blend
Overview
- Distiller: Appleton Estate
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Jamaica
- Colour: Amber
Review
Straight from Jamaica’s heart, Appleton Estate is the adventurous choice if you are up for it. Its warm, honeyed flavour, rich with fruity notes and a hint of spice, takes your Piña Colada on a whirlwind journey to sun-soaked Caribbean beaches.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
5. Malibu Coconut Rum
Overview
- Distiller: Malibu
- ABV: 21% (42 Proof)
- Country: Caribbean
- Colour: Clear
Review
Malibu is a flirty, fun-loving rum. While some might see it as a cliché, its unmistakable coconut flavour and a hint of molasses add a playful twist. I love its light texture and sweet aroma, making it a delightful addition to any tropical concoction.
Also Read: 12 Best Things to Mix with Malibu (Quick Guide)
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
6. Canerock Rum
Overview
- Distiller: Canerock
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Jamaica
- Colour: Rich Amber
Review
A treasure from Jamaica, Canerock is the wise sage of rums. A blend of traditional Jamaican rums to ensure a sweet and fruity rum with vanilla notes and delicate oak smoothness. Its rich amber colour and velvety texture make it a luxurious choice.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
7. Plantation Pineapple Stiggins’ Fancy
Overview
- Distiller: Plantation
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Caribbean
- Colour: Amber
Review
Inspired by Victorian tales, this rum is infused with Victorian pineapple essence. Its sweet and tangy profile, combined with a hint of spice, ensures your Piña Colada is tasty and memorable.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
8. Don Q Cristal Rum
Overview
- Distiller: Don Q
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Puerto Rico
- Colour: Clear
Review
This is a favourite of mine from Puerto Rico; Don Q Cristal is a reliable choice that is clean and refined, with grassy notes and a hint of citrus. Its transparent clarity and smooth finish make it versatile perfect for classic and modern cocktails.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
Ingrid’s Top Pick
Plantation Pineapple Stiggins’ Fancy
It’s the lush pineapple that does it for me, so Plantation Pineapple Stiggins’ Fancy is my top pick rum for a delicious Piña Colada.
History Of The Piña Colada
You know that dreamy blend of pineapple, coconut, and rum we all love in our Piña Colada? Well, let me take you back to the 1950s in Puerto Rico, where it all began.
There’s a bit of a debate about where exactly in San Juan it was first whipped up. Some say it was Ramón “Monchito” Marrero, a bartender at the Caribe Hilton Hotel, who wanted to pour the very soul of Puerto Rico into a glass.
Also read: Best Doorly’s Rums Unveiled: 5 Parrot-Tastic Picks
Others believe it might’ve been Ricardo Garcia, another bartender from the same hotel, or even Ramón Portas Mingot.
Whoever it was, we owe them big time! By 1978, the Piña Colada was so loved that Puerto Rico named it their national drink.
How To Make The Best Piña Colada
As per my Piña Colada recipe, blend 2 oz white rum, 1 oz coconut cream, and 3 oz fresh pineapple juice with a cup of ice. Pour into a chilled glass garnish with a pineapple slice and cherry. Sip and be transported to a tropical paradise!
Also read: 8 Best Havana Club Rums: Exploring Cuba’s Finest
Conclusion
In the world of classic cocktails, the Piña Colada stands out as a timeless tale of tropical romance. And the best rums for Piña Coladas are the characters that bring this tropical story to life.
Each rum I’ve carefully selected brings its own unique flavour profile, complexity and emotion to the narrative.
So, as you pour or order that next Piña Colada, remember that you’re not just mixing a drink; you’re crafting a story. And with the right rum, it’s bound to be a bestseller.
Further Reading
Below are some additional articles from The Drinks Geek blog. We write articles on several fascinating areas of drinks, including different brands, drink types, cocktail recipes and more.
