Coconut Rum

[bluewave6]

Each year I offer my coworkers and friends a choice of flavored spirits for Christmas. This year I offered a Coconut Rum and Blueberry Vodka. To make the coconut rum I purchased some ripe coconuts, Appelton Extra and fresh spices and demera sugar. (raw sugar) I mixed the allspice, nutmeg and clove in the rum with a small amount of sugar. I drilled a 3/4" hole in the coconut and drained the water, added the rum and corked it and sealed with sealing wax. I opened up one to try it before I gave it out for my gifts. I was quite happy with the results. It is excellent on the rocks with a twist of lime. It has quite a different coconut flavor than the commercially available rums.

I am in the process now of making a pomegranite rum. Will let you know how it turns out.

[angelsword]

That sounds like a lot of fun. You might advise your friends to drink it all within a reasonably short amount of time. I've had raw coconut go bad... very bad.

[primate77]

I'm looking for a better coconut rum. Brinley's is not available in Illinois, so that's out, and the states it does seem to be available in are not in my normal traveling territory. I'd rather not buy on line as the shipping eats up an value in savings if there are any to be found.

I actually like the Marti CoCo Suave, but it's really been hard to find that last year or so, I find the Marti Mojito rum on the shelves, but not the coconut rum.

I drink the Cruzan Coconut right now for lack of really trying much of anything else. Malibu is ok, but there is more coconut flavor in the Cruzan, but the tradeoff seems to be the Cruzan tastes a bit "heavy" and kind of manufactured and really sweet.

I noticed elsewhere here the discussion between Cruzan Vanilla and Whaler's Vanille, and the observation was made that Whaler's was a wee bit harsher, but a better more "real" vanilla flavor.

I picked up a bottle of the Whaler's Vanille, and found that assessment to be dead on, and I do enjoy the Whaler's more than the Cruzan.

I'm tempted to pick up the Whaler's "Killer Coconut" in hopes that it will be a similar experience. Anyone had both the Whaler's and the Cruzan and care to comment? Or have another recommendation for a tasty coconut rum?

[RumBarPhilly]

Grab a bottle of the Bacardi Coco, itll be worth your while. It is stronger, more of a rum than a rum liqueur. Also, the coconut tastes real, not artificial like Malibu or Parrot Bay. I have the cruzan, though ive never given her a taste. Never tried the whalers, though id bet id like it, as their dark is deadly good.

[primate77]

Grab a bottle of the Bacardi Coco, itll be worth your while. It is stronger, more of a rum than a rum liqueur. Also, the coconut tastes real, not artificial like Malibu or Parrot Bay. I have the cruzan, though ive never given her a taste. Never tried the whalers, though id bet id like it, as their dark is deadly good.

I did see your comment about the whaler's dark in another thread! That's on my list to try as well. I like the Vanille, you say the dark is good - that's two positives for the Whaler's brand there.

Ya know, I honestly can say I'd never even considered the Bacardi CoCo. It's definitely available (anywhere I'd shop), I just would never have thought to pick it up as I generally have not liked Bacardi products.

Do me a favor if you would in the next week or two... you say you have the Cruzan Coconut on the shelf, but haven not tried it yet. I'm not in a super hurry to run out and get a coconut rum at the moment (it's down the list after the La Favorite Blanc, One Barrel and Westerhall that I want to try). And that's just rums! I need to replace my Hanger One Mandarin Orange vodka, my bottle of Tito's is almost gone, and I need some El Tesoro Silver Tequila!!! Give the Cruzan a try, and let me know if you'd still lean towards the Bacardi CoCo after that.

[RumBarPhilly]

I'll do ya one better. On Wednesday I'll do a tasting of everything coconut that I have. That would be:

Bacardi Coco
Malibu Coconut
Cruzan Coconut
Mi Abuela Coquito

[Paulipbartender]

I have genuinely never tasted any of the Bacardi flavours sitting on our bar - you've just made me realise.

I'll start in on the Bacardi O, Razz, Coco, Apple, Limon, Ciclon and Vanilla when I can be bothered........ick!

[Tiare]

And if you can be bothered..
Maybe you could re-visit the Silver Seal 32 and 21 and tell the difference between these two?
There is a big price difference.

[RumBarPhilly]

I have genuinely never tasted any of the Bacardi flavours sitting on our bar - you've just made me realise.

I'll start in on the Bacardi O, Razz, Coco, Apple, Limon, Ciclon and Vanilla when I can be bothered........ick!

The only flavors I like are the Peach and Coco. I really liked the vanilla, but its no more.

(When I say "I really like them" I am referring to their use in certain cocktails like mojitos)

Went to this niteclub a few weeks back that had all their liquors in a line from one end to the other. We decided to pick a number at random and do a shot of whatever we picked. It came up Bacardi Apple. After the shot, my bartender ran off to the bathroom.... Shots of Stroh 80 infused with chili peppers; no problem. Shot of Bacardi Cr-Apple; problem!

[The Rum Ambassador]

I'm looking for a better coconut rum.

Or have another recommendation for a tasty coconut rum?

It's a shame that you can't get Koko Kanu coconut rum from the appleton stables. It's the best I've tasted and the only one I'll used for cocktails.
http://www.talkingretail.com/products/8761/Koko-Kanu-unveils-new-look.ehtml

If you follow the link you'll see the new label , released last month. The old label is a little more colourful
http://www.comparestoreprices.co.uk/rum/unbranded-koko-kanu-rum-70cl-bottle.asp

[Tiare]

I think the new label with the humming bird, and the Lignum Vitae looks best!

[Paulipbartender]

The Bacardi talk made me forget this was a thread about Coconut rums.

I have to agree with Ian - far and away the best is Koko Kanu, although I'll admit I'm not a big fan of coconut flavours. Even when I smell real coconuts it just reminds me of suntan lotion.

[Tiare]

Even when I smell real coconuts it just reminds me of suntan lotion.

And what`s wrong with suntan lotion...? (not ANY suntan lotion dough..)..it reminds me about white sand beaches..;)

[RobertBurr]

The Jane Barbancourt coconut rum was easily the best I've ever tasted, but have not seen it in the islands in the past few years. It's a green label, clear rum, not expensive. I think I paid $5 in the Bahamas last time.

[RumBarPhilly]

Okay, tonight I tasted 4 Coconut Rums or Rum Liqueurs.

Rum 1: Mi Abuela Coquito
Nose: Nutmeg and other bark spices
Palate: Subtle coconuts and sweet eggs
Finish: Long and smooth

Rum 2: Bacardi Coco
Nose: Suntan Lotion
Palate: Sweet front end to a mellow back end
Finish: Medium, but harsh

Rum 3: Cruzan Coconut
Nose: Sweet Butter Cream
Palate: Rich taste with flavors of real coconuts
Finish: Flat

Rum 4: Malibu Coconut
Nose: Small nose
Palate: Overly sweet with some artificial coconut notes
Finish: None

Results:
The 2 best were Mi ABuela and Cruzan. Mi Abuela could only be drunk in small quanities, as the richness of it could make you sick after awhile, however I recommend drinking this on the rocks. The Cruzan appeared to be the best mixing rum. Do to its lack of a finish, I wouldnt recommend sipping on this, unless you wanted to completely forget what you were drinking in between sips. The Bacardi Coco could be sipped, however it would work much better in big cocktails like Mojitos or Pina Coladas. The Malibu... just throw it out.

[primate77]

Thanks Adam!

I wish you had the Whaler's Killer Coconut in the lineup to comment on... but I guess I'll have to go out and get that one myself.

Now... where on the list was that one in my list of purchases to make?

[Lew Barrett]

My experiment with coconut rum, and for that matter, flavored rums, was recently kicked off with a Brinely Coconut purchase. I have to report that for me, this is not a sipping rum. The intense sugary sweetness and exceptionally forward nature of the coconut flavor makes it too one dimensional for my tastes.
I tried it in coffee, and that was better. I can see it as useful for cocktails, but it is otherwise relegated to redundancy in my collection.

[primate77]

Hi Lew,
I'm not sure how many coconut rums I'd consider sippers (not that I've encountered a large handful of them) but the ones I've had all seem too sweet to be a sipper, but make for nice mixers.

What did you think of the Brinley's overall? I keep hearing about rave reviews about their lineup of flavored rums. I'm interested in trying their rum, but I'd have to do mail order to get it, since it is not offered in Illinois, and I can't get to the states often where it is available.

Worth the investment? CoCo Suave by Marti seems all but gone (haven't seen it on a shelf in over a year), the Cruzan would be the top of my current list I suppose, but I hear Brinleys is a goodie.

[bluewave6]

Not sure I would classify any of the Brinley flavored rums as sippers or any flavored rums for that matter. I find flavored rums are too thick and sugary. Of them all the Brinley is my favorite flavored rum at this time for mixing. It is bottled at 35% so it has more of a rum flavor than the Cruzan rums which I beleive are around 23%. I prefer to make my own flavored rums and add little to no sugar when creating the infusion to make more of a sippable flavored rum. I am currently working on a coffee infused rum with no added sugar that is as my wife described after tasting the sample as "smokin".

[Lew Barrett]

I have to agree with both of you. It was nice in the coffee, though, just a dram both sweetened and "cocofied" the coffee nicely. I was hoping to find their dark coffee rum when I went looking, but settled on the coconut, as that's what was there. I have no way to compare it to other flavored rums, as it's the only one I have, apart from Demerara Rum Cream, which I dote on, and doesn't really fit in the same category.
I have a new mission; to make Pina Coladas, Mai Tais, all the usual tropical stuff. I expect it will do good work in that. Lord help me; I'm no mixologist.

[primate77]

It is bottled at 35% so it has more of a rum flavor than the Cruzan rums which I beleive are around 23%.

Bluewave - I just checked the pantry where I have a bottle of Cruzan Coconut and Cruzan Vanilla rum sitting there. They are both at 27.5% alcohol.

And I agree with you - at 35% and less sugar you'd most likely get a better "rum" flavor, and less sugary/syrupy feel and taste.

I don't keep ice cream in the house anymore, but I'm really kind of itching to try pouring some of the coconut rum over a scoop of vanilla!

[MorganNY]

I've been loyal to Marti Coco since a free tasting at my local liquor store. It's the first "full strength" spirit I ever enjoyed straight from the bottle.
First few cases: $9.99/750ml $11.91 per bottle delivered
next case: $12.99 $14.21/delivered
Unless I find it cheaper, I'm looking at $17.08/del.

There are places online asking $19/bottle. For something introduced at $12.99. :mad:
Note: Marti is made in MN and distributed by a NY company. So I don't know why they're acting like it's a scarce commodity.

I didn't find the bacardi coco that enjoyable. Was ok to mix, blech neat.
Not looking for anything below 35%

Glad to be on the board. Salutations to all kindred rummies.

[primate77]

I was a big fan of Marti CoCo. Seems like it has been a year or more since I've seen any of it on the shelf, and when it was there, it was $9.99 a bottle.

I really enjoyed it. The only Marti label product I can seem to find anymore with consistency is the Marti Mojito.

[forrest]

This year I offered a Coconut Rum and Blueberry Vodka. To make the coconut rum I purchased some ripe coconuts, Appelton Extra and fresh spices and demera sugar. (raw sugar) I mixed the allspice, nutmeg and clove in the rum with a small amount of sugar.

That sounds delectable!!


and a pre-made coconut rum that is 80 proof, and better than average is Tortuga.

[MorganNY]

a pre-made coconut rum that is 80 proof, and better than average is Tortuga.

How does tortuga compare with marti?

I just ordered a bottle each of the Tortuga coco and Banana.
I'll let you guys know what I think.

Thanks for the recommendation

[primate77]

I just ordered a bottle each of the Tortuga coco and Banana



ooooohhhhhh... beware the banana. The 80 proof banana. STRONG and the flavor comes through EVERYTHING!!!! Not in a really good way, either.

[MorganNY]

Well bro, if only I had seen your msg earlier.. but, I'm sure it'll be fine.
If I can't drink it neat, I'll throw it into the blender with ice and vanilla ice cream. Maybe throw in a nice ripe banana for a little added taste and texture.

Stay drunk people, kids suck.

[MorganNY]

I LOVE the Tortuga banana! Like it straight from the bottle.. also tried it with pineapple juice over crushed ice.. awesome! The coco isn't bad either.
Looking forward to further mixing experimentation!

[forrest]

I LOVE the Tortuga banana! Like it straight from the bottle.. also tried it with pineapple juice over crushed ice.. awesome! The coco isn't bad either. Looking forward to further mixing experimentation!

Morgan, you're awesome! i thought the banana was good, but all of my co-tasters, and myself preferred the coconut! Banana Pineapple Mist excellent choice!!

[SuperCorona]

I went with the Cruzan Coconut Rum with pineapple juice tonight and it's pretty tasty.

[kato13]

Has anyone tried Coco Maina by Wray & Nephew? It's got more kick than Malibu or Parrot Bay (47% alcohol I believe) and delicious mixed with a variety of fruit juices. I am not a sipper.
I bring some home from Jamaica whenever I can but can't seem to find it ANYWHERE in the states.

Can anyone lead me in the right direction?

Thanks!!

I have tried Bacardi CoCo and it's just not what I'l looking for. cheers.gif

[RobertBurr]

I have Coco Mania from Jamaica also. Very good coconut rum in a very colorful bottle. I think Brown and Foreman had it when they imported Wray & Nephew and Appleton. Have not seen it lately in Miami.

[kato13]

Well, I am off to Jamaica in a little over 2 weeks. Guess it's my only option.
Does anyone have any advice on carrying back a case of rum into the states?? glass.gif

Thanks for the reply Robert!

Kate

[TheRumelier]

The W&N Cocomania we sell is 40% alc/vol which is stronger than Malibu at 21, Parrot Bay at 21, Bacardi at 35 and Cruzan at 27.5. So if you want a rum that is the same strength as a regular rum this is definitely the one to buy. It does have a nice taste and aroma to it aswell, with just a little burn (I have a damaged bottle in my office I just tried!!) It would go great with some juices or coke. Have a good vacation in Jamaica, don't forget to try the national drink of Jamaica, W&N Overproof and some Jerk Pork.:p

[tym2relax]

I got a hold of some Whalers Killer Coconut rum over the weekend and have to say I it's a step up from Malibu. The Whalers has a fresher coconut taste with no alcohol bite. The Malibu seemed harsher in comparison.

I still have to get a hold of the higher proof Brinley's, but for now the Whalers is the way to go.

[primate77]

The Brinley's Coconut is quite nice, and I'll also say that the Whaler's Killer Coconut is good.

[tym2relax]

The Brinley's Coconut is quite nice, and I'll also say that the Whaler's Killer Coconut is good.

Which of the two do you prefer?

[primate77]

I'm a big Brinley fan!!!

[RedRum]

Have you heard of Jolly Roger Coconut & Key Lime Rum -- new to the market, and I belive it can be found at Albertson's in Florida. Very good, at 50 proof, in a pretty cool bottle too.

[Edward Hamilton]

Welcome to the forrums RedRum. Please take a minute and introduce yourself on the Introduction (http://www.ministryofrum.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=3) section of the forrums.

[Martin Doudoroff]

Ok, we've discussed some commercial coconut rum products, many of which are actually liqueurs and some of which are… dubious at best.

What about making your own?

Does coconut-infused rum have a tradition behind it?

Right off the bat, I speculate that I’d want a coconut rum that is:

either completely unsweetened or only very lightly sweetened
rum first, coconut second


Thoughts?

[TheRumelier]

Bambarra Coconut Rum soon come to a TCI store and bars near me soon!!
Might be ready for Miami and Puerto Rio!!!drooling.gif

[Michael]

Is there any chance that the Bambarra lineup may make it to the San Francisco MOR Festival later this month?

[TheRumelier]

Unfortunately I only get a limited ammount of vacation a year, and it comes out of my pocket, so most likely not, but I am very willing to send you a bottle on me to see what you thinkdrooling.gif
So far the reaction has been good. Just send me a private message with your address etc.
The rest of you guys one at a timethankyou.gif

[RobertBurr]

Bob, you've been very busy! I'm looking forward to trying the coconut in Miami.

[TheRumelier]

Bob, you've been very busy! I'm looking forward to trying the coconut in Miami.

Hopefully it will be ready by then, it will be cutting it close though. It is going to be about 35% alc/vol, so a little stronger than most. We are also working on a Cuba Libre and Mojito RTD's for the liquor stores (and tourists). The four rums will also be available in 350ml sizes soon, incase you don't need a whole litre of rum!! Eventually they will be available in a four pack gift-box, a great souvenir from the islands!!

[XxMerlinxX]

Lately I've been using something called Coconut Jack, it's a 21% coconut rum that's fairly close to Malibu and Parrot Bay, but half as expensive. This is obviously not for sipping, too sweet for that, but works well in mixed drinks. Last night I used it with a little orange and pineapple juice plus a splash of grenadine, wasn't bad at all.

[primate77]

hmmmmm... Coconut Jack... I remember thee well. I mixed up Coconut Jack and pineapple juice and had about five tall ones.

Next thing I knew I was lying on the floor in my bathroom, and the porcelain sink was broken in half!

It wasn't what you think... it was a massive change to the blood sugar level.

Cheap - and good enough to try again.gzzg

[Eastside3]

Do you sell the Wray & Nephew Coco Mania? Ive been searching high and low to see how I can get this after having gotten back from our first trip to Jamaica. I need to source this and thought you may either sell it or know a suggested source. If all else fails, how does the Marti Coco Suave compare? Ive heard good things about it too. But my focus is on trying to find Coco Mania.

[stockdoct]

My friends and I have jsut had a coconut-rum tasting contest.

The first stage ws to try the rums plain, straight up. Here's the results:

Whaler's coconut rum: best of class
Malibu: surprisingly, in a blind taste test came second
Cruzan: "with natural flavors" was considered bland. This is the rum I've always used in my rum-coconut/rum - lime and tonic concoctions that everyone likes, but maybe ..........

Next taste test will be using the rum in the drink

[RobertBurr]

Naiguata from Venezula and Bugalu from Puerto Rico are fine examples of coconut rum. I tried the DonQ recently and liked it.

[bigsky]

hey Robert are either of these two that you posted as good as Ricardo and if so can you purchase online anywhere. I believe Ricardo is the best out there
as of right now

[RobertBurr]

I think the Don Q coconut should be available online at popular venues.

[Edward Hamilton]

Brinley Gold Coconut Rum (../rumdetails.php?r=483) is one of my favorites. Rum Jumbie Coconut Splash (../rumdetails.php?r=682) at 24% abv is also worth searching for and it won a Gold Medal at the 2009 Ministry of Rum Tasting Comeptiton (../2009.php).

[gmarket]

most coconut rums we can get in the UK are very poor, but i picked up a bottle of tiburon coconut rum today. i really rate it; a bit more akin to bailey's though.