Americans generally have a sweeter palate. Unlike a lot of cocktails, where you have to add in simple syrups and the like to pump up the sweetness, rum comes with an inherent sugariness to it, because it’s made from molasses.

Most white liquors mix well, and rum is no exception. It provides a clean base, something you can add lots of different flavors to, like fruit juices, herbs, and even vegetables. It imparts its own flavor while enhancing whatever you mix it with.

Dark rum gets you into another category as you work your way toward a pure sipping experience. Here again, it mixes well to create simple cocktails to sip on the patio. Enjoy small-production or vintage rum all on its own.