Mad River Distillers Rum

Mad River Distillers First Run Rum is built for drinkers who care about what’s in the glass and how it’s made. This is not a generic, bulk-produced rum. It starts with fair-trade demerara sugar rather than molasses, giving the distillers a cleaner base spirit and the freedom to distill at a lower proof, preserving more aroma and flavor from the cane.

The rum is pot-distilled in small batches in Vermont, then aged in new, charred American oak barrels, the same type of cask used for bourbon and rye. That choice matters. New oak brings structure and depth, adding notes of vanilla, toasted oak, caramel, and a touch of smoke to the natural cane sweetness. A relatively short initial maturation keeps the rum vibrant and energetic, while still rounding off the edges into a smooth, cohesive profile.

Bottled at 96 proof (48% ABV), First Run Rum is intentionally left robust. On the nose, you can expect hints of molasses-like richness, ripe tropical fruit, and brown sugar. The palate follows with caramel, baking spices, and subtle oak, finishing long and warm without becoming harsh. That extra proof carries flavor well in cocktails and gives you the flexibility to add ice or a splash of water without washing it out.

In the glass, First Run Rum is as versatile as it is distinctive. It can stand in for a quality bourbon in Old Fashioneds or rum Manhattans, yet it also shines in classic rum drinks like Daiquiris, Mai Tais, and rum punches. When you want to slow down, it works beautifully neat or over a single large cube, revealing more oak and spice as it opens up.

Backed by strong scores at major spirits competitions, Mad River Distillers First Run Rum offers a serious, craft-driven option for anyone building a thoughtful bar, especially whiskey fans looking to explore rum without sacrificing depth or integrity.