A major challenge in making non-alcoholic hard spirits is to replicate the drinking experience. Unfortunately, there are no variants that capture the depth of spiced rum. But some brands have made great strides when it comes to recreating the taste and aroma of rum. The products work particularly well in long drinks. The two rum alternatives below are my favorites because while they don’t have the depth of rum, they have a pleasant and strong aroma and flavor that doesn’t go away in a blender. They’re a great choice for rum lovers who don’t drink alcohol anymore.
Lyre’s Spiced Cane Spirit: This award-winning rum alternative from Australian company Lyre’s has a semi-sweet, pleasant taste. With plenty of caramel and high notes of vanilla, the alternative is slightly sweet and aromatic, while toasted nuts give it a nice warmth and depth of flavor. The aftertaste resembles the mouthfeel of spiced rum.
Laori Spice No2: The second release of the Berlin distillery Laori. Spice is made with twelve individually distilled spices to create a pleasant, rich rum flavor. Vanilla, warm spices and smoked oak add warmth and flavor while coffee and pineapple add gentle sweetness and depth.
Both are vegan, low in sugar and calories and an excellent alternative to rum in long drinks and cocktails.
To discover: If you like flavored drinks and are looking for a new alternative, I recommend the Floral Wormwood from Gnista, a Swedish producer of fine non-alcoholic spirits. It is a unique spiced drink made from herbs like floral wormwood, citrus fruits, ginger and lovage like a real fine spirit. The Floral Wormwood is herbaceous, sweet and very rich in flavor. Unlike a traditional rum alternative, the taste is unique but intense. It can be drunk neat over ice or as part of a cocktail. I like to mix it with Prosecco and a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing, sour drink.
Would you like to get to know other non-alcoholic alternatives? Here you will find the other articles in the zero per mille series:
All the drinks presented in the “Zero Alcohol” series have been selected and tasted by the editors. They are only recommended if they meet our quality standards.
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