Overproof Rum

Overproof rum, often referred to as navy rum or navy strength rum, is a high-alcohol spirit that typically contains more than 50% ABV (alcohol by volume), with some varieties reaching up to 75.5% ABV. The term “navy strength” originates from the British Royal Navy, where rum was historically issued as part of sailors’ daily rations. To ensure the rum wasn’t watered down, a test was devised: if gunpowder soaked in rum could still ignite, the rum was deemed “proof”—hence the term “gunpowder proof”. Navy strength rum is traditionally bottled at 54.5% ABV, a standard established by the Admiralty in 1866. This potent spirit was valued not just for its kick, but for its durability aboard ships during long voyages. Today, overproof rum is prized in cocktails that require bold flavour and intensity, such as Tiki drinks or fiery punches. While it’s not typically sipped neat due to its strength, it adds depth and heat when used sparingly.

Popular choices include the Zombie, a tiki classic layered with tropical juices and multiple rums, and the Hurricane, a vibrant New Orleans favourite. Creative twists like the Espresso Storm—blending overproof rum with coffee liqueur—and the Trelawny Daiquiri, which showcases Jamaican overproof rum’s fruity notes, highlight its versatility. Even refined concoctions like the Smoked Navy Flip, made with egg yolk and nutmeg, benefit from its depth and warmth.

Rum comes in a wide variety of styles, each offering distinct flavours, colours, and uses. White rum is light and crisp, often used in cocktails like mojitos and daiquiris. Gold rum, also known as amber rum, is aged longer and has mellow notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice. Dark rum is deeply aged, rich, and full-bodied, ideal for sipping or adding depth to bold cocktails. Spiced rum is infused with warming spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, making it a flavourful choice for mixed drinks. Overproof rum has a much higher alcohol content and is typically used sparingly in punches or flambé recipes. Additionally, agricole rum, made from fresh sugarcane juice rather than molasses, offers a grassy, earthy profile and is popular in French-speaking Caribbean regions. These diverse styles make rum one of the most versatile spirits in the world, perfect for everything from tropical cocktails to refined sipping. Even for those that seek something very different and like Flavoured rum, these can come in a wide range of popular flavours like pineapple, cherry or banana!

Drink Finder has been trading for more than half a century. In that time, we’ve gained a reputation for excellence not only in the products we stock at fantastic prices but also in the excellent customer service we offer. We deliver nationwide in the UK and to some parts of the EU as well, with hassle-free, reliable delivery. Find out more about our rum expertise on our blog: Rum 101: Yo Hoho and a Bottle of Rum & The Best Rum Cocktails to Make at Home