Best Rum for Pina Colada: Top Brands and Recommendations

Pina colada is a tropical cocktail that originated in Puerto Rico and is now enjoyed worldwide. The drink is made with rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice, and is usually served blended or shaken with ice. The key to a perfect pina colada is choosing the right rum, which can make or break the drink.

When it comes to choosing the best rum for pina colada, there are a few things to consider. First, the rum should be light-bodied and not too overpowering, so it doesn’t compete with the other flavors in the drink. Second, the rum should have a subtle sweetness that complements the coconut and pineapple flavors. Finally, the rum should be affordable, as pina coladas are often enjoyed in large batches at parties and gatherings.

After researching and testing various rums, we have identified the top contenders for the title of “best rum for pina colada”. These rums have been chosen based on their flavor profile, affordability, and popularity among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a classic pina colada or a modern twist on the recipe, these rums are sure to elevate your cocktail game.

Best Rums for Piña Coladas

We’ve scoured the market to bring you the best rums for making the perfect piña colada. Whether you’re looking for a light and fruity drink or a rich and complex flavor, we’ve got you covered. Our selection includes rums from all over the world, each with its unique taste and aroma. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best rums to use in your next piña colada.

1) Jordan’s Skinny Mixes Pina Colada Cocktail Mixer

If you’re looking for a guilt-free way to enjoy a delicious pina colada, Jordan’s Skinny Mixes Pina Colada Cocktail Mixer might be the perfect solution for you.

We recently tried Jordan’s Skinny Mixes Pina Colada Cocktail Mixer and were impressed with how easy it was to make a delicious pina colada without any added sugar or calories. Simply shake the mixer with your favorite spirit and ice, pour into a glass, and garnish with a cherry and a slice of pineapple.

The tropical flavor of the pina colada was refreshing and satisfying, and we appreciated that we could enjoy it without any guilt. We also appreciated that Jordan’s Skinny Mixes are made in the USA and are suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.

Overall, if you’re looking for a low-calorie, low-carb, and low-sugar way to enjoy a delicious pina colada, Jordan’s Skinny Mixes Pina Colada Cocktail Mixer is definitely worth trying.

2) 2 Friends & A Blender Pina Colada Frozen Slushy Cocktail Mix

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to make a delicious Pina Colada, then you should definitely try the 2 Friends & A Blender Pina Colada Frozen Slushy Cocktail Mix.

We recently tried the 2 Friends & A Blender Pina Colada Frozen Slushy Cocktail Mix and were impressed with how easy it was to prepare. All we had to do was add ice, rum, and the mix into a blender and blend until smooth. The result was a delicious and refreshing Pina Colada that tasted like it was made by a professional bartender.

The mix can also be used with different types of alcohol, such as vodka, wine, or tequila, making it a versatile choice for any party. The non-alcoholic directions on the label also make it easy for everyone to enjoy, including kids and non-drinkers.

The 2 Friends & A Blender Pina Colada Frozen Slushy Cocktail Mix is perfect for entertaining and can make up to 56oz of slushy, so you don’t have to worry about running out of drinks. However, some customers found the mix too sweet for their taste, so you might want to adjust the amount of mix you use to suit your preference.

Overall, we highly recommend the 2 Friends & A Blender Pina Colada Frozen Slushy Cocktail Mix for anyone who wants a hassle-free way to make a delicious Pina Colada.

3) Finest Call Premium Pina Colada Drink Mix

If you’re looking for a high-quality pina colada drink mix, Finest Call Premium Pina Colada Drink Mix is a great option.

We recently tried this product and were impressed with the quality of the mix. The real coconut and pineapple juice provided a full and authentic flavor that was perfect for making delicious cocktails. We also appreciated the patented packaging with a bartender-designed dispensing closure, which made for precise and speedy pouring.

One of the standout features of this product is its 100% consistent flavor and yield. This means that every time you use it, you can expect the same great taste and texture. This makes it a reliable option for those who want to ensure their cocktails turn out perfectly every time.

While some may prefer a more natural option without added preservatives, we found that the added ingredients didn’t detract from the overall quality of the product. However, it’s important to note that those with allergies to coconut or pineapple should avoid this product.

Overall, we highly recommend Finest Call Premium Pina Colada Drink Mix for those looking for a high-quality and reliable option for making delicious cocktails.

4) Hawaiian Shaved Ice Syrup Pint, Pina Colada Flavor

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to make pina coladas at home, the Hawaiian Shaved Ice Syrup Pint in Pina Colada Flavor is a great option.

Overall, we would recommend the Hawaiian Shaved Ice Syrup Pint in Pina Colada Flavor for anyone looking for an easy and delicious way to make pina coladas at home. The syrup has a great taste and can also be used for other drinks and desserts.

5) Thousand Oaks Barrel Coconut Rum Essence

If you’re looking to make your own coconut rum at home, then Thousand Oaks Barrel Coconut Rum Essence might be a good choice for you.

If you’re a fan of coconut rum and want to make your own at home, Thousand Oaks Barrel Coconut Rum Essence is a good choice to consider. The essence is specially formulated to mimic the taste of premium spirit mash bills and distilling styles, making it indistinguishable from many known brands. Additionally, the flavor expands and oak notes are imparted when aged in a small or mini oak barrel, providing additional flavor notes inherent only in top shelf aged products.

One thing to keep in mind is that you will need 3 full bottles at least to get a definitive flavor in a 5th of spirits like you’re used to if you drink commercially made coconut rum. Additionally, the essence may not be as strong as expected, so you may need to use more than anticipated to get the desired flavor. Finally, the packaging is small, with only 20 milliliters in a packet, so you may need to purchase multiple packets for larger batches.

Overall, if you’re looking to make your own coconut rum at home, Thousand Oaks Barrel Coconut Rum Essence is a solid option to consider.

6) LAVA Premium Coco Pina Colada

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make delicious Pina Colada cocktails, the LAVA Premium Coco Pina Colada mixer is a great option.

We recently tried the LAVA Premium Coco Pina Colada mixer and were pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to use. The mixture of real pineapple and cream of coconut gave it a perfect consistency, and the fruity sweetness and nutty creaminess of coconut made it taste like a tropical paradise.

One of the best things about this mixer is that it’s made without any artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors, making it a healthier option than many other Pina Colada mixers on the market. Plus, each bottle makes 8-12 cocktails, making it a great value for the price.

However, some users have reported issues with the packaging and leaking bottles, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the mixer may be too sweet for those who prefer a less sweet cocktail, and the flavor may not be as authentic as making a Pina Colada from scratch.

Overall, if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make delicious Pina Colada cocktails, the LAVA Premium Coco Pina Colada mixer is a great option. Just be aware of the potential packaging issues and sweetness level before making your purchase.

7) Goya Pina Colada Mix

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make a piña colada, Goya Pina Colada Mix may be a good option for you.

We tried Goya Pina Colada Mix and found that it was easy to use and had a good balance of pineapple and coconut flavors. The mix was also affordable and could be a good option for those on a budget.

However, we did find that the can may arrive dented or damaged, making it difficult to use. Additionally, the mix may be too sweet for some people’s tastes and may not have the same quality as a freshly made piña colada.

Overall, if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make a piña colada, Goya Pina Colada Mix may be a good option for you. However, if you’re looking for a more authentic and high-quality piña colada, you may want to consider making it from scratch.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best rum for a pina colada, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Type of Rum

There are three main types of rum: white, gold, and dark. White rum is the most common choice for pina coladas, as it has a light and clean flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients. Gold rum is slightly aged and has a richer flavor, while dark rum is the most aged and has a bold and complex taste. Consider the flavor profile you want for your pina colada and choose a rum accordingly.

Alcohol Content

The alcohol content of rum can vary widely, from 40% ABV to over 70% ABV. For a pina colada, you’ll want to choose a rum with a lower alcohol content, around 40-50% ABV. This will ensure that the drink is not too strong and that the other flavors can shine through.

Price

The price of rum can also vary widely, from budget-friendly options to high-end bottles. Keep in mind that a more expensive rum doesn’t necessarily mean it’s better for a pina colada. Look for a rum that fits your budget and has the right flavor profile and alcohol content for your needs.

Brand Reputation

Finally, consider the reputation of the brand you’re considering. Look for a brand that has a good reputation for quality and consistency. You can also read reviews or ask for recommendations from bartenders or other rum enthusiasts to help guide your decision.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best rum for your pina colada and create a delicious and refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of rum enhances the flavor of a Piña Colada?

The best rum for a Piña Colada is a light-bodied rum with a subtle flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients. A good choice is a Puerto Rican or Cuban rum, such as Bacardi or Havana Club. These rums have a slightly sweet flavor that complements the pineapple and coconut flavors in the drink.

Which affordable rum brands are recommended for a flavorful Piña Colada?

If you’re on a budget, there are several affordable rum brands that work well in a Piña Colada. Some good options include Don Q, Flor de Caña, and Mount Gay Eclipse. These rums are affordable, but still have a smooth and flavorful taste that enhances the drink.

Can dark rum be used in a traditional Piña Colada recipe?

While light rum is traditionally used in a Piña Colada, dark rum can also be used to add a richer flavor to the drink. However, it’s important to note that dark rum has a stronger flavor than light rum, so you may need to adjust the other ingredients to balance out the flavors.

How does Malibu rum compare to other rums for making a Piña Colada?

Malibu rum is a popular choice for making Piña Coladas, as it has a sweet and coconutty flavor that complements the other ingredients. However, some people find that Malibu can be too sweet, so it’s important to use it in moderation and balance it out with other ingredients.

What distinguishes white rum from dark rum in a Piña Colada?

White rum is a clear, light-bodied rum that has a subtle flavor and is perfect for mixing in cocktails like Piña Coladas. Dark rum, on the other hand, is aged longer and has a stronger flavor that can add richness to the drink. While both types of rum can be used in a Piña Colada, white rum is the traditional choice.

Does the inclusion of Bacardi rum improve the taste of a Piña Colada?

Bacardi is a popular choice for making Piña Coladas, as it has a smooth and slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients. However, the taste of a Piña Colada ultimately depends on the quality of the ingredients and the proportions used. While Bacardi can enhance the flavor of a Piña Colada, it’s not the only option and other rums can be used as well.