# Staple Varieties

_You don't have to be a rum collector to cover the basics._

## Bacardi Reserva Ocho (8-Year)

A column still aged rum (④). This is an excellent
introductory rum—as is the 10-year variety. It is
smooth enough to sip and versatile enough to be used in most
cocktails. Bacardi has impressive distribution and this rum
is available in many grocery stores.

## Gosling's Black Seal

A black blended rum (⑤). Aside from being the cornerstone of
a _Dark 'n Stormy_ or a _Cuba Libre_, Gosling's is a great
choice whenever a recipe—baking or cocktail—calls for a
"dark" or "black blended" rum. It is superior to Myer's dark
rum in every way.

## Journeyman Road's End

A pot still lightly aged rum (①). Journeyman makes two
varieties: an unaged regular proof and a lightly aged
overproof. They are both excellent.

## Appleton Estate Reserve (12-Year)

A blended aged rum (③) with enough pot still rum and years
of aging to make it richer and more complex than, say, the
Bacardi 8-Year. In addition to being a delight on it's own,
it is perfect for many cocktails. It is a good rum to expand
your palate.

## Rhum Barbencourt Réserve Sépciale (5 star/8-Year)

A readily-available cane coffey still aged rum made from
fresh cane juice. This is a good introduction to this style
of spirit. In a pinch, it can be used as a subistiute for an
AOC rhum agricole or cachaça.