Transporting you to a tropical paradise with a simple sip, rum is one of the top beverages in the world.  Originally produced in the Caribbean, there are now an estimated 2,000 varieties on offer.  The Luxury Travel Guide presents the top five choices for rum aficionados. 
 
Martinique: Rhum Clément Rhum Vieux X.O
 
From one of the French Caribbean islands comes the woodland flavour of Rhum Clément Rhum Vieux X.O.  A bouquet of charcoal and oak aromas, the semi-sweet finish will sustain your every need.  Dating back to the late 1800s, this dark rum saw a huge rise by the opening of its distillery in 1917.  This was due to large requests for alcohol during the First World War.  Brimming with history, the toasty flavours of this rum head straight to the heart and can be enjoyed simply on its own or in a classic passion fruit cocktail.
 
Bermuda: Gosling’s Black Seal Rum
 
Packed with a mean punch and building in intensity through the finish is Gosling’s Black Seal Rum.  Caramel amber in its appearance, it is one of the top sipping rums filled with zesty orange and fruit cake.  The rum gained its name from the black sealing wax used on the champagne bottles when it was sold in the 1800s.  Linked to 18th Century pirates, this rum brings the sound of the thrashing waves and anchors, a unique voyage perpetuated by flavours of cinnamon and sugar.  Mix this with ginger beer for an electrifying taste.
 
Dominican Republic: Vizcaya
 
Smooth enough to sip straight, Vizcaya is succulently sweet, throwing you into the depths of luxury.  Using traditional methods of crafting and dating back to the 19th Century, this white rum is rich in history and flavour.  The rum is fermented, distilled in small batches and then aged carefully in selected barrels that previously contained bourbon.  Light bodied, smelling of honeysuckle and chocolate, a single sip of this rum will warm your soul.  Best served straight or on the rocks, it can be added to a fruit cocktail – complement its sweet flavours and enjoy a tropical treat. 
 
Venezuela: Real Carúpano Legendario Rum
 
Named after the Venezuelan city, the poignant taste of Real Carúpano Legendario Rum is desired by all.  Long and persistent in its finish, the bright amber rum is aged for up to 80 years.  Intense in its nutty taste, the velvety texture of this rum instantly results in pure satisfaction.  Diluted using demineralised water, each casket is analysed and thoroughly checked before the true perfection of Real Carúpano Legendario Rum is achieved.  Candied with hazelnut, walnut and citrus the strength of this luxurious drink will leave any rum drinkers in awe of its flavours. 
 
New York, USA: Owney’s
 
Get a taste of the Big Apple with this vanilla flavoured white rum.  With a medium long finish, this tongue tantalising drink perfectly blends the acidic taste of New York apples with the sharp taste of mint.  Although the Owney’s distillery was only founded in 2011, it has already earned a reputation as one of the city’s best rum offerings.  Complex in its taste, Owney’s is made from all natural and high quality sugar content.  The distinctive taste of this rum can be enjoyed with most of the classic cocktails and is an adventurous escape from busy city life.  

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