When it comes to the soulful spirits of the Caribbean, rum stands out as an iconic and cherished drink.
Born in the 17th century on the Caribbean islands, rum has a fascinating history and a unique range of flavours. One place where you can truly immerse yourself in the world of Caribbean rum is the Dunn’s Rum Club, nestled in the heart of Sandals Dunn’s River Resort in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.
Discover the Heritage of Caribbean Rum
Rum, crafted from sugarcane molasses or sugarcane juice, undergoes fermentation and distillation to produce a clear liquid. To add depth and character, the rum is then aged in oak barrels. The Caribbean is the birthplace of this beloved spirit, initially referred to as “kill-devil” or “rumbullion.” Over time, it spread to other corners of the globe through trade and colonization, but its authentic and distinct flavours always trace back to its Caribbean origins.
At Dunn’s Rum Club, guests are treated to a nostalgic journey that celebrates the essence of the Caribbean. The club offers an impressive array of rum cocktails and delectable island-inspired small bites. Bartenders, with their expertise, blend local and imported rums to craft delightful concoctions like the iconic Planter’s Punch. Infused with fresh fruit juices, grenadine, bitters, and, of course, lots of rum, this signature drink embodies the true spirit of the Caribbean.
Savour the Signature Cocktails of Sandals Resorts
Dunn’s Rum Club promises an authentic Caribbean experience, transporting visitors through a variety of smooth rums and their unique profiles. As you indulge in the finest rums, the club provides an opportunity to learn and play Jamaican rules dominoes, adding a touch of local tradition and camaraderie to your adventure.
Apart from the exclusive offerings at Dunn’s Rum Club, Sandals Resorts boasts an impressive repertoire of signature cocktails that captivate guests across various locations.
Planter’s Punch
As the star cocktail at Dunn’s Rum Club, the Planter’s Punch embodies the essence of the Caribbean in every sip. Here’s how you can recreate this magical concoction:
Ingredients:
- 15 ml Dark Rum (Myers or Appleton recommended)
- 30 ml Jamaican Gold Rum
- 10 ml Simple Syrup
- 15 ml Lime juice
- 15 ml Grenadine
- Garnish: Orange slice
Directions:
- Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker.
- Add ice to fill 3/4 of the shaker and shake vigorously for 7-10 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into an iced large-handled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a slice of orange and enjoy the tropical delight.
Sake Cruise
Found at select Sandals Resorts’ restaurants (Soy, Kimonos, and Gatsu Gatsu), the Sake Cruise delivers a fusion of flavours with a Caribbean twist:
Ingredients:
- 55 ml Sake
- 15 ml Vanilla Vodka
- 30 ml Pineapple juice
- 15 ml Cranberry juice
- 15 ml Grenadine
- Garnish: ½ tbsp fresh, crushed pineapple chunks, and a pineapple slice
Directions:
- Fill a stemless wine glass with ice.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine all ingredients and shake until well mixed.
- Pour the mix over the ice in the wine glass.
- Garnish with crushed pineapple chunks and a pineapple slice for a vibrant finish.
Smoked Pineapple Margarita
Enjoyed at the Sky Rooftop Bar in Sandals Royal Barbados, the Smoked Pineapple Margarita is a captivating blend of smoky and tropical notes:
Ingredients:
- 45 ml Tequila (Jose Cuervo Especial Silver Tequila recommended)
- 30 ml Cointreau
- 15 ml Lime juice
- 30 ml Pineapple juice
- 15 ml Simple Syrup
- Splash of sprite
- Jack Daniels Smoking Crisps
- Garnish: ½ tbsp fresh, crushed pineapple chunks
Directions:
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine all ingredients and shake until well combined.
- Strain the drink into a small tumbler glass.
- Place damp Jack Daniels Smoking Crisps in a smoker and turn it on.
- Fill the small tumbler glass with smoke.
- Serve the cocktail in the smoked glass or pour it into a margarita glass filled with ice and garnish with pineapple chunks.
Conclusion
If you crave an authentic Caribbean experience filled with the finest rums and captivating cocktails, Dunn’s Rum Club at Sandals Dunn’s River in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, is a must-visit destination. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of rum and let the expert bartenders take you on a remarkable journey through the Caribbean, one sip at a time. With signature cocktails from Sandals Resorts, you can elevate your tropical getaway and indulge in the unique tastes of the Caribbean. Cheers to the beauty of rum and the vibrant spirit of the islands!