Smith & Cross Traditional Jamaica Rum
The Verdict
Smith & Cross is not subtle. This is navy strength Jamaican rum with all the intensity that implies. It’s funky, it’s bold, and it will completely change your understanding of what rum can be. Not for the timid, essential for the serious.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Intense tropical fruit—overripe pineapple and banana. Then the funk hits: olive brine, soy sauce, umami. Sounds weird, tastes amazing.
Palate: At 57% ABV, there’s heat, but it’s not harsh. That same tropical fruit character, but amplified. The ester-forward profile brings notes of fermenting fruit, molasses, and spice. It’s complex in a way that demands attention.
Finish: Long and powerful. The funk lingers, along with brown sugar and warming spice.
In Cocktails
This is where Smith & Cross justifies its place on your shelf. A Jungle Bird with S&C becomes transcendent. A Corn n’ Oil reaches new heights. Even a half-ounce float on a Zombie transforms the drink. The high proof and intense flavor mean you often use it in smaller amounts, making the bottle last surprisingly long.
Fair Warning
Don’t use this in place of a light rum. Don’t put this in a Mojito. Respect its power and deploy it strategically. Used correctly, it’s irreplaceable.