When I’m out looking for a drink, I’m always on the lookout for something new, something I have yet to try. The past few years have seen an explosion of new flavoured products hit the shelves, and with that there has been more choice than ever before. Over the years Bacardi has released a number of tremendous flavoured rums, and their newest expression, Bacardi Arctic Grape, is no exception. Flavoured with white grapes and infused with arctic berries, its aroma brings back memories of grape popsicles and Kool-Aid.
Bacardi Arctic Grape is one of many in a line of flavoured rums I’ve sampled, and it’s certainly one of my favourites. Much like most flavoured rums, it pairs well with cola, lemon-lime soda, and club soda, but it really stands out when paired with grape soda. My first inclination with flavoured rum is to pair it with cola, as everything seems to pair well with cola. My first glass, with cola, was as I imagined, fresh and fruity without being overpowered by the spirit. As I savoured my first glass it was a reminder of some of the other flavours, Limon and Razz specifically, that certainly benefit from being paired with cola, and soon after I went to pour glass number two. As I opened the fridge to retrieve the cola, I noticed a can of grape soda sitting on the door, and inspiration took over. I hesitated at first, would that be too much grape, or had I stumbled upon the next big thing. After a quick deliberation with the little voice in my head, I opened the can and added it to my measure of grape rum. I was instantly taken back by the flavour, it was a sweet taste that mimicked all the grape products of my childhood, and yet there was no indication of any spirit whatsoever. For those of you who know me, you know that I pour myself a fairly modest measure, and yet this drink was exceptionally smooth.
Bacardi Arctic Grape is fabulous. I can’t say enough for the taste, it is certainly one of, if not the best flavoured rum in the Bacardi line-up. Obviously with a product like this, there are many ways to enjoy it, but to get the most out of the flavour I would recommend having it this way:
- 2 oz Bacardi Arctic Grape
- 4 oz Grade soda
- Garnish with a lemon or lime (if available)
This is the sort of beverage I would recommend to anyone who would like to go out drinking but doesn’t like the taste of alcohol. When paired with the right mix, it’s nearly unnoticeable and it has such a refreshing taste. Knowing Bacardi’s history with flavoured rums I certainly await their next expression, but I must admit that they have some work to do in order to top their Arctic Grape. I’m always willing to try something new, but it may be a long time before I find another product that is so remarkably delicious.
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