J. Wray & Nephew Overproof White Rum

J. Wray & Nephew White Overproof is the rum Jamaicans reach for at home, bottled unaged at 63%, or 126 proof. It is made from molasses in pot and column stills, and the producer traces its history in Jamaica back nearly two centuries.

Neat it is hot and fairly dry, with plantain, grass, cane stalk, roasted nuts and a hint of charcoal. A little water or ice opens it up and brings the fruit forward.

Nothing else on our shelf gives a punch or a tiki drink this much Jamaican character for the money. For something gentler from Jamaica, pick Appleton Estate Signature; for even more strength, Forres Park Puncheon from Trinidad is 75%.

The producer's own serve is Wray's Rum Punch: rum, lime, sugar and fruit juice over plenty of ice. Use a little less than you would of a standard rum, or lengthen it with soda or ginger beer.

Sizes run from 50ml to 1.75L. More overproof and white bottles are under rum. Pick it up at our Brooklyn store or get same-day delivery across NYC.