Last Updated on March 8, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Deciding which of the two impeccable rum is better between Captain Morgan Rum or Bacardi is not easy. Many have tried to differentiate what makes one better than the other but are still unsure.
Based on their unique savor and the strength of their alcohol presence, we crafted this Captain Morgan vs Bacardi article to help you decide which one is indeed better.
All About Captain Morgan
Captain Morgan is a renowned brand of rum that has become synonymous with Caribbean-inspired spirits. Originating from Jamaica, the brand’s iconic figurehead, Captain Henry Morgan, a 17th-century Welsh privateer, adds a touch of swashbuckling charm to its image. Known for its distinctive, spiced rum, Captain Morgan offers a range of expressions, including the original Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, which is infused with a blend of exotic spices and aged in charred oak barrels for a smooth finish.
The brand has expanded its portfolio to include various flavored rums, such as Captain Morgan Pineapple Rum and Captain Morgan Coconut Rum, catering to diverse palates. Recognized for its versatility, Captain Morgan is often enjoyed in a variety of cocktails, with the classic Captain and Cola being a popular choice.
With its rich history and Caribbean flair, Captain Morgan has become a staple in the world of rum, embodying the spirit of adventure and celebration. Whether sipped neat, on the rocks, or mixed into cocktails, Captain Morgan’s distinct and flavorful offerings continue to captivate rum enthusiasts worldwide.
All About Bacardi
Captain Morgan vs Bacardi: Which Rum Is Better?
Captain Morgan Original Spiced was introduced in 1984 by its manufacturer, Diageo. Captain Morgan Original Spiced rums blend natural flavors such as pepper, clove, and Caribbean spices. Its savor is based on gold rums, which have bursting tastes of cinnamon, pepper, vanilla, rosemary, and caramel.
Bacardi is a dark rum known to be medium-bodied, a blend made by the Maestros de Ron Bacardi. Its flavor is a tug of war between salty and nutty-buttered, with chocolate raisins and fruity taste hints. The popular Bacardi Select has this great blend but leaves a peppery savor with a hint of creamy flan.
Head To Head Comparison
Taste
Both are blended rum, so this is just a matter of which manufacturer did it better and leaves an unforgettable flavor. Captain Morgan Original Spiced drink uses secret blends of spices and vanilla charred in white oak barrels. It leaves the drinkers with a completely different liquor similar to a gold rum but with darker and fuller taste.
Bacardi is medium-bodied and has a sweet, toffee-hazelnut flavor which is better when mixed with other beverages.
Also Read: What Does Rum Taste Like?
Nose
Captain Morgan Spiced Rum typically presents a nose with inviting aromas of vanilla, caramel, and a blend of warm spices. The spiced character is prominent, offering a fragrant and approachable bouquet that hints at the exotic spices used in the rum’s production.
Bacardi Superior, being a white rum, often exhibits a lighter and more delicate nose. Aromas of subtle tropical fruits, citrus, and a hint of sweetness characterize Bacardi Superior. It’s a cleaner and crisper profile compared to the spicier notes found in Captain Morgan.
Palate
The palate of Captain Morgan is marked by its spiced character, offering a harmonious blend of vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The spices complement the underlying sweetness, creating a smooth and flavorful profile. The texture is often rich and warming, contributing to a well-rounded taste experience.
Bacardi Superior, known for its versatility, presents a palate featuring light tropical fruit notes, a mild sweetness, and a subtle hint of vanilla. The palate is crisp and clean, making it suitable for various cocktail applications. It lacks the pronounced spiciness found in Captain Morgan.
Mash Bill
The exact mash bill for Captain Morgan is proprietary and not disclosed by the brand. However, it is known to be a blend of Caribbean rums infused with spices and flavors during the aging process.
Bacardi Superior is primarily made from molasses, a byproduct of sugarcane, and is distilled using a column still. The specific mash bill details, including the blend of sugarcane varieties used, are proprietary to Bacardi.
Finish
The finish of Captain Morgan is characterized by a lingering warmth from the spices, with sweet notes continuing into the aftertaste. The spices contribute to a satisfying and well-balanced finish.
Bacardi Superior typically has a clean and short finish. Its light tropical fruit notes and mild sweetness gently fade away, leaving a crisp and refreshing impression.
Texture
Rum lovers all over the world describe Bacardi’s taste as easy and plain-sailing. As the gold or pale rum goes down your throat, you will experience a complex savor that burns down your throat. On the other hand, Captain Morgan has a distinct vanilla savor that the nose and tongue can easily detect.
Read: Bacardi Gold vs Superior
Alcohol Content
Captain Morgan Original Spiced beverage is one of the favored rums worldwide because of its straightforward taste. It is 70% proof with 35% alcohol. It is high proofed, but this rum fits those with a sophisticated palate. It is tasty, smooth, and strong.
On the other hand, Bacardi has higher proof, at 75.5% US proof with an alcohol content of 37.5%. It has a stronger kick making it best in mixed cocktails.
Price & Value
The two serve almost the same following as these brands are both flavored. However, Captain Morgan has varieties that belong permanently to the top shelf and are sought after all over the world.
Price-wise, its average cost is around $25, and the cost per shot is roughly $1.58. On the other hand, Bacardi retails at around $14 while its shot is around $.83.
Awards & Recognition
Bacardi stands by its four core values, trust, caring, passion and excellence. And with these values, they were awarded 550 recognitions for their innovation, taste, and quality. Their most recent winning is the 2010 Rum XP tasting competition and other recognitions from San Francisco World Spirits Competitions.
On the other hand, Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum has recognition, such as bronzes for the 2004 and 2005 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Read: Captain Morgan & Sailor Jerry Full Comparison
What To Mix
Since rum goes well with fruit flavors, you can mix these two spirits with any liquor. A very popular choice is Coca-Cola. Rum can easily get you drunk if you mix it with a Diet cola since it intensifies the alcohol present. Mixing rum with Sprite, cola, or any soda (1) would also give you a refreshing and smooth, lemon-lime flavor.
FAQs
Is Captain Morgan owned by Bacardi?
No, Captain Morgan Original Spiced beverage is not Bacardi-owned. It is owned by Diageo, which was established in 1944.
Which came first, Captain Morgan or Bacardi?
Bacardi came first since it was established in 1862. It is the best rum for individuals who want flavor and strong alcohol but at a lower price. Captain Morgan was not introduced to the public until 1944.
What is the difference between Jack Daniels and Evan Williams?
The main differences lie in their origin and flavor profiles. Jack Daniels is a Tennessee whiskey known for its smoothness due to charcoal mellowing. Evan Williams is a Kentucky straight bourbon with a more robust flavor, reflecting differences in production methods and regional characteristics.
Is Evan Williams whiskey good?
Yes, Evan Williams is generally considered a good-quality whiskey. It offers a balance of flavor and affordability, making it a popular choice among bourbon enthusiasts.
Which whisky is better than Jack Daniels?
Preferences vary, but some might argue that certain premium or single malt whiskies are considered better than Jack Daniels in terms of complexity and depth of flavor.
Is Jack Daniel’s a top shelf whiskey?
Jack Daniel’s is not typically classified as a top-shelf whiskey. While it is a well-known brand, top-shelf usually refers to higher-end, more premium whiskies.
Is Evan Williams similar to Jack?
While both are whiskeys, Evan Williams and Jack Daniels have distinct characteristics. Evan Williams is a Kentucky bourbon with a bolder flavor, while Jack Daniels is a Tennessee whiskey known for its smoothness.
Is Evan Williams owned by Jack Daniels?
No, Evan Williams is not owned by Jack Daniels. Evan Williams is produced by Heaven Hill Brands, while Jack Daniels is produced by the Brown-Forman Corporation.
Where does Evan Williams rank in bourbon?
Evan Williams is well-regarded in the bourbon category, offering a good balance of quality and affordability. While not considered a top-shelf bourbon, it holds a respectable place in the market.
Is Evan Williams cheap whiskey?
Evan Williams is often considered an affordable or budget-friendly whiskey, providing good value for its quality.
Is Evan Williams real whiskey?
Yes, Evan Williams is real whiskey. It is a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, adhering to the standards and regulations set for bourbon production.
What kind of whiskey is Evan Williams?
Evan Williams is a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey. It is crafted in Kentucky and follows the traditional bourbon-making process, including aging in new charred oak barrels.
In Summary
The comparison between Bacardi and Captain Morgan’s spirit will always be left on the drinker’s preference. Those with a picky palate will not have a hard time with the two spirits. Both are aged exactly how the best rums are made globally, but each has its unique process and mixtures.
Captain Morgan Original Spiced mixed drinks get their unique taste and complex flavor from vanilla, allspice, and other spices. Bacardi excels from other world-famous liquors because of its savor, but this time its cinnamon and coconut overpower the strong presence of alcohol.
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