Millions of connoisseurs worldwide love them. They are often the first point of contact with rum and open doors to a new world.
- The category: Sweet door openers – rum-based spirits (sweetened or flavored) that delight millions.
- The mission: Uncomplicated enjoyment and the perfect introduction to the world of sugar cane.
- The winner: Dos Maderas 5+5 PX wins with its unique combination of Caribbean rum and Spanish sherry finish.
- Diversity: From Peru to Jamaica, these winners show how diverse sweet rum can be.
According to EU regulations, “spirit drinks” are often rum-based spirits that have either been sweetened (more than 20g of sugar per liter) or refined with spices (spiced rum). This category is colorful, creative, and incredibly diverse. From the Philippines to South America, these drinks don't claim to convert dry purists—they just want to taste damn good. They invite you to enjoy them without fuss, whether neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail.
The best spirit drinks 2025
Here are the top 10 seducers that won the hearts (and palates) of the RumX community in 2025.
They have seduced thousands of you and opened doors to new worlds of pleasure – here, the three sweet seducers of the year shine brightly:
🥇 1ST PLACE: Dos Maderas 5+5 PX
RX6 | Median: 7.5 / 10 | Reviews: 71 Origin: Caribbean & Spain | Manufacturer: Bodegas Williams & Humbert
The story behind the rum “Dos Maderas” means “two woods” – and the name says it all. This rum begins its journey in the Caribbean (Barbados and Guyana), where it is aged for 5 years. But the finale takes place in Andalusia (Spain). There it is stored for another 5 years, including in barrels that previously contained the extremely sweet and thick Pedro Ximenez (PX) sherry. The result is a marriage of Caribbean power and Spanish charm.
What the community says “The king of sweet charm.” The community often celebrates it as the more mature, complex alternative to hyped brands like Don Papa. It is the highest-rated sweet rum of the year at RumX – and rightly so.
Tasting Notes A liquid dessert. Juicy, caramelized raisins dominate, accompanied by mild vanilla, figs, and dried stone fruit. It is incredibly smooth, completely coats the mouth, and leaves a hint of sherry.
🥈 SECOND PLACE: Cartavio XO
RX83 | Median: 7.5 / 10 | Reviews: 43 Origin: Peru | Manufacturer: Cartavio Rum Company
The story behind the rum Even the bottle makes a statement: a heavy, elegant decanter that immediately catches the eye in any bar. But the contents are just as impressive. Cartavio XO from Peru is produced using the elaborate solera process, in which young and old distillates (up to 18 years old) are constantly blended to ensure consistent quality. It is proof that South American rums also play in the top league.
What the community says RumX users praise it as the perfect “next step.” If you like sweet rums but are looking for a little more complexity and spice, this is the one for you. An insider tip from the reviews: “With Cartavio XO, every Old Fashioned becomes a Spanish aristocrat!”
Tasting Notes Dark chocolate meets walnut and maple syrup. This is accompanied by classic notes of caramel and fine spices. At 40% alcohol, it is mild, but the oak barrel aging gives it enough character to keep it from becoming boring.
🥉 3rd PLACE: Maison Ferrand Canerock
RX12008 | Median: 7.4 / 10 | Reviews: 48 Origin: Jamaica | Manufacturer: Maison Ferrand
The story behind the rum When Maison Ferrand (the makers of Planteray, formerly Plantation) make a spiced rum, they do it right. The base is authentic, characterful rum from Jamaica (Clarendon & Long Pond). This is infused with natural spices such as vanilla, ginger, and coconut. The highlight: part of the blend is aged in sherry barrels. This is not your run-of-the-mill supermarket spiced rum, this is craftsmanship.
What the community says “More flavors than an oriental spice market!” Canerock is celebrated because it doesn't hide the typical “Jamaican funk,” but skillfully weaves it with the spices.
Tasting Notes A wild ride: coffee, dark chocolate, and coconut on the nose. Winter spices, toffee, and a slight spiciness from ginger explode on the palate. Sweet, yes—but with rough edges.
The grand finale: Who rules the world?
We have catered to the experts, the nerds, the treasure hunters, and the sweet tooths. But one question remains: Which rum was actually drunk the most in 2025? Tomorrow, we will crown the true king of the rum scene. It's not about points, it's about popularity.
Your starting point?
Let's be honest: almost all of us began our rum journey with a sweet or spiced variety. And even today, there are days when just such a “soul soother” is simply good for the soul. Which bottle was your personal “door opener” to the world of rum back then? And is one of our winners still standing on your shelf today as a “guilty pleasure”?
Share your stories (and sweet secrets) with us in the comments!
