Kraken Rum has carved out a unique space for itself in the crowded spirits market by focusing on more than just taste; it offers an entire experience rooted in mythology and dark mystery. While other rums rely on traditional Caribbean imagery, Kraken leans into a far more ominous and intriguing narrative. Its most defining features are its striking visual presentation, robust flavor, and compelling backstory, all of which contribute to its distinct identity and appeal among consumers and mixologists alike.
The Flavor Profile: A Deep Dive into Spices
At the heart of Kraken's appeal is its uniquely sweet and spicy flavor. The rum is a blend of spirits distilled in Trinidad and Tobago, made from molasses sourced from the Virgin Islands. After a brief aging period of 12 to 24 months in oak barrels, the rum is infused with a proprietary blend of exotic spices. While the full list of spices is a secret, key components have been identified by tasters and include:
- Vanilla
- Cinnamon
- Clove
- Ginger
- Nutmeg
- Coffee
These additions create a complex, multi-layered profile. The sweetness of molasses and caramel is balanced by a warming spice kick, with notes of vanilla and coffee often taking center stage. Some versions of Kraken, particularly the 94-proof (47% ABV) variant, offer a more potent and robust flavor that stands up well in cocktails. The result is a profile that is both approachable for newcomers and interesting enough for seasoned spiced rum drinkers.
The Unmistakable Look: Bottle and Color
The most immediate and unforgettable aspect of Kraken is its visual identity. The brand's signature is its Victorian-style bottle, a replica of flagons used during old-world seafaring days. The two circular handles, or 'ears,' on the bottle were traditionally designed to help sailors secure bottles during turbulent sea voyages. This historical touch lends an air of authenticity to the mythical brand lore. Complementing the bottle's design is its strikingly black, opaque color. This ink-like darkness, meant to evoke the ink from its mythical namesake, is a result of added caramel coloring, a common practice in the industry. This deep hue not only looks mysterious on the shelf but also gives cocktails a unique, brooding visual quality.
The Legend of the Beast
Kraken's branding is built upon a compelling, fictional legend. According to the brand's lore, a merchant ship carrying a massive amount of black spiced rum was attacked and dragged to the depths of the ocean by the mythical sea monster, The Kraken. All barrels were destroyed except for one, which resurfaced, stained black by the beast's ink. This barrel contained a rum of unparalleled darkness and flavor, which was subsequently named in tribute to the monster. This narrative, combined with the powerful sea monster imagery on the label, has helped Kraken cultivate a distinct, memorable brand identity that appeals to a sense of adventure and mystery.
Kraken Rum vs. Other Spiced Rums
To understand what makes Kraken special, it helps to compare it to other popular spiced rums. The following table contrasts Kraken with two well-known competitors.
| Feature | Kraken Black Spiced Rum | Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum | Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Deep, opaque black color, ink-like | Golden amber | Warm amber |
| Standard ABV | 40% (80 Proof) to 47% (94 Proof) | 35% (70 Proof) | 46% (92 Proof) |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet molasses, vanilla, coffee, cinnamon, gingerbread, clove | Vanilla, brown sugar, caramel, oak notes | Vanilla, cinnamon, clove, ginger, hint of burnt butter |
| Packaging | Distinctive Victorian-style flagon with handles | Classic bottle with a pirate captain illustration | Retro label featuring tattoo artist Norman 'Sailor Jerry' Collins |
| Brand Story | Fictional tale of a sea monster's ink | Portrays a buccaneer captain, a historical figure | Honors a famous tattoo artist and Navy veteran |
| Best For | Bold, darker cocktails; rum and cola | Classic spiced rum cocktails, mixing with soda | Cocktails requiring a drier, bolder spice profile |
How to Enjoy Kraken Rum
Kraken's bold flavor profile makes it a versatile spirit for both simple mixed drinks and more complex cocktails. Here are some popular serving suggestions:
- The Perfect Storm: A classic and refreshing mix of Kraken rum and ginger beer over ice, with a squeeze of lime. The fiery ginger contrasts nicely with the rum's sweetness.
- Rum and Cola: The rich, dark character of Kraken elevates the classic rum and cola, adding depth and spice.
- Kraken's Basil Mirage: A more adventurous cocktail featuring Kraken, green chartreuse, lemon juice, mint syrup, and a variety of bitters, topped with ginger beer.
- Neat or on the Rocks: For purists, Kraken can be enjoyed straight or with a few ice cubes, allowing its robust spice and molasses flavors to shine without being masked.
- Cocktail Base: The potent flavor and proof of Kraken make it an excellent, bold base for a wide range of cocktails that require a strong spiced rum.
Conclusion: The Special Qualities Summarized
What is special about Kraken Rum boils down to its strategic and successful blend of product and branding. The exceptionally dark color, delivered in an iconic Victorian-style bottle, immediately sets it apart visually. The rich and complex flavor profile, with prominent notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and coffee, provides a memorable drinking experience. This is all amplified by the compelling, modern mythological narrative of the beast from the depths that gives the rum its name. While some may find the added coloring and flavorings less 'pure' than traditional rums, Kraken's consistency, bold taste, and unique identity make it a standout and versatile choice for many consumers and cocktail creators. Ultimately, Kraken Rum is a masterclass in brand-building, turning a simple spiced rum into a legendary spirit that is far more than the sum of its parts. Discover more on the official site The Horrid Tale | Kraken Rum.
