The Intoxicologist

Seagram’s usually brings to mind Seagram’s 7 or Gin, but this summer Seagram’s Brazilian Rum launched on the American market for a more spirited approach to tropical summer cocktails.  There will continue to be skeptics to Seagram’s entering the field of rum and whether this spirit will match up with other Brazilian Rum brands, but one must be fair and sample it in the spirit in which it was designed; affordability within the domain of taste.

For diehard serious Brazilian Rum consumers, Oronoco Rum definitely comes to mind as the forerunner in supreme flavor.  However the rich flavor and price places pressure on the home bartender to create the perfect cocktail recipe with the first attempt or sip Oronoco Rum neat rather than ‘waste’ the spirit by risking cocktail failure.  This is where the beauty of Seagram’s Brazilian Rum comes into play.

Seagram’s did not create sipping rum for all intent and purposes.  They did create a perfectly respectable mixing rum.  Summer and rum always bring to mind the classic Daiquiri recipe which works beautifully for test sampling.  Ironically enough the standard Caipirinha contains the exact same measurements in sugar and rum with a variable in fresh lime. 

Caipirinha – Brazilian Rum Style

1 Tablespoon Simple Syrup

1 Lime – Muddled

2 ounces Seagram’s Brazilian Rum

Cut ends off a fresh lime.  Cut into six pieces.  Place lime and simple syrup in a mixing glass.  Muddle to release juice and essential oil.  Add Seagram’s Brazilian Rum and ice.  Shake to chill.  Pour into a large rocks glass or strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice and garnish with a fresh lime slice. 

This take on the classic Caipirinha renders a smooth, pleasantly sweet rather than sickly syrupy drink.  Seagram’s Brazilian Rum proves its mixability quality.  However, this spirit will never be confused with Cachaca in a traditional Caipirinha.  Seagram’s gives an edgy flavor rather than buttery tone to the Caipirinha.  It’s a nice change to mix things up a bit.  

The classic Daiquiri recipe did not fare as well using the Seagram’s Brazilian Rum.  Although the same fresh ingredients were used, muddling made an extreme difference where flavor is concerned.  This just goes to show that time and effort render better results. 

Just as every recipe has its time, place and function, spirits do as well.  While there are higher quality, richer, more flavorful and yes, much pricier Brazilian rums on the market, Seagram’s Brazilian Rum rings up at a mere $12 a bottle.  That is a drop in the bucket price, perfect pour for a party or group gathering.  The flavor speaks something a little different than regular rum, so it’s fun, unique, giving tropical tone to the feel of the cocktail and a little something out of the ordinary for guests without breaking the bank.

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Copyright 2009 Cheri Loughlin – The Intoxicologist – All Rights Reserved