Rum trends to watch out for in 2025

2025: An exciting year for Rum

New origins. New blends. New tastes. The global Rum industry is constantly evolving – and constantly expanding. According to IWSR , total value is projected to grow by 5.2% from 2024- 2028.

As brands and consumers increasingly focus on quality, Rum is being taken more seriously than ever. These days, it is as much about sipping and savouring as it is mixing and shaking. And in light of this growing worldwide interest, 2025 promises to bring exciting new developments. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or new to the drink, let’s take a look at the Rum trends we expect to see in 2025.

Trend #1: The growing demand for aged and craft Rums

First, we expect 2025 to see demand for premium, craft, and aged Rums grow sharply as adventurous Millennials continue to look beyond the everyday. With high disposable incomes as well as open minds, they tend to set their sights on higher quality options.

Then let's not forget that authenticity has become a buzzword in recent times - and that applies as much to the world of Rum as to any other. The popularity of artisan products will be reflected in strong demand for high-quality, small-batch craft Rums with more complex flavour profiles. The figures speak for themselves. According to IWSR, the premium Rum market expanded by 7% between 2018-2023 and the super-premium-and-above segment by 10%. IWSR anticipates a 6% annual rate in the super-premium category until 2028.

Trend #2: The rise of ready-to-drink Rum products

The rise of ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails has been propelled by a growing demand for convenience. Until now, RTDs have typically been enjoyed at home or during social gatherings. But looking ahead we also think you’ll start seeing more and more consumers enjoying them in on-trade settings such as bars, pubs, and clubs.

No surprise then that RTD volumes are projected to grow by 12% between 2022 and 2027, by when the category will be worth a stunning $40 billion across ten key markets. Rum’s versatility makes it an ideal alternative to tequila and vodka as the base for premium RTD offerings. As a result, 2025 should see a significant growth in ready-to-drink Rum cocktails.

Trend #3: The popularity of flavoured and spiced Rums

Spiced Rum has a rich history – and a big future. Infused with a variety of fruits and spices such as cinnamon, star anise, and cherries, Spiced Rum originated in the Caribbean during the 16th century, when producers started to use flavourings to distract from the harsh taste of low-quality alcohol. How things have changed.

Today, spices are seen to elevate the flavour and aroma of the spirit and drinkers are taking note. Valued at around $7 billion in 2024, the global Spiced Rum market is projected to leap to $9.67 billion by 2030, representing a growth of 4.5% CAGR as higher quality Rums and new spices come into the equation.

This growth is fuelled by rising consumer interest in premium alcoholic beverages, particularly among younger consumers. Research by CGA  shows that adults aged 18-34 accounts for almost half the market. After all, this cocktail-friendly segment is particularly open to exploring new options, leaving convention behind, and experimenting with new and original choices. And whether that’s an innovative Rum flavour or adding a new dimension to Rum cocktails, the vibrant and adventurous appeal of Spiced Rum is ideal.

Trend #4: The perception of Rum as a sipping spirit

Different barrel types. Myriad flavour profiles. From light and laid back to deep and densely complex. When it comes to sipping spirits, consumers are now choosing Rum for a reason.  Offering a world of diversity and complexity, Rum continues to push the boundaries of tastes and techniques as distillers produce some of the most creative and innovative drinks available today. As such, it is perfectly placed to take advantage of the growing interest in premium aged spirits.

So Rum means far more than mixing in mojitos. It is increasingly recognised as a refined spirit to savour – and one that can more than hold its own against single-malt whisky and cognac when it comes to the premium sipping experience. And this is reflected in the fast growth of the Sipping Rum market, which now accounts for almost 20% of Rum consumption.

Trend #5: Rum production is becoming more sustainable and ethical

Sustainability is high on the agenda for consumers worldwide. Beyond high quality and great taste, they are seeking out eco-friendly spirits that also focus on provenance, heritage, and a commitment to minimising their impact on the environment.

No surprise, then, that producers and bottlers are responding with smarter and more sustainable practices. Think recycled and biodegradable bottles, labels, and caps; fair trade initiatives; even minimalist packaging with all essential information provided via QR codes.

2025 will see these efforts to cut waste and reduce carbon footprints result in ever smarter practices such as stainable sugar cane, energy-efficient distillation, and social responsibility. Paying fair wages to all workers involved promotes economic stability and improves quality of life. At the same time, safety standards, proper training and all the necessary tools protect their health and wellbeing.

And let’s not forget Bonsucro – a global platform for sustainable sugarcane. By promoting responsible sourcing and production, Bonsucro aims to reduce the negative impacts of sugarcane farming, such as deforestation, biodiversity loss, and worker exploitation. E&A Scheer is proud to have gained Bonsucro Chain of Custody certification. Interested in finding out what this involves? You can read more about our Bonsucro membership here.

Trend #6: The global expansion of Rum production

Think Rum and all the usual suspects immediately come to mind: think the Caribbean or Central and South America. In reality, Rum is made in dozens of countries globally – and that number is set to increase over the next 12 months and beyond as new producers in more unexpected regions add to the diversity of Rum styles and flavours on offer.

Take Britain, for example, a nation of Rum drinkers from those early Royal Navy days. But distillers, not so much. Even so, a new generation of distilleries are producing some serious contenders, with many producers following a model inspired by the more traditional gin production process.

On the other side of the world, Australia has also seen a proliferation in the number of Rum brands. One interesting aspect here is the fact that many are not yet permitted to label their products as Rum. It's nothing to do with quality, but rather labelling laws that insist that a product must contain Rum at least two years old.

India, Vietnam, and the Philippines have also experienced a Rum renaissance in the last few years, with many local products receiving critical acclaim.

And yes, sure, the US is also getting in on the act. We all know that Rum’s historic heartland is the West Indies, but did you know that Rum distilling was also a part of the early North American economy? And now, after a break of two centuries, American Rum is back on the menu.

The future of the Rum market

The Rum market has enjoyed significant expansion over the last few years, especially among Millennials. Depending on where you get your figures, it was worth around $14 billion in 2024 and, as we have already seen, is expected to see an annual growth of 5.2% until 2028.

And so, in spite of challenges such as ever-tighter regulations and taxation policies, the future of Rum looks brighter, more diverse, and more exciting than ever with evolving consumer preferences driving an explosion in premium, authentic, and innovative Rum offerings.

Frequently asked questions

What are the key Rum trends for 2025?

Key trends include the rise of premium and craft Rums; the growing popularity of flavoured and spiced varieties; and the recognition of Rum as a sophisticated sipping spirit. Sustainability and ethical production are also shaping the market, alongside innovative Rum cocktails and the global expansion of Rum production beyond traditional regions.

Why is Rum becoming popular as a sipping spirit?

Rum is gaining popularity as a sipping spirit due to its evolving reputation and the wide availability of premium, aged varieties. Historically associated with cocktails, Rum is now recognised for its rich, complex flavour profiles that make the drink a serious rival to single-malt whiskey and cognac.