Kraken Black Spiced Rum arrived on the market in 2010 and swiftly became a phenomenon. Named after the legendary sea monster and housed in a distinctive Victorian-apothecary-style bottle, it tapped into a visual aesthetic that resonated with a generation of drinkers who wanted their spirits to look as good on Instagram as they tasted in the glass. But beneath the marketing lies a genuinely interesting spiced rum.
The base spirit is a blend of Trinidad and Tobago rums aged for one to two years in oak barrels, to which a proprietary mix of spices is added. The rum is then coloured with caramel to achieve its signature jet-black appearance. At 40% ABV, it is bottled at a respectable strength that gives the spices room to express themselves without being overwhelmed by alcohol heat.
On the Nose
The nose is dominated by warm baking spices — cinnamon, clove, and ginger lead, with vanilla and caramel providing sweetness. There is a distinct coffee note, almost espresso-like, along with dark chocolate and a hint of molasses. Beneath the spices, the rum base provides a subtle tropical fruit character, though it is firmly in supporting role. The overall impression is of a spiced Christmas cake in liquid form.
The Palate
On the palate, Kraken delivers bold, sweet flavours with plenty of spice. The cinnamon and clove are immediately present, joined by vanilla, caramel, and a strong coffee note. There is brown sugar and molasses sweetness, along with dark chocolate and a hint of allspice. The mouthfeel is medium-bodied and smooth, with the caramel colouring contributing a slight syrupy quality. The ginger provides a pleasant warmth that builds gradually through the mid-palate.
The Finish
The finish is medium in length, with lingering cinnamon, coffee, and a pleasant spicy warmth. The vanilla and caramel persist, gradually fading into a gentle molasses sweetness. It is a straightforward, satisfying finish that invites mixing.
Kraken is at its best in a simple serve with cola, where the spices complement the mixer's own flavour profile beautifully. It also works well in a Dark 'n Stormy variation, where the ginger beer amplifies the rum's own ginger notes. This is not a rum for purists, but for what it sets out to be — an accessible, flavourful spiced rum — it succeeds admirably.
