First Impressions
Ruta Maya Blanco is made from Fairtrade-certified molasses from Belize Sugar Industries, naturally fermented and distilled using a column still. At 38%, it sits on the lighter end of the spectrum, positioning itself as a cocktail rum with ethical credentials.
Tasting
The nose is light and fresh. Citrus leads with fresh sugarcane and light herbs providing support. Clean mineral notes add interest, and there's a subtle floral quality. It's an undemanding nose that signals a mixer rather than a sipper.
The palate is light and citrus-forward. Lemon zest provides the main flavour note, with sugarcane sweetness and gentle herbs adding depth. The character is clean and refreshing — exactly what you want in a daiquiri base.
The finish is short and clean with citrus and sugarcane.
The Bottom Line
At £29.50, Ruta Maya Blanco is a perfectly serviceable white rum with Fairtrade credentials. It won't set the world alight as a sipper, but it makes a clean, citrusy daiquiri and supports the Belizean sugarcane industry responsibly. Fair value for an ethical choice.
