Old Vatted Demerara Rum

Old Vatted Demerara (OVD) Rum is one of those bottles that rewards discovery — a genuine classic of the dark rum world that’s been quietly produced for well over a century. OVD is a blended Demerara rum, meaning it originates from the Demerara region of Guyana on the north coast of South America, where rum has been produced since the 17th century using the rich, full-bodied molasses from local sugar cane.

The “vatted” in the name refers to the traditional practice of blending rums of different ages and sometimes different distillation methods in large vats — a technique that produces a consistent, rounded house style. Demerara rums are known for their characteristic richness: dark treacle, burnt sugar, dried fruit, and a warming, almost smoky depth that sets them apart from lighter Caribbean styles. OVD is no exception. At around 40% ABV, it’s approachable and deeply flavourful.

On the nose, OVD delivers rich molasses, toffee, and dark dried fruit. The palate follows with burnt caramel, raisin, a hint of wood smoke, and a long, warming finish. It’s an ideal rum for drinking in winter — neat, over ice, or in a dark and stormy with fiery ginger beer. It also makes an outstanding ingredient in cooking: Christmas cake, rum truffles, and sticky toffee pudding all benefit enormously from a generous splash. A bottle that deserves far more recognition than it gets.