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The Caribbean has long set the blueprint for music, food, and culture that resonate worldwide, and rum is no exception. Born in the islands, this spirit carries the essence of the Caribbean in every pour. While debates over which island produces the “best” rum are endless, we can all agree that every sip captures the richness of the region.
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This National Rum Month, we’re raising a glass to Caribbean-owned brands that are redefining the spirit, perfect for summer nights and fall gatherings.

Photo Credit: Ten to One Instagram


Ten to One

Ten to One Rum, a 100% additive-free spirit, was founded by entrepreneur Marc Farrell, who was born and raised in Tobago. His mission was to craft a contemporary, elevated rum blend that redefines the consumer’s experience of the spirit. With her new album CiCi out, co-owner Ciara also demonstrates that her influence extends far beyond the stage and into the glass.

The rum’s name comes from the phrase “one from ten leaves zero,” spoken by Trinidad and Tobago’s first Prime Minister. He said this while reflecting on the West Indies Federation, a short-lived union of ten Caribbean nations, as a reminder that the Caribbean is stronger when united than when divided. The blend of rums reflects this pan-Caribbean spirit, combining spirits from Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and the Dominican Republic.

The attention to detail is also evident in the brand’s initials. Ten to One shares the same initials as Trinidad and Tobago, TTO, a subtle shoutout to Farrell’s home country woven into the label.

Saint Sauveur 1972

Saint Sauveur 1972 is a Haitian-American rum launched this past May. The rum features smooth notes of toasted coconut, warm vanilla, golden caramel, and a touch of sweetness from white cane sugar.

The rum was founded by Grammy-nominated artist, entrepreneur, and humanitarian Melky Jean. Melky, the younger sister of Wyclef Jean, has collaborated with legends such as Beyoncé, Shakira, and Patti LaBelle, continuing the family’s legacy of creativity and Haitian pride.

Saint Sauveur 1972 lives up to its tagline, “Taste the heritage, celebrate the spirit,” through its rich history. The rum is named after the Saint Sauveur, the first Haitian refugee ship recorded to reach Florida. The ship also inspired the bottle’s design, which echoes its shape and makes for a perfect addition to your home decor once you finish the bottle.


Equiano Rum

Equiano Rum is the world’s first African-Caribbean rum, made from a distinctive blend of spirits from Barbados’s Foursquare Distillery and Grays Distillery in Mauritius. Named after Nigerian-born abolitionist Olaudah Equiano, a former slave who bought his freedom, the rum carries a mission of liberation and empowerment.

The brand was founded by UK-born, Jamaican global rum ambassador Ian Burrell and brand strategist Aisha Dadral, who began her career in music with Island Records and Mercury/Def Jam. Together with their partner Amanda, they bring expertise in rum and cultural storytelling to craft a spirit rooted in quality, heritage, and purpose.
Equiano’s mission extends beyond the bottle: the company donates 5 percent of profits, plus $2 from every bottle sold on its website, to the Equiano Rum Co. Foundation Grant, supporting Anti-Slavery International in its fight to end modern slavery worldwide.

From the Caribbean to the world, these brands are keeping rum rooted in its heritage. Every pour carries a story of resilience, culture, and the enduring spirit of the islands.