That same variety as well as a pleasing sweetness means rum is one of the easier spirits to pair with food. “Pairing food with spirits is always a challenge,” says Lobo-Navia, but rum is an easier match. Lighter rums go with citrusy, lighter dishes; he advises. Darker rums go well with chocolate and desserts in general.

Rum pairs well with the Caribbean-style food served at Rum Bar in Philadelphia. Kanter is always ready with a recommendation for sipping rums that pair well with specific dishes. “I love to pair Jerk Wings with a Daiquiri,” he enthuses. “The drink cools off the hot spices.” A demo of how well that combo works is available on Wednesdays, when Rum Bar runs a promotion of half-priced $5 Daiquiris and $1 Jerk Wings.