Smith & Cross Strana 1 z 1

Smith & Cross is an iconic Jamaican rum that ranks among the most authentic expressions of the traditional “Navy Strength” style. Its roots trace back to the 18th century in London, where Smith & Cross operated as a trader of colonial distillates. The brand has built on this tradition, delivering a rum that is a direct homage to historical Jamaican rums.

The modern Smith & Cross brand was revived by Haus Alpenz and is now produced directly in Jamaica in collaboration with the legendary Hampden Estate Distillery, known for producing “high ester” rums with a rich and distinctive character.

Smith & Cross is made from molasses from Jamaican sugar cane. Distillation occurs in traditional copper pot stills, which are key to creating ester-rich rums. Aging is a combination of younger and older rums in bourbon barrels, taking place in the tropical conditions of Jamaica and partially in Europe. The rum is bottled without added sugar or caramel to maintain absolute authenticity. The alcohol content is 57% ABV, which is known as “Navy Strength” – the traditional strength of the British Navy, at which rum was tested by mixing with gunpowder: if the powder still ignited upon contact, the rum was strong enough.

Its flavor profile is explosive and complex. The aroma features bananas, pineapple, tropical fruits, fermentation notes, and caramelized sugar. The taste is robust, full-bodied, with typical ester notes, molasses, raisins, dried plums, and spicy pepper. The finish is long, warming, with an intense fruity-smoky trail. This rum showcases the true face of Jamaican style – wild, untamed, and unmistakable.

Smith & Cross is one of the most accessible “pure pot still” Jamaican rums and is a favorite among bartenders and rum connoisseurs alike. Due to its strength, it is often used in cocktails like Mai Tai or Daiquiri, where it can shine through flavors and add intense character. For many, it has become the benchmark rum for understanding the concept of Jamaican “funk,” also known as hogo, which refers to the pronounced ester aroma and flavor.

Smith & Cross thus connects London’s trading history with Jamaican distilling tradition. It is a rum for the bold, intense, ester-rich, and strong, perfectly representing the uniqueness of Jamaican rum.