What is the primary spirit used in a Hurricane cocktail?

In a Hurricane cocktail, the primary spirit is light rum. This cocktail originated in New Orleans and is known for its fruity, sweet flavor profile, which complements the rum base. Light rum provides the necessary alcohol content and helps to balance the sweetness of the fruit juices and other ingredients typically used in the drink.

While gold rum, pineapple juice, and grenadine play roles in the overall flavor profile of the cocktail, they do not serve as the base spirit. Gold rum often has a richer flavor and is used in other drinks, while pineapple juice adds sweetness and acidity, and grenadine contributes color and additional sweetness. However, it's the light rum that anchors the cocktail, providing a smooth and clean spirit foundation that allows the other flavors to shine. Understanding the role of each ingredient helps in both making and appreciating the complexities of a well-crafted Hurricane cocktail.