As a cocktail enthusiast, I’ve always had a soft spot for spiced rum, and Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum has been a staple in my drinks cabinet for years. Well, fellow rum lovers, I have some exciting news: America’s No. 1 selling spiced rum just got better. Captain Morgan has announced an upgrade to their iconic Original Spiced Rum, now featuring real Madagascar vanilla. And that’s not all; the new bottle boasts a bold color palette with expressive gold brushstrokes that reflect the smoothness and spice we’ve come to love.

Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum is renowned for its mixability and sippability, and this leveled-up liquid promises an even more delightful experience. The perfect blend of Caribbean rum, Madagascar vanilla, natural flavors, and spices includes notes of cinnamon, clove, dried fruit, caramelized sugar, and honey, making it the ideal base for any cocktail with the signature spiced kick.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Captain Morgan is calling on all “badtenders” to spice it up with their Battle of the Badtenders contest. Teaming up with comedian and actor Tone Bell and influencer, host, and author Drew Afualo, Captain Morgan aims to prove that even those with zero mixology experience can create delicious, crowd-pleasing cocktails—from tropical Piña Coladas and minty mojitos to the classic cola with Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum.

Tone Bell & Drew Afualo collaborate with Captain Morgan

Captain Morgan Badtender Challenge

If you consider yourself a “badtender” and are up for the challenge, you have until May 3 to share your Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum cocktail creation on Instagram or Twitter. Just remember to include #BadtenderWorthyContest, and tag and follow @CaptainMorganUSA on Instagram or @CaptainMorganUS on Twitter. Three finalists will compete at the Captain Morgan Battle of the Badtenders in New York City on May 17, hosted by Bell and Afualo. The winner will receive $10,000 and the Ultimate “Badtender” title, proving that with Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum, anyone can be a cocktail aficionado.

Ready to try the upgraded Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum for yourself? It’s now available in a 750mL bottle with a 30% ABV at a suggested retail price of $15.99. I, for one, can’t wait to whip up some new and improved cocktails with this revamped spiced rum. Cheers to endless cocktail possibilities!