The year is 1860 and the place is Bermuda, where the Gosling family has developed an aged black rum, bottled in champagne bottles and sealed with black wax (hence the name Gosling’s Black Seal). Nearby the Royal Navy is brewing a ginger beer, either in an effort to deal with seasickness or as part of a movement towards reducing the amount of rum that sailors were consuming on a daily basis. Before long these two beverages crossed paths and the Dark and Stormy was born. It is said that a sailor gave it its name when he remarked that it was “the color of a cloud only a fool or a dead man would sail under.”

My own personal history with the Dark and Stormy began about 15 years ago while away for a long August weekend in Saint Michael’s, Maryland. A bartender in a crabhouse there recommended it to us, describing it as the perfect summertime drink that went along with water, docks, and blue claw crabs. He was absolutely right and it quickly became one of our favorites. Even now it remains one of our go to cocktails as soon as the weather turns warm. The Gosling’s Rum is a must because it’s the original choice, but if you must use another make sure it’s just as dark and rich. There are many ginger beers, ranging from having lots of bite to being fairly mild. I chose Fever Tree for my drink; it’s definitely on the milder side, which I prefer. Whether or not to use lime juice is also up for debate. Many people think the lime cuts the sweetness of the rum, and tempers the bite of the ginger. I agree, and I also think that adding citrus has the effect of brightening the drink in much the same way it does when it’s used in cooking. The 4 ounces of ginger beer and 2 ounces of rum are pretty standard, but the lime juice can vary from none at all on up to a ounce. Change it up and see which way you like it best!

Not only is this a built drink, but it is also a layered drink. You will add the lime juice first, then the ginger beer, and then finally you will gently pour the rum on top. It will sit there and give the effect of dark, looming storm clouds. Serve it with a straw so you can eventually stir it up and incorporate everything together.The Dark and Stormy

2 oz Gosling’s Black Seal Rum
4 oz good quality Ginger Beer
1/2 oz fresh lime juice
Lime peel or twist for garnish

Fill a Collins glass with ice. Add the lime juice first, then the ginger beer, and then gently pour the rum on top. Do not stir. Garnish with a lime peel or twist and serve with a straw. Enjoy!

Tomorrow we’ll get to know rum’s darker, deeper side with a recipe from Death & Co that features Appleton Estate Rare Blend 12-year aged rum, Oloroso sherry, Amaro Ramazzotti, and chocolate bitters! I’m excited!