Dark'n'Stormy

Dark'n'Stormy

Alessandro Scire Calabrisotto

The Dark 'n' Stormy is a classic highball cocktail that perfectly blends the rich, spicy notes of dark rum with the bright, zesty kick of ginger beer. Often garnished with a lime wedge, this drink is simple yet deeply flavorful, offering a balance of warmth and refreshment. A favorite among sailors and cocktail enthusiasts alike, the Dark 'n' Stormy is a go-to for those who enjoy bold, well-balanced drinks.

History of the Dark 'n' Stormy Cocktail

The Dark 'n' Stormy has a rich maritime history that dates back to the mid-19th century. It was created in Bermuda, the home of Gosling’s Rum, which remains the only officially recognized rum for this cocktail. The drink’s origins are closely tied to the British Royal Navy, which had been producing ginger beer as a remedy for seasickness. When British sailors stationed in Bermuda began mixing their ginger beer with Gosling’s Black Seal Rum, the Dark 'n' Stormy was born.

Legend has it that the name “Dark 'n' Stormy” was coined when a British sailor, observing the drink’s deep, dark rum floating over the bright ginger beer, remarked that it looked like “the color of a cloud only a fool or a dead man would sail under.”

Today, the Dark 'n' Stormy is one of the few trademarked cocktails in the world. Gosling’s Rum holds the official trademark, meaning that for a drink to be called a Dark 'n' Stormy, it must be made with Gosling’s Black Seal Rum. This legal protection ensures that the cocktail maintains its original character and quality.

Recipe: How to Make a Classic Dark 'n' Stormy

The Dark 'n' Stormy is easy to make and delivers a perfectly balanced combination of spice, citrus, and deep rum flavors.

Ingredients:

  • 60 ml (2 oz) Gosling’s Black Seal Rum

  • 120 ml (4 oz) Ginger Beer (preferably spicy and strong)

  • 15 ml (0.5 oz) Fresh Lime Juice (optional, but recommended)

  • Garnish: Lime Wedge

Instructions:

  1. Fill the Glass: Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.

  2. Add Ginger Beer: Pour the ginger beer first to maintain the proper layering effect.

  3. Float the Rum: Gently pour the Gosling’s Black Seal Rum over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect.

  4. Garnish & Serve: Add a lime wedge for extra brightness and serve without stirring.

Tips for Perfection:

  • Use a high-quality, spicy ginger beer like Fever-Tree or Barritt’s for the best kick.

  • Layer the rum on top for the signature “stormy” look before stirring.

  • While not in the original recipe, adding fresh lime juice enhances the cocktail’s brightness.

Additional Recommendations

Variations:

  • Light 'n' Breezy: Substitute dark rum with white rum for a lighter take.

  • Stormy Mule: Use ginger ale instead of ginger beer for a milder spice level.

  • Tropical Stormy: Add a splash of pineapple juice for a fruitier variation.

Pairings:

The Dark 'n' Stormy’s bold and spicy profile pairs well with Caribbean and island-inspired dishes. Try it with:

  • Jerk Chicken: The rum and ginger complement the dish’s smoky spice.

  • Grilled Pineapple: Enhances the caramelized sweetness.

  • Crispy Fish Tacos: The zesty lime and ginger beer cut through the richness of fried fish.

Presentation:

  • Serve in a highball glass for the classic look.

  • Use crushed ice if you prefer a more chilled and diluted drink.

  • Garnish with a lime wedge to add a fresh aroma and acidity.

Curiosity: A Fun Fact About the Dark 'n' Stormy

The Dark 'n' Stormy is one of the only trademarked cocktails, meaning that technically, if it’s not made with Gosling’s Black Seal Rum, it can’t legally be called a Dark 'n' Stormy. Bartenders often refer to similar drinks as a “Rum & Ginger” when using a different rum.

Sources


Back to blog