Dark 'n' Stormy
A highball cocktail from Bermuda, made with Gosling's Black Seal Rum and ginger beer. It is one of the few cocktails protected by a registered trademark.
11%
ABV
190
Calories
Highball
Glass
Flavor Profile
Flavor Journey
History & Heritage
“The Dark 'n' Stormy originated in Bermuda after World War I. It was created by sailors at the Royal Naval Officers' Club, who mixed the local Gosling's Black Seal Rum with their ginger beer. The name is said to have come from a sailor who remarked that the drink was 'the color of a cloud only a fool or a dead man would sail under.'”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Fill a highball glass to the top with ice.
Pour the chilled ginger beer over the ice.
Slowly pour the Gosling's Black Seal Rum over the back of a bar spoon to create a distinct layered effect.
Garnish with a fresh lime wedge.
Glassware
Served in a highball glass
Garnish
A fresh lime wedge on the rim of the glass
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use a high-quality, spicy ginger beer for the best flavor.
Pour the rum slowly over the back of a spoon to create the signature layered look.
The lime should be squeezed into the drink by the consumer according to their personal preference.
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Dark 'n' Stormy.
Other Variations
The Addition of Lime Juice
Many modern recipes call for adding 1/2 oz of fresh lime juice to the glass with the ginger beer for a more integrated and consistently tart drink.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Dark and Stormy
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Dark ‘n’ Stormier
A bolder take on the Bermuda classic—extra dark rum with spicy ginger beer and fresh lime over ice.
Kentucky Mule
Bourbon buck—bourbon, lime, and spicy ginger beer over ice in a frosty copper mug.