How to Make a Dark and Stormy

This easy Dark and Stormy cocktail recipe will bring you straight to the Caribbean waters with one sip. A little rum, ginger beer and lime are all it takes.

The key here is using a dark rum and a great ginger beer. As always, it’s worth the effort to get the best ingredients. I love lime, but you can leave it out of you want, making this an even easier cocktail to make.

Where was the Dark and Stormy born

Invented on the island of Bermuda in 1806 by a member of the Gosling family, as the story goes, the recipe for the Dark and Stormy cocktail was born.

A Mr. Gosling went sailing to Virginia from England, but ended up in Bermuda. He created Gosling’s Rum. Some Brits invented ginger beer and they put it together with the rum.

One of these sailer’s thought his glass looked like “the color of a cloud only a fool or a dead man would sail under.”  Some one took that and called it the Dark ‘N Stormy.

Although technically trademarked by Goslings Rum, a Dark ‘N Stormy is made with Gosling’s Black Seal rum and Gosling’s Stormy ginger beer, but this fan favorite has been reinvented in all ports of call far and wide.

Ingredients for the Dark and Stormy

With these ingredients at hand, you’ll be ready to create a Dark and Stormy that’s both visually impressive and deliciously satisfying.

Dark Rum

Dark rum is the soul of the Dark and Stormy. Its deep, rich molasses flavor adds warmth and complexity to the drink, perfectly complementing the spicy ginger beer. If you are making the true Dark N Stormy, then you need Gosling’s Black Seal rum. Don’t ask how it’s made because the recipe is a family secret that has been passed down and is on a need to know basis!

The word “black” in the name also gives you no clues as it was named after the black sealing wax with which the cork was covered. The liquid has that blend of caramel and vanilla that we love in rum.

While Gosling’s Black Seal Rum is the traditional choice (and even trademarked for this cocktail), you can experiment with other high-quality dark rums to find your preferred taste. The rum should have a robust flavor profile that stands out in the cocktail’s balance.

Ginger Beer

Ginger beer provides the signature spice and fizz of a Dark and Stormy. Let’s dispel some myths – ginger beer is not beer, ginger beer is not alcoholic, ginger beer is not ginger ale. Not as common in the USA as it is in the UK, ginger beer is sparkling water flavored with ginger, a lot of ginger, so much ginger that it makes your nose crinkle. I love Fever-Tree.

A good ginger beer should be bold, zesty, and naturally fizzy to enhance the drinking experience. Avoid ginger ales, as they tend to be too sweet and lack the spicy kick required for this cocktail. Look for artisanal brands or those known for their strong ginger flavor.

Fresh Lime (Optional)

While not part of the original recipe, lime adds a refreshing citrus note that balances the sweetness of the rum and the spice of the ginger beer. A small squeeze of lime juice can add a layer of brightness, while a wedge of lime serves as an appealing garnish. Lime enhances the drink visually and can be tailored to suit personal preferences.

Ice

Ice is more than just a cooling agent; it’s a critical component in crafting a great Dark and Stormy. High-quality, fresh ice keeps the drink cold while slowly diluting it to maintain the balance of flavors over time. Cracked or cubed ice works best for this cocktail, ensuring a steady chill without overwhelming the taste.

Equipment Needed for the Dark and Stormy

Here is everything you need to make the cocktail:

• Highball Glass – A highball glass is essential for the proper presentation of a Dark and Stormy. The tall, narrow shape showcases the layered effect of dark rum floating on top of ginger beer, creating a visually striking drink.
• Jigger – Precision is key in crafting a well-balanced Dark and Stormy, and a jigger is the bartender’s tool for achieving accuracy. A jigger also helps maintain consistency when making multiple servings.
• Bar Spoon – A bar spoon is useful for gently stirring the drink if you prefer a more blended taste. However, many enthusiasts leave the layers intact to enjoy the visual and taste transition as the rum gradually mingles with the ginger beer. If you do stir, do so gently to preserve the drink’s carbonation.
• Knife and Cutting Board – If you decide to include lime as a garnish or ingredient, a sharp knife and a small cutting board are necessary for preparing lime wedges or slices. A well-cut garnish not only looks appealing but also makes it easy to add a fresh citrus burst when desired.
• Bottle Opener (Optional) – For ginger beers that come in capped bottles, a bottle opener is a simple but essential tool. Ensure it’s within reach to avoid any delays in crafting your cocktail. Some brands may also come with twist-off caps, so check before preparing.

Here is the recipe!

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