Dark 'n Stormy Recipe

A traditional Dark 'n Stormy requires dark rum (preferably Gosling's Black Seal), spicy ginger beer (not ginger ale), fresh lime juice, ice cubes, and a lime wedge for garnish. The authentic recipe insists on Gosling's rum to create the signature storm-like appearance.

Learn how to make Dark 'n Stormy Recipe by filling a highball glass with ice, adding fresh lime juice, pouring in ginger beer, and then carefully floating dark rum on top using a bar spoon. This layering technique creates the signature "stormy" effect where dark rum appears like storm clouds gathering over the ginger beer sea. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve without stirring.

Gosling's Black Seal rum is specified because the Dark 'n Stormy is actually a trademarked cocktail owned by Gosling Brothers Ltd. of Bermuda. Legally, only cocktails made with their specific rum can be called a Dark 'n Stormy. The rum's rich, dark character also creates the perfect "storm cloud" effect.

Ginger beer is essential for authentic rum cocktails like this because it's brewed and fermented, giving it a much spicier, more intense ginger flavour than ginger ale, which is simply carbonated water flavoured with ginger. The stronger kick of ginger beer provides the necessary balance to stand up against dark rum's rich character.

Rum and ginger beer cocktails are perfect for summer gatherings, beach parties, and nautical-themed events due to their Bermudian sailing heritage. Their refreshing yet warming qualities make them suitable for both hot summer evenings and cool autumn nights, while their simplicity makes them excellent choices for casual entertaining.