Dark 'N' Stormy Cocktail Recipe
Dark 'N' Stormy Nutrition Facts
Calories:180
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:16g
Alcohol:14%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Dark 'N' Stormy cocktail has its origins in Bermuda, where it was first created in the early 20th century. The drink is a combination of Gosling's Black Seal Rum and ginger beer, which were both popular on the island at the time. The name Dark 'N' Stormy comes from the dark color of the rum and the stormy appearance created by the ginger beer.
- The cocktail is often associated with sailors, as Bermuda was a popular stopover for ships during the early 20th century.
- The Dark 'N' Stormy is now considered the national drink of Bermuda.
- The name and recipe of the cocktail are trademarked by Gosling's, and they insist that only their Black Seal Rum be used in the drink.
How Dark 'N' Stormy Tastes?
The Dark 'N' Stormy has a bold, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor profile. The rich, dark rum provides a strong base, while the ginger beer adds a refreshing, zesty kick. The lime juice adds a touch of tartness to balance out the sweetness.
Interesting facts about Dark 'N' Stormy
- Gosling's Black Seal Rum is aged for at least three years in charred oak barrels, which gives it its distinctive dark color and rich flavor.
- The Dark 'N' Stormy is often served in a highball glass, but can also be served in a Collins glass or a mason jar.
- In addition to being a popular cocktail in Bermuda, the Dark 'N' Stormy has also become a favorite among sailors and boating enthusiasts around the world.
Ingredients
- Dark rum: 2 oz(60ml)
- Ginger beer: 4 oz(120ml)
- Lime juice: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Ice: As needed
- Lime wedge: 1
A few good options for Dark 'N' Stormy are:
- Brockmans
- Silent Pool Gin
- Hendrick's Gin
Dark Rum
Dark Rum is the heart and soul of this cocktail, providing *depth and caramel notes. Skimp on it, and the storm becomes a drizzle. Substituting it with a lighter rum will make the cocktail less robust.
Emma Rose
Ginger Beer
This is your zing! Ginger beer adds *spice and effervescence. Swap it for ginger ale, and you'll miss the kick, leaving you with a polite, yet underwhelming, murmuring 'n' drizzly.
Alex Green
Lime Juice
The citrus spark! It cuts through the sweetness, adding *balance and brightness. Lose it, and the cocktail will lack its refreshing zing, making it feel like you're missing a part of your soul.
Mary Mitkina
Ice
*Ice keeps it cool and dilutes the drink ever so slightly to mellow the flavors. No ice equals a warm and overly potent punch-to-the-face kind of experience.
Emma Rose
Lime Wedge
The garnish is not just a pretty face. It adds an *aromatic touch and the option to squeeze in more lime to taste. Without it, the presentation is as sad as a pirate without a parrot.
Alex Green
Recipe. How to make Dark 'N' Stormy Drink
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Pour 2 oz of dark rum over the ice.
- Top with 4 oz of ginger beer.
- Add 0.5 oz of lime juice.
- Gently stir to combine.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lime juice for a brighter, fresher flavor.
- Don't over-stir the cocktail to maintain the layered look.
- Chill your glass before preparing the cocktail to keep it cold longer.
Perfect Pairings
Foods
- Grilled Seafood: The citrus and ginger notes pair well with the smoky flavors of grilled fish or shrimp.
- Jerk Chicken: The spicy and sweet flavors of the chicken complement the zesty kick of the cocktail.
- Sushi: A refreshing companion to delicate flavors of sushi, particularly with spicy rolls.
Drinks
- Iced Tea: Non-alcoholic option that complements the spices in the cocktail.
- Pale Ale: For those who want a beer alongside, a light pale ale won't compete with the richness of the Dark 'N' Stormy.
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What you could change in Dark 'N' Stormy
- Dark Rum: Any other dark rum can be used, but Gosling's Black Seal Rum is traditional.
- Ginger Beer: Can be replaced with ginger ale, but the flavor will be less spicy.
- Lime Juice: Lemon juice can be used for a different citrus twist.
Explore all drinks starting with D here
And of course - twists🍹
Smoke 'N' Stormy
- Swap the regular dark rum with a smoked rum to infuse a mesquite or hickory flair. This twist is for those who prefer a barbecue in their glass.
Spicy 'N' Stormy
- Add a few slices of fresh jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. This version will warm you up faster than a tropical sun, perfect for chilly evenings or for those who like to live on the spicy side.
Light 'N' Stormy
- Use a light rum and a dash of bitters to achieve a softer, more muted take on the classic. Light 'N' Stormy is the quiet cousin who still has a good story to tell, but doesn't shout it.
In case you forgot basics how to make Dark 'N' Stormy
Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
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Frequently Asked Questions on Dark 'N' Stormy
Can I use light rum instead of dark rum for this cocktail?
While you technically can, it's generally recommended to stick to the recipe. Dark rum gives the Dark 'N' Stormy its distinct color and rich flavor profile.
Can I make this drink without alcohol?
Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version by just using ginger beer and lime juice. However, this will alter the traditional taste.
What makes Gosling's Black Seal Rum unique?
Gosling's Black Seal Rum is renowned for its rich, intricate flavor, full-bodied and robust nature which comes from being aged in charred oak barrels.
Can I use other types of citrus instead of lime?
Yes, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like grapefruit or orange, but note that this will change the flavor profile.
Why use a highball glass for this cocktail?
Because the highball glass is tall and straight-sided, it keeps the carbonation active and thus keeps the cocktail cooler for longer.
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