Dark ‘N’ Stormy
A bold and refreshing Bermudian classic featuring dark rum floated over spicy ginger beer with a lime garnish
SUGGESTED GLASSWARE
Highball Glass
Recipe
- Dark Rum60 ml
- Ginger Beer120 ml
- Lime Juice15 ml
- Lime1 wheel
- Angostura Aromatic Bitters2 dashes
Instructions
Equipment
Description
The Dark ‘N’ Stormy is Bermuda’s national drink, created after World War I and now a beloved cocktail worldwide. This simple yet sophisticated drink showcases the perfect marriage of rich, molasses-forward dark rum and fiery ginger beer, creating a complex flavor profile that’s both warming and refreshing. The signature preparation method involves floating the dark rum on top of the ginger beer, creating a dramatic layered effect that resembles storm clouds.
Nutritional information
1 cocktail (225ml)Tips & Notes
Never substitute ginger ale for ginger beer - ginger beer has the essential spice and body that makes this cocktail work. Look for brands like Barritt's, Fever-Tree, or Thomas Henry.
Pour the rum very slowly over the back of a bar spoon to achieve the perfect float. The dramatic layering effect is part of the drink's signature presentation.
Use Gosling's Black Seal rum for authenticity - it's the only rum that can legally be called a "Dark 'N' Stormy" due to trademark. However, any quality dark rum with molasses character will work.
Never shake this cocktail. Always build it in the glass to preserve the ginger beer's carbonation and allow for proper layering.
Adjust the ginger beer quantity to taste - some prefer 100ml for a more rum-forward drink, while others enjoy the full 120ml for maximum spice and refreshment.
Why is it called a Dark 'N' Stormy and where did it originate?
The Dark ‘N’ Stormy originated in Bermuda after World War I and is the island’s official national drink. The name comes from the drink’s appearance – the dark rum floating on top of golden ginger beer resembles storm clouds over turbulent seas.
Can I use any dark rum, or does it have to be Gosling's?
While “Dark ‘N’ Stormy” is trademarked by Gosling’s and technically requires their Black Seal rum for the official name, you can make the same style drink with any high-quality dark rum that has rich molasses and brown sugar notes. The result will be delicious, just not officially a “Dark ‘N’ Stormy.”
What's the difference between ginger beer and ginger ale for this recipe?
Ginger beer is essential for this cocktail – it has a much stronger, spicier ginger flavor and more body than ginger ale. Ginger ale is too mild and sweet, lacking the fiery bite that balances the rich dark rum. Always use ginger beer for an authentic Dark ‘N’ Stormy.
Should I stir the drink or leave it layered?
You can serve it either way! The layered presentation is dramatic and traditional, allowing drinkers to experience the rum first before it blends naturally. Alternatively, a gentle stir before serving creates a more integrated flavor from the first sip. Both methods are perfectly acceptable.
Old Fashioned
A timeless classic cocktail that showcases the whiskey with just enough sugar, bitters, and citrus oil to enhance its character.
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