How to Make a Dark and Stormy

How to Make the Perfect Dark & Stormy

The Dark & Stormy. Just the name sounds cool, right? It’s a simple mix of dark rum and ginger beer, but it's a classic for a reason. It's refreshing and subtly spicy. Perfect for a quiet night in or a party with friends. But a really good Dark & Stormy takes more than just dumping two things together. Let me show you how.

The Secret's in the Ingredients

Like any good cocktail, the ingredients matter. A lot. We're talking about the best dark rum and ginger beer you can find.

The Rum: The Heart of the Storm

Don't use cheap rum! Look for something rich and complex. Think molasses, caramel, and spice. It needs to hold its own against the ginger beer, but not overpower it. Here are a few I like:

• Gosling's Black Seal Rum: The classic choice. It's rich and sweet – a true Dark & Stormy staple.
• Mount Gay Black Barrel Rum: This one has a smoky flavor. Adds another dimension.
• Myers's Dark Rum: A bit sweeter, great for beginners.

Try different rums. Find your favorite!

The Ginger Beer: The Zing!

Important note: Ginger beer is not ginger ale. Ginger ale is too sweet and not spicy enough. You want a good ginger bite! Consider these factors when you choose:

• Fever-Tree Ginger Beer: High quality, crisp, and clean.
• Q Drinks Ginger Beer: Strong ginger flavor, a touch sweet.
• Bundaberg Ginger Beer: A classic Aussie brand, robust and spicy.

Experiment! Some like it spicier than others. It’s all about personal preference.

The Classic Recipe

Ready to make one? Here's what you'll need:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Dark Rum (Gosling's is traditional)
• 4 oz Chilled Ginger Beer
• Lime wedge (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Add the rum.
3. Top with the chilled ginger beer.
4. Stir gently. Don't over-stir! You'll lose the fizz.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge. Voilà!

Beyond the Classic

Want to get creative? Here are a few ideas:

Spice it Up:

Add a few jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce.

A Citrus Twist:

A splash of fresh lime juice brightens things up.

Lighter and Fizzier:

Try replacing some of the ginger beer with club soda.

Tropical Dark & Stormy:

A little pineapple juice or coconut cream adds a fun twist.

Tips for Dark & Stormy Success

• Use good ingredients. Seriously. It makes all the difference.
• Chill everything. A cold drink is a happy drink.
• Gentle stirring. Preserve that fizz!
• Experiment! Find your perfect rum and ginger beer combo.
• Garnish generously. That lime wedge is important.

A Little History

The Dark & Stormy's origins are a bit mysterious. But it's believed to have started in Bermuda in the early 1900s. Gosling's Rum claims to be the creator. Regardless, it's a beloved drink worldwide – a perfect blend of dark and stormy flavors!

Go Make a Storm!

Making a great Dark & Stormy is easy. Grab your ingredients, chill everything, and get ready for a delicious drink. Cheers!