📝 About This Recipe
Born in the shipyards of Bermuda following World War I, this iconic highball is as moody and evocative as a tropical tempest. It features the rich, molasses-heavy depth of Goslings Black Seal Rum layered over the sharp, effervescent bite of spicy ginger beer. This cocktail is a masterclass in balance, offering a refreshing citrus brightness that cuts through the sultry sweetness of the Caribbean spirit.
🥗 Ingredients
The Spirits & Mixers
- 2 ounces Goslings Black Seal Rum (essential for authenticity; do not substitute if possible)
- 4-5 ounces Spicy Ginger Beer (chilled; choose a high-quality brand with a strong ginger kick)
- 1/2 ounce Fresh Lime Juice (freshly squeezed for optimal acidity)
The Ice & Aromatics
- 1 cup Large Ice Cubes (clear ice is preferred for slower dilution)
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters (optional, for added botanical complexity)
For Garnish
- 1 piece Fresh Lime Wheel (cut into a thin circle)
- 1 piece Candied Ginger (optional, for a gourmet touch)
- 1 stem Fresh Mint Sprig (slapped to release oils)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Begin by chilling your highball glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes to ensure the cocktail stays crisp and refreshing.
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2
Prepare your garnish by slicing a fresh lime into 1/4 inch wheels and set aside.
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3
Remove the glass from the freezer and fill it to the brim with large, solid ice cubes.
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4
Measure and pour exactly 1/2 ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice over the ice.
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5
Add two dashes of Angostura bitters directly onto the ice if you desire a more complex, spicy profile.
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6
Pour the chilled ginger beer into the glass, filling it about 3/4 of the way up, leaving about two inches of space at the top.
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7
Gently stir the ginger beer and lime juice with a long bar spoon just once to integrate the flavors without losing carbonation.
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8
Measure 2 ounces of Goslings Black Seal Rum into a jigger.
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9
To create the 'storm cloud' effect, slowly pour the rum over the back of a bar spoon held just above the surface of the ginger beer.
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10
Watch as the dark rum marbles and swirls down into the pale ginger beer, creating the signature atmospheric look.
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11
Take your lime wheel and run the flesh around the rim of the glass to coat it with citrus oils before dropping it into the drink.
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12
Slap a mint sprig against your palm to wake up the aromatics and tuck it into the ice next to the lime.
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13
Serve immediately with a glass straw, allowing the guest to stir the layers themselves if they wish.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always use a 'spicy' ginger beer rather than a sweet ginger ale to ensure the drink isn't cloying. For the perfect float, pour the rum very slowly; the density difference is what creates the beautiful layering. Avoid crushed ice as it melts too quickly and will dilute the punchy flavors of the dark rum. If you find the drink too tart, you can add a bar spoon of simple syrup, though the ginger beer usually provides enough sugar. Goslings Black Seal is the trademarked rum for this drink; using a different dark rum technically makes it a 'Rum 'n' Ginger'.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with spicy Caribbean jerk chicken wings to complement the ginger heat. Serve alongside salty plantain chips and fresh mango salsa. Excellent with grilled seafood, particularly cedar-planked salmon or buttery lobster rolls. Enjoy as a sundowner on a humid afternoon to cut through the heat. Works beautifully with a side of sharp cheddar cheese and tropical fruit.