The Dark & Stormy – Bold and Spicy Perfection

IBA Cocktail

With a splash of spice and a touch of stormy drama, the Dark & Stormy is a cocktail that lives up to its name and packs a punch with every sip.

The Dark & Stormy – Bold and Spicy Perfection

The Dark & Stormy is a cocktail for those who love a little intrigue in their drink. Made with Dark Rum and Ginger Beer, it’s a simple yet powerful combination that brings together the warmth of the Caribbean and the bite of Ginger. The drink is typically topped with a wedge of Lime, enhancing the refreshing quality of the Ginger Beer.

What makes the Dark & Stormy unique is the way it’s layered, with the Dark Rum ‘floating’ atop the Ginger Beer to create the visual effect of a stormy sky. When stirred, the Rum and Ginger come together for a rich, spicy, and refreshing experience that’s hard to beat.

This cocktail has become a staple for warm days and cool nights alike, thanks to its perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and a hint of citrus. It’s the ultimate drink for sipping on a patio or enjoying with friends at a laid-back gathering.

A spicy, stormy cocktail born in the heart of Bermuda.

Did you know that Dark & Stormy...

is the national drink of Bermuda, loved for its spicy, refreshing kick.

Who invented this cocktail

The Dark & Stormy was invented in Bermuda by sailors combining local Rum with Ginger Beers.

The origin and history of "Dark & Stormy"

The Dark & Stormy originated in Bermuda, where it was created by sailors who combined local Gosling’s Dark Rum with spicy Ginger Beer. Today, it’s a recognised classic with ties to the island’s maritime history.

Get Our Free Cocktail App

Start making cocktails at home within minutes!

download mishela app from android
download mishela app from ios

Bartender Tips for making the perfect "Dark & Stormy"

For a perfect Dark & Stormy at home, try these tips:
  • Use a rich Dark Rum for depth of flavour.
  • Pour the Rum slowly over the Ginger Beers to create the signature ‘stormy’ effect.
  • Garnish with a Lime wedge for a zesty finish.
  • Opt for a high-quality Ginger Beer to keep the spice bold and refreshing.

Dark & Stormy recipe

Prep: 3 minTotal: 5 min

Ingredients

  • 50 ml DARK RUM
  • 25 ml FRESH LIME JUICE
  • 5 ml SUGAR SYRUP
  • 2 dashes ANGOSTURA BITTER
  • 100 ml GINGER BEER
  • 1⅔ oz DARK RUM
  • ¾ oz FRESH LIME JUICE
  • ⅙ oz SUGAR SYRUP
  • 2 dashes ANGOSTURA BITTER
  • 3⅓ oz GINGER BEER

Garnish

  • LIME WEDGE

Preparation

  1. Prepare the glass with some ice
  2. Pour all the ingredients except the last into the glass
  3. Top with Ginger Beer
  4. Garnish and serve

Nutritional Info

  • Calories:160 kcal
  • Alcohol units:2.1 units
  • ABV (Alcohol By Volume)~12%

Dietary Info

VeganVegetarianGluten-freeDairy-free
Country of origin: Bermuda

"Dark & Stormy" Variations

  • Add a splash of Pineapple Juice for a tropical twist
  • Swap Dark Rum for Spiced Rum for a bolder flavour
  • Use Ginger Ale instead of Ginger Beer for a milder taste
  • Try a squeeze of Lemon instead of Lime for a citrusy change

Whether you’re at the beach or the bar, the Dark & Stormy is the perfect drink to bring a little adventure to your glass. It’s bold, refreshing, and always leaves a lasting impression.

Leave a comment

All comments are moderated before appearing on the site and will be reviewed within 24 hours.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Current Comments: 5

Sam R
Nov 23, 2024
The perfect balance of spicy ginger beer and dark rum! I've found that using fresh lime juice really makes a difference - it brightens up the whole drink. Don't skip the Angostura bitters, they add this wonderful depth that ties everything together.
doug austin
Sep 6, 2024
Tried this at home using the recipe from Mishela app and after having it at a beach bar. The key is definitely using fresh lime juice, not bottled. I also found that adding the Angostura bitters last creates these amazing aromatic swirls in the drink.
John
Sep 3, 2024
Great drink for summer evenings! I like to use Goslings Black Seal rum for authenticity, but any good dark rum works well. The ginger beer needs to be spicy though - no bland stuff here!
Gines Lopez
May 31, 2024
My go-to cocktail when I want something refreshing but with a kick. The combination of dark rum and ginger beer is unbeatable. Pro tip: serve it in a tall glass filled completely with ice - keeps it perfectly cold and properly diluted.
Carlos
Feb 12, 2024
Love this drink but found it too sweet with the regular amount of syrup. I cut the sugar syrup to just 2-3ml and it's perfect for me. The lime juice and ginger beer provide enough sweetness already.