IBA
Dark 'N' Stormy – IBA
Build ∙ 2 min ∙ 16.2% ABV ∙
The Dark 'n' Stormy is an official IBA contemporary classic built directly on dark rum and premium ginger beer, served over ice in a highball glass. A fiery, effervescent spice leads the palate, giving way to a deep, molasses-rich sugarcane backbone and finishing with a crisp, refreshing citrus lift.
Ingredients
1
Servings
Garnish
Instructions for 1 serving
- Pre-chill a glass
- In a highball glass filled with ice pour the Ginger beer 100 ml and top floating with Dark rum 60 ml
- Garnish with a lime wedge or a lime wheel
Tips
- Build in the glass over ice, ginger beer first, then float the dark rum on top for the signature layered 'storm cloud' look.
- Choose a spicy, robust ginger beer rather than mild ginger ale — the heat is what balances the heavy rum.
- Give it a gentle stir just before drinking if you want the rum and ginger beer to fully combine.
- Add a squeeze of lime to cut the sweetness; some versions include lime juice and simple syrup.
History
The Dark 'n' Stormy is tied to Bermuda, where Gosling Brothers claims the drink was invented just after World War I, originally pairing Gosling's Black Seal rum with Barritt's Ginger Beer before that partnership ended. Gosling Brothers registered "Dark 'n' Stormy" (one apostrophe) as a US trademark in 1991, restricting commercial use of the name to drinks made with its own Black Seal rum, and has pursued trademark disputes against several spirits companies over the years.
This build reflects the version the International Bartenders Association added to its official list on May 19, 2020, under the New Era Drinks category — spelled with two apostrophes rather than Gosling's registered one, and built by floating the rum over the ginger beer rather than stirring the two together.
FAQ
What is in a Dark 'n' Stormy?
A Dark 'n' Stormy is made with just two ingredients: dark rum and ginger beer, built over ice in a highball glass and garnished with lime. Lime juice and a little simple syrup are also commonly added to round out the ginger heat.
Is a Dark 'n' Stormy shaken or stirred?
Neither — it is built directly in the glass. Fill a highball with ice, pour the ginger beer, then float the dark rum on top so it settles down through the drink like a dark storm cloud.
What glass is a Dark 'n' Stormy served in?
A Dark 'n' Stormy is served in a highball glass filled with ice and garnished with a lime wedge or wheel. The tall glass suits its long, ginger-beer-heavy build.
What rum should I use in a Dark 'n' Stormy?
Dark rum is essential — it provides the "dark" in the name and the rich molasses depth. The original and trademarked version uses Gosling's Black Seal, though any full-bodied dark rum works at home.
What is the difference between a Dark 'n' Stormy and a Moscow Mule?
Both pair a spirit with ginger beer, but a Dark 'n' Stormy uses dark rum while a Moscow Mule uses vodka. The rum makes the Dark 'n' Stormy warmer and richer; the Mule is crisper and cleaner.
