Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic14.6% ABV2 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Easy
Why: 2 ingredients
Best for: BBQ, Chocolate, BBQ / Cookout
Ingredients
- 5 clDark RumBase
- 10 clGinger BeerMixer
How to Make It
TopGarnish
- In a highball glass filled with ice add 6cl dark rum and top with ginger beer.TopTopping adds length, bubbles, dilution or sweetness near the end.
- Garnish with lime wedge.GarnishGarnish changes aroma, presentation or final flavour impression.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
VeganVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.Match it with foodFind food pairings that complement the flavors in this drink.
Swap notes
Base spiritWhite rum is light and clean; gold rum adds vanilla warmth; dark rum is rich and molasses-heavy. Swapping between them changes the body and sweetness — reduce syrup if going darker.BubblesGinger beer is spiced and punchy. Ginger ale is milder and sweeter — use it if ginger beer is too much. Soda water removes the ginger character entirely but keeps the fizz. None of these swaps produce the same result; they change the drink's personality.
Rate this recipe
Frequently asked questions
- What is a Dark and Stormy?
- The Dark and Stormy is a cocktail made with 2 ingredients, traditionally served in a Highball Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 14.6%. A standard serving contains approximately 165 calories.
- What does a Dark and Stormy taste like?
- Dark and Stormy has a flavour profile featuring Ginger, Caramel, Molasses, Spice. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Dark and Stormy?
- Dark and Stormy pairs well with BBQ, Chocolate, Desserts. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Dark and Stormy?
- The Dark and Stormy has an ABV of approximately 14.6%. That's approximately 1.23 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 165 calories, 5.0g sugar, 7.0g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Dark and Stormy typically served?
- Dark and Stormy is a popular choice for BBQ / Cookout, Winter / Cozy. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Dark and Stormy?
- If you enjoy Dark and Stormy, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a Dark and Stormy at home?
- Yes. The Dark and Stormy uses 2 ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home. You will need a Highball Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Dark and Stormy with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.