Every year, there’s a moment when the season shifts. Days become shorter, and the nights feel long, and we start craving the company of our friends and meaningful conversations. This is the time of the year when we need cocktails specially made for depth rather than refreshment. This is the prime season for a Dark and Stormy.

We, at Dread River, firmly believe that cold weather needs cocktails with purpose. Our Blackstrap Rum provides the classic Dark and Stormy with depth, richness, and a Southern backbone, which are exactly the characteristics of a cocktail that the winter season demands.

This guide explores the definitive Dark and Stormy and carves a path for you to explore the cocktail further on your own. 

What is a Dark and Stormy, Really?

The Dark and Stormy is a simple cocktail made out of dark rum, ginger beer, and lime. 

The lasting effect of the cocktail comes from the balance of sweetness, spice and the heat from the alcohol. All these strong flavours work together to add character to the Dark and Stormy. 

It is often referred to as a summer cocktail, but it fits exceptionally well with the cold weather, especially with our Blackstrap Rum.  The warmth from the ginger and the depth of the rum is exceptionally satisfying during winter.

The misconception lies in the rum itself. Many dark rums are designed to soften and disappear behind mixers. Rum refuses to do that, and that refusal is exactly what makes the Dark and Stormy a winter staple. Shop Dread River Rum.

The Core Recipe: Dark and Stormy with Dread River’s Blackstrap Rum

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Dread River Blackstrap Rum
• 4–5 oz high-quality ginger beer
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• Lime wheel or expressed peel

Method

Start by choosing a Highball or a Collins glass. Add the ginger beer over some ice and then squeeze some lime juice on it. At the end, gently pour the rum on top to make a visual contrast. 

Why This Version Works

This Dark and Stormy is a bold cocktail. When the cool winds cut to your bone, the rum steps in to warm you up. The sweetness of the ginger beer keeps the drink refreshing, and the rum provides the depth. Enjoy your evening and sip slowly on this wonderful drink. Here are a couple more ways to make a Dark and Stormy.

Dark and Stormy vs. Bourbon Cocktails

Bourbon dominates winter for good reason. Oak, vanilla, caramel, and slow-building warmth make it ideal for late nights and quiet sipping.

Rum offers a different experience. Where bourbon settles in, the Dark and Stormy stays active. Molasses depth meets ginger spice and citrus lift, creating a cocktail that works earlier in the evening and alongside food. It refreshes without sacrificing substance.

The strongest bars don’t choose between the two. They make room for both. The Dark and Stormy doesn’t replace bourbon; it expands the emotional range of the season. Check out our collection of spirits to incorporate some and create fantastic cocktails.