Discover the essence of Bermuda with Gosling's Black Seal Dark Rum, a legendary spirit crafted from a 150-year-old family recipe. Aged in charred American oak barrels, this rum delivers a rich, full-bodied experience infused with notes of velvety butterscotch, smooth caramel, and a whisper of vanilla. Its unique blend of pot and continuous still distillates offers unparalleled depth and character, making it the cornerstone of Bermuda's iconic Dark 'n Stormy® cocktail. Whether savored neat, mixed into cocktails, or as a culinary secret in Bermudian fish chowder, Gosling's Black Seal embodies the island's spirit, blending history, flavor, and tradition in every sip.
Process & Profile
A Blend of Tradition and Craftsmanship
Gosling's Black Seal Dark Rum is a testament to the art of rum-making. Produced in Bermuda, it combines pot still and column still distillates, enhancing complexity and balance. The rum is aged in charred American oak barrels, which lend it its deep, rich character and distinctive dark copper-mahogany hue. This dedication to tradition results in a spirit that's smooth yet full-bodied, embodying the essence of Bermuda in every sip.
The name "Black Seal" pays homage to its origins, referring to the original black wax used to seal bottles over a century ago. Today, it stands as a symbol of quality and authenticity.
Tasting Notes
Depth and Complexity in Every Sip
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Appearance: A captivating dark mahogany hue with reddish undertones.
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Nose: Rich aromas of caramel, vanilla, butterscotch, and molasses, layered with hints of dark fruit and spice.
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Palate: A well-balanced medley of sweet caramel, vanilla, and butterscotch, complemented by notes of raisin, prune, dark berries, and a touch of licorice. Subtle hints of spice and leather add depth.
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Finish: Long, smooth, and slightly peppery, leaving a lingering warmth and a hint of smoky sweetness.
What Makes It Special
The Spirit of Bermuda
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Heritage: Over 200 years of Gosling family expertise in crafting rums, making Black Seal iconic in Bermuda and beyond.
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Production Process: A carefully curated blend of aged pot still and continuous still rums, showcasing a balance of bold flavors and refined elegance.
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Awards & Recognition: Gosling's Black Seal has received numerous accolades, including the Platinum Medal from the Beverage Testing Institute, highlighting its exceptional quality.
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Cultural Signature: The definitive ingredient in Bermuda's national drink, the Dark 'n Stormy® cocktail, this rum is both a cultural and culinary staple.
How to Enjoy
Versatile and Timeless
Gosling's Black Seal Dark Rum shines as both a sipping rum and a cocktail base.
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Classic Dark 'n Stormy®: Mix 2 oz of Gosling's Black Seal Rum with 6 oz of ginger beer over ice and garnish with a lime wedge for a refreshing stormy twist.
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Bermuda Rum Swizzle: A tangy, tropical punch featuring Black Seal and fruity delights, perfect for festive occasions.
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Neat or On the Rocks: Savor the intricate layers of flavor by enjoying it pure or with a touch of ice.
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Culinary Uses: Elevate desserts, glazes, or even savory dishes like fish chowders with its bold, sweet complexity.
Experience Gosling's Black Seal
The Pinnacle of Rum Excellence
With its rich history, meticulous crafting process, and unparalleled flavor profile, Gosling's Black Seal Dark Rum is more than just a spirit—it's an invitation to savor the essence of Bermuda. Whether you‚Äôre mixing up a cocktail, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a quiet evening, let Gosling's Black Seal be your companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Gosling's Black Seal Rum unique?
Gosling's Black Seal Rum is crafted using a secret family recipe over 150 years old. It is made by blending rums distilled in both pot stills (known for rich, flavorful distillates) and continuous stills, resulting in a nuanced spirit with smooth notes of butterscotch, vanilla, and caramel. The rum is aged in charred American oak barrels, giving it a rich and complex flavor profile.
What is the origin of the name "Black Seal"?
The name "Black Seal" originated from the seal of black wax that Gosling's used to secure the caps of the original recycled champagne bottles in which the rum was bottled. This distinctive practice became a hallmark for the brand.
What is the flavor profile of Gosling's Black Seal Rum?
This dark rum is known for its full-bodied and complex flavor. It features notes of butterscotch, caramel, vanilla, and a hint of fruity sweetness, complemented by subtle baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The long aging process in oak barrels imparts a toasted and woody undertone to the spirit.
Is Gosling's Black Seal Rum versatile for cocktails?
Yes, it is highly versatile and a key ingredient in classic cocktails such as the Dark ‘n Stormy, which pairs the rum with ginger beer and lime. It is also excellent in tropical and tiki-inspired drinks, enhancing their complexity and depth.
Can Gosling's Black Seal Rum be enjoyed neat or on the rocks?
Absolutely. While it is commonly used as a mixer, Gosling's Black Seal Rum can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks for those who appreciate its rich and nuanced flavors. It delivers a smooth sipping experience with a lingering warmth.
How long is Gosling's Black Seal Rum aged?
Gosling's does not specify an exact age statement on their bottles, but the rum is aged in charred oak barrels for a sufficient period to develop its robust flavor profile and deep color.
How does Gosling's Black Seal Rum compare to other dark rums?
Gosling's Black Seal Rum stands out for its blend of pot-distilled and column-distilled rums, which gives it a balanced yet complex flavor. Its aging in charred oak barrels adds richness and depth, distinguishing it from other dark rums that might rely heavily on coloring or flavor additives.
What type of dishes pair well with Gosling's Black Seal Rum?
The rum's caramel and vanilla notes make it an excellent choice for desserts like rum cakes, bananas foster, or spiced puddings. It can also be used in savory dishes, such as marinades or sauces for pork and seafood, adding a sweet and smoky depth to the flavors.
What is the best way to store Gosling's Black Seal Rum?
Store the bottle in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve its quality. Ensure the cap is tightly sealed to prevent evaporation or contamination. Proper storage will maintain the rum's rich flavors over time.
