Recently strolling through the Victualling Yard in Bermuda where warehouses which used to store food-stuffs still stand, I worked up a little thirst as I made my way to the Frog & Onion Pub.
At the pub my thirst was quenched by a frosty pint of Trunk Island Pale Ale (IPA) made by the Dockyard Brewing Company. With a bitter finish, this is one of five hand-made brews made by Dockyard, a microbrewery and the only on-site brewing company on the island. Interesting fact about Bermudian drinking water, since there are no rivers or fresh water lakes, their primary source of fresh water comes from rain water collected on the roofs of buildings and stored in cisterns underground. I was told that their white stepped shaped roofs are built out of limestone which is treated with a special non-toxic paint every couple of years.
Gosling's RumGosling's Rum
Also on the island you will find the internationally trademarked National Drink of Bermuda made with Ginger Beer and Gosling's Black Seal Rum, the Dark 'n Stormy. Gosling's is the oldest business in Bermuda established in 1806 by James Gosling, the son of a London wine and spirits merchant. Black Seal Rum is often used to christen roofs of new buildings once they are watertight with toasts and celebratory drinks following.
Bermuda Rum Swizzle recipeBermuda Rum Swizzle recipe
Then there is the Bermuda Rum Swizzle, the un-official national drink of Bermuda made with Goslings's Rum. Every Bermudian makes their own mix with secret ingredients often including Grenadine, lime juice, Angostura Bitters, and Falernum (a sweet syrup with allspice, almond, clove, ginger, lime, and vanilla flavours). The first Swizzle was served by the Swizzle Inn in 1932. My first Swizzle was served by Captain Smitty this month on the beautiful blue waters of Bermuda after snorkelling around Hawkins Island, a delicious drink. Cheers!