Navy-Strength Rum
Overproof rum historically supplied to the British Royal Navy — punchy and rich.
Navy-strength rum was the British Royal Navy's daily ration from 1655 until 1970, issued at roughly 57% ABV. Pusser's Rum bottles a reconstruction of the original blend and trademarks it for use in the official Painkiller. The higher proof means navy rum retains flavor when diluted with juice or shaken with ice; the extra ABV also gives Painkillers and tropical punches their telltale warmth. Smith & Cross is another favorite, leaning into Jamaican funk at 57% ABV.
History
From 1655 the Royal Navy issued half a pint of rum per sailor per day, proofed so that gunpowder would still ignite if the rum were spilled on it — the origin of 'proof.' The 'tot' was abolished in 1970.
Common uses
Painkiller, tropical punches, tiki classics.
Cocktails that use Navy-Strength Rum
- Painkiller — Navy rum, pineapple, orange, and coconut cream — created in the British Virgin Islands