It’s synonymous with Bermuda,” says Goslings Rum CEO Malcolm Gosling. Goslings is the island’s oldest business and has been a staple of Bermudian culture since it was founded by James Gosling in 1806.

Thirty-One Whiskey is a blog devoted to the appreciation of good whiskey, fine cigars, and the value of a hard day’s work in the wood shop. What sets Goslings Rum apart from other rums on the market is its unique blend of aged rums from various Caribbean countries. Taking a whiff from the glass, the spirit smells pretty much exactly like you’d expect from a good rum. There’s the brown sugar sweetness (which is significantly more prominent than you typically find in other spirits like a whiskey), combined with some vanilla and some fruity aspects as well. There’s a bright note in here that I don’t see elsewhere, like a bit of lime or citrus fruit shining through. Beyond that, there are some baking spices and then just more of that sweetness from the beginning.

From classic drinks like the Dark and Stormy to modern twists like the Goslings Rum Punch, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy this versatile spirit. This makes a daquiri that is actually pretty darn great. I think what really does it for me is two aspects in particular. These days, it’s rare to find a spirits brand that remains independent and family-owned, but Goslings is now run by the seventh generation, with five members of the eighth generation also working for the company. For Malcolm Gosling, this remains a source of pride. “Our name is on that bottle, and we’re going to do our utmost to ensure that we’re producing a quality product every time,” he says. Gosling Brothers Limited is a Bermudan company primarily concerned with blending and distributing rum, importing and distributing spirits on the island, and maintaining a retail presence. A seriously strong dark rum from Gosling Distillery that weighs in with a whopping 75.5% ABV. Approach with caution!

The specific recipe remains a family secret, but we can piece together the broad strokes of how this comes together. In 2006 Bermuda Rum Distillers, Gosling Brothers Limited, reach an impressive milestone - 200 years as a family business!As a bartender, I have seen my fair share of spirits come and go in popularity. However, one brand that has consistently remained a favorite among customers is Goslings Rum.