Gosling's Black Seal: Bermuda's Legendary Dark Rum

Luna Chavez — The benchmark dark rum

9/10

Every dark rum is measured against Gosling's Black Seal, and most fall short. The blend of rich molasses, caramel, butterscotch, brown sugar, and subtle spice is perfectly calibrated. It has presence and depth without being overwhelming. The Dark and Stormy exists because of this rum, and that alone earns it legendary status.

Yasmine Najjar — Great in cocktails, OK neat

7/10

This is really designed for mixing rather than sipping. The heavy molasses and brown sugar character is wonderful in a Dark and Stormy or a Rum Punch, but on its own it can feel a bit one-note. The butterscotch sweetness is pleasant but there's not a lot of complexity.

Erik Strom — A bit too sweet for me

6/10

The molasses and brown sugar sweetness is quite pronounced, even for a dark rum. I prefer something with more oak and spice to balance things out. It makes a decent Dark and Stormy where the ginger beer cuts through, but neat I find it cloying after a glass.