The Portsmouth Distillery Co. announces the release of its newest premium spirit, Dark Navy Rum, a limited-edition, Navy-strength rum bottled at 54.5% ABV. Peter Morrell splices the main brace

Following the rapid sell out of the first batch, the Fort Cumberland distillery is now bottling a second of this highly sought after release. Each limited release bottle has been individually hand-numbered, preserving their collector’s item status.

The bold, Navy-strength rum packs depth and character and is a nod to Portsmouth’s proud naval heritage, delivering a powerful yet refined spirit for rum enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Vince Noyce, Operations Director and Distiller, said: “We’re extremely proud of our naval heritage, and this rum is a reflection of that legacy. We’ve taken our time to craft a spirit that’s both bold and balanced, in honour of Portsmouth’s long-standing relationship with the sea.

“The reaction so far has been fantastic. Pre-orders have exceeded expectations, and the level of interest and excitement from both long-time supporters and new customers has been incredibly rewarding. It’s clear there’s a real appetite for a spirit that not only delivers on taste but also tells a meaningful story.”

Crafted entirely on-site by The Portsmouth Distillery, the latest blend showcases the very best of their aged and unaged spirits: ‘1968’ (unaged), ‘1812’ (three-year-old), and ‘1747’ (five-year-old) single rums. A touch of dehydrated sugar cane juice is used in the rum-making process, added to deepen its colour, resulting in a rich, dark hue.

Peter Morrell, Editor comments “I have recently tried the Dark Navy Rum, and it was an exceptional experience. The rum pours a dark amber colour, and the bouquet has an array of intriguing aromas. There is burnt oak and vanilla from the two rums of the blend that were matured in ex-bourbon barrels, together with molasses, intense dried fruit, banana, nutmeg, caramel and floral notes.

“The first sip fills the entire mouth with an array of flavours, and you are very aware of the enhanced level of alcohol, 54.5% compared to the standard 40%. The palate offers warming spices, dark chocolate, an all-encompassing vanilla with touches of toasted coconut and yeasty bread.

“The finish is persistent majoring on ginger and other spices, butterscotch and dried fruit.

“My main tasting of the Dark Navy Rum was with a Glencairn nosing glass, and I was perfectly happy drinking it neat. This rum is also the perfect based for cocktails, as it shines through any mixer. I made a traditional Dark ‘n’ Stormy, just four ingredients, put ice in a high-ball glass, add 50ml of Portsmouth Distillery Dark Navy Rum, top up with a fiery ginger beer (Old Jamaica or Barritts), and a dash of lime juice, it brings dreams of Bermuda where it was invented. I then made something more offbeat, a dark rum Negroni. Fill a stubby whisky glass with ice, add in equal measure Portsmouth Distillery Dark Navy Rum, Campari and sweet red Vermouth, garnish with a slice of orange – delicious.

“This is an excellent rum, and if you miss the cut for the limited edition, try one of Portsmouth Distillery’s other outstanding rums.”

Founded in 2018, The Portsmouth Distillery has fast become a standout name in the UK craft spirits scene. By repurposing the historic Fort Cumberland as their home, the team has not only preserved an important piece of Portsmouth’s history but also given it a bold new future.

The distillery’s award-winning spirits and passionate approach have earned it recognition including Portsmouth Society’s “Best Re-use of an Historic Building” (2019) and Portsmouth News’ “Start-up of the Year” (2020).

The Dark Navy Rum is now available for purchase online and at the distillery. With only a limited number of bottles available, customers are encouraged to act quickly, you can buy in online from their shop at https://theportsmouthdistillery.com/shop/dark-navy-rum/

The shop also stocks other fine rums and interesting gins produced by The Portsmouth Distillery. Better still go and visit and take a tour to see how the spirits are made. For more on the this go to https://theportsmouthdistillery.com/portsmouth-distillery-tours/