In the shadowed corners of Bermuda, where the sun doesn’t quite reach, and the palm trees whisper secrets, Goslings has been perfecting the art of rum-making.
Since 1806, when James Gosling’s ship was battered by the stormy seas and spat onto the Bermuda shores, Goslings has been distilling not just rum.. but stories.
The best Goslings rums are dark, deep, rich and generously spiced, so no wonder Goslings has become integral to Bermuda’s national drink, the Dark’ n Stormy®.
Best Goslings Rums
Packed with delicious flavours of molasses, fruits, vanilla and spice, here is my take on the best Goslings rums from their collection.
1. Goslings Black Seal Rum
Overview
- Distiller: Gosling Bros
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Bermuda
- Colour: Dark Brown
Review
Goslings Black Seal Rum boasts a dark, rich, smooth flavour profile. This rum has been aged in charred American oak casks and is the heart of Bermuda’s national drink, the Dark’ n Stormy®.
On the Nose
Notes of butterscotch, vanilla, herbs, and dark molasses.
On the Palate
A well-balanced blend of rich caramel, toasted spices, and plenty of dark stewed fruits, culminating in a spiced finish that lingers at the back of your throat.
Best Served
This rum shines in the classic Dark ‘n Stormy® cocktail, pairing perfectly with ginger beer.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
2. Goslings Black Seal Rum (151 Proof)
Overview
- Distiller: Gosling Bros
- ABV: 75.5% (151 Proof)
- Country: Bermuda
- Colour: Dark Brown
Review
A more potent version of the classic, Goslings Black Seal Rum (151 Proof), packs a punch much like a navy-strength gin. It retains the signature flavours of its counterpart but with an added intensity. Also, try Pusser’s Rum.
On the Nose
Rich molasses, dark chocolate, cardamom and cinnamon.
On the Palate
Deep caramel and molasses notes intertwined with cinnamon and cardamom. I especially enjoyed the sweet vanilla finish with its nuances of tobacco and coffee.
Best Served
I prefer Goslings Black Seal Rum in a classic rum & coke. You can also try it in a Zombie cocktail.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
3. Goslings Spirited Seas Ocean Aged Rum
Overview
- Distiller: Gosling Bros
- ABV: 44% (88 Proof)
- Country: Bermuda
- Colour: Dark Brown
Review
This is one of the more unique types of rum, in my opinion. Goslings Spirited Seas Ocean Aged Rum is matured at sea, harnessing the ocean’s magic to impart a distinct flavour profile.
On the Nose
Salted caramel, oak, and tropical fruits.
On the Palate
Opens with rich molasses and sweet stoned fruits, revealing salted caramel, chocolate, and a touch of tropical fruit mid-palate. The finish of smooth oak is gently spiced.
Best Served
This seafaring rum is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks to appreciate its oceanic nuances. Alternatively, how about a rum-based Old Fashioned?
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
4. Goslings Family Reserve Old Rum
Overview
- Distiller: Gosling Bros
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Bermuda
- Colour: Dark Brown
Review
Feeling fancy? Often dubbed the “Champagne of Rums,” Goslings Family Reserve Old Rum is a premium offering, aged to perfection and presented in a hand-labelled bottle.
On the Nose
Rich oak, dried fruits, and a hint of chocolate and leather.
On the Palate
A symphony of aged oak, dark chocolate, molasses and dried fruits, culminating in a long and velvety finish of smoked vanilla and delicious spices.
Best Served
I have to say this rum is best savoured neat, allowing its complexities to shine.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
5. Goslings Papa Seal Single Barrel Bermuda Rum
Overview
- Distiller: Gosling Bros
- ABV: 41.5% (83 Proof)
- Country: Bermuda
- Colour: Amber
Review
A limited-edition gem, Goslings Papa Seal Single Barrel Bermuda Rum is a testament to the brand’s dedication to excellence. Each bottle is unique, reflecting the character of the barrel it was aged in.
On the Nose
Caramel, banana, spice and a touch of leather.
On the Palate
Layers of rich caramel and molasses right from the start. Toasted oak and hints of banana are revealed mid-palate. The finish is gently spiced and lingers like a Jamaican rum.
Best Served
I say keep it simple! Enjoy neat in a tulip-shaped glass to fully appreciate its depth and character.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
Andrew’s Top Pick
Goslings Black Seal Rum
Even though it’s the brand’s entry-level rum, my top pick is Goslings Black Seal Rum. Dark, rich and full of molasses, caramel and spice, this is a versatile rum and a must for a Dark’ n Stormy®.
Mixer/Cocktail Guide
| No. | Name | Best For Cocktail |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Goslings Black Seal Rum | Dark ‘n Stormy |
| 2 | Goslings Black Seal Rum (151 Proof) | Zombie, 151 Swizzle |
| 3 | Goslings Spirited Seas Ocean Aged Rum | Ocean Aged Daiquiri |
| 4 | Goslings Family Reserve Old Rum | Old Fashioned, Sipping Neat |
| 5 | Goslings Papa Seal Single Barrel Bermuda Rum | Premium Rum Old Fashioned, Sipping Neat |
Conclusion
This concludes my voyage through the Goslings rum collection, packed with rum history. With its distinct aroma and taste, I found that each rum is different enough to stand on its own two feet.
Whether you’re a seasoned rum enthusiast or just beginning your journey, the best Goslings rums are waiting to whisk you away on a Bermuda adventure.
If you are new to the brand, I recommend starting at the classic Goslings Black Seal Rum and slowly working your way upwards through the collection and seeing how far the journey takes you.
Also Read: 5 Best Kraken Rums With Monstrous Flavour
Further Reading
Below are some additional articles from The Drinks Geek blog. We write articles on several fascinating areas of drinks, including different brands, drink types, cocktail recipes and more.
