Pusser's British Navy Gunpowder Proof Original Admiralty Rum: A Taste of Naval History at Full Strength
Experience the undiluted power and profound heritage of the Royal Navy's most iconic spirit with Pusser's British Navy Gunpowder Proof Original Admiralty Rum. This exceptionally robust expression is blended to the exact historical strength and specifications of the rum ration doled out to British sailors for over three centuries, particularly on "Black Tot Day" on July 31, 1970, when the tradition ended. It is a genuine liquid link to a bygone era of maritime adventure.
The term "Gunpowder Proof" isn't merely a name; it refers to an ingenious historical test of a rum's strength. Before hydrometers, British sailors would mix a small amount of rum with gunpowder and attempt to ignite it. If the mixture still flared, the rum was deemed "proof" (usually around 54.5% ABV / 109 Proof), proving it hadn't been watered down. Pusser's Gunpowder Proof proudly adheres to this precise strength, delivering the authentic historical experience.
Like all Pusser's rums, this expression is a meticulously crafted blend of five West Indian rums, predominantly hailing from the historic Demerara Distillers Ltd. in Guyana and historically including components from Trinidad. Its profound character is largely due to the use of distillate from the venerable Port Mourant Double Wooden Pot Still in Guyana, a unique apparatus dating back to 1732 that imparts an unparalleled richness and depth. Made from sugarcane molasses, the blend is aged for a minimum of three years in charred oak bourbon barrels, naturally developing its deep color and complex flavor profile. Pusser's maintains its commitment to authenticity by adding no artificial flavors or colors.
Bottled at a commanding 54.5% ABV (109 Proof), this Gunpowder Proof rum offers an intensified version of Pusser's signature profile, perfect for those who appreciate a full-bodied and historically accurate spirit.
Key Characteristics:
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Authentic Gunpowder Proof: Bottled at the precise 54.5% ABV (109 Proof) that historically passed the gunpowder test, ensuring historical accuracy.
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Original Admiralty Blend: Crafted to the Royal Navy's precise historical specifications for their rum ration.
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Historical Significance: Direct link to centuries of British Naval tradition and "Black Tot Day."
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Caribbean Blend: A complex blend of rums primarily from Guyana (including the Port Mourant wooden pot still) and Trinidad.
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Molasses-Based: Made from high-quality Demerara sugarcane molasses.
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Aged in Charred Oak: Matured for a minimum of three years in charred oak bourbon barrels.
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All-Natural: No artificial flavors or colors added.
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Robust & Full-Flavored: Delivers an intensified version of Pusser's classic profile due to higher proof.
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: Deep, rich amber, showcasing its natural aging.
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Nose: More intense and pronounced than the lower proof, with robust aromas of dark molasses, rich treacle, and caramelized fruits (fig, raisin). Deep notes of vanilla, brown sugar, and a powerful array of warming spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice) are evident, intertwined with a subtle smoky oak.
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Palate: Full-bodied, remarkably rich, and surprisingly smooth despite its higher proof. A powerful wave of dark brown sugar, toffee, and dark chocolate emerges, followed by cooked tropical fruits, licorice, and a pronounced, yet well-integrated, oak spice. The higher ABV amplifies the flavors, providing a warm, lingering heat.
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Finish: Long, incredibly deep, and satisfyingly warm. Lingering notes of rich molasses, dark fruit, baking spices, and a refined oak char provide a profound and memorable conclusion.
Awards & Recognition:
Pusser's British Navy Gunpowder Proof Original Admiralty Rum consistently receives top accolades for its historical accuracy and exceptional quality:
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Multiple Double Gold Medals and Gold Medals at prestigious spirits competitions, including the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, World Rum Awards, and the International Spirits Challenge.
- Often singled out by critics for its intensity, complexity, and faithful recreation of the historical naval rum experience.
Overall Impression:
Pusser's British Navy Gunpowder Proof Original Admiralty Rum is a must-have for serious rum collectors, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a bold, authentic, and exceptionally flavorful spirit. Its higher proof amplifies the beloved Pusser's characteristics, making it perfect for powerful classic cocktails like the Painkiller (it's the only authentic choice!), a robust Old Fashioned, or for enjoying neat or with a single ice cube to savor its historical depth and concentrated richness. It's truly a taste of the Royal Navy's legacy, bottled at fighting strength.
