Rum Swizzle: Exploring The History Of Bermuda’s National Drink

The paradise island of Bermuda is famed for its colourful coral reefs, stunning pink sand beaches, and rich cultural heritage. The island haven also boasts an enthralling food and drink scene, with fish chowder and fried fish sandwich being amongst its staples.

When it comes to drinks, the insatiable rum swizzle has risen to claim the crown of the country’s top beverage. This drink is deeply tied to Bermuda’s history, and its rapid evolution is reflective of the country’s varied heritage and seafaring traditions.

Bermuda as well as the Caribbean region as a whole, has a storied history of rum production. Therefore, it is natural that the national drink of Bermuda, the rum swizzle, heavily features rum.

Rum is also the island nation’s top export, with much of the sugarcane needed for rum production imported from other countries. Bermudan rum is revered the world over for its refreshing taste and flavour; the rum’s richness is derived from the special double distillation method, which infuses it with an original and an unforgettable taste profile.

Here’s a sneak peek at the different aspects of the rum swizzle.

When Did This Drink Originate?

The rum swizzle dates back to the 18th century when sailors journeyed across the Bermudan seas. The name of the cocktail is believed to have been derived from a colloquial phrase, “swizzle stick,” which means a device used to blend and cool drinks. The initial iterations of this cocktail were quite simple-they comprised local rum and water.

The drink was later innovated to include the local produce of Bermuda, including ingredients, such as citrus juices and sugar. These elements helped craft a revitalising drink for sailors seeking refuge during their frequently stormy expeditions.