For centuries, the shrill sound of a bosun’s pipe and a shout of ‘up spirits’ would be heard on board Royal Navy ships as sailors lined up for their daily tot of rum. This is a rich and fascinating part of spirits history, so whether you’re a rum aficionado or just interested in learning more about the Royal Rum, this is a book to take on board.
Royal Rum: The Pinnacle of Rum Craftsmanship
In order to bolster the economies of England’s sugar producing islands and also compete with French sugar and spirits, laws were passed that allowed for the distillation of rum within the colonies. This gave rise to a very special relationship between rum and the Royal Navy; it became the spirit of choice, and was even used as an antiseptic. It also gave rise to a few famous traditions, like the concept of proof and the order to splice the mainbrace.
For over three centuries, the Royal Navy’s love affair with rum played a vital role in the day-to-day operations of naval vessels. But it wasn’t until 31 July 1970, dubbed “Black Tot Day”, that the final daily ration was poured and consumed, marking the end of an era.