Wood’s Old Navy Rum Export Strength, naval rum with historic character
Wood’s Old Navy Rum Export Strength is a navy-style rum that keeps alive a classic way of understanding this spirit. An intense, dark and highly characterful expression, inspired by the blends that accompanied the British Royal Navy for decades.
At Licorea, we see this rum as a very clear choice for those seeking authenticity and strength. It is not a smooth or easy-going rum. It is direct, powerful and true to the traditional Demerara profile.
A brand with history since 1887
Wood’s dates back to 1887 and forms part of the historic heritage of British navy rum. Since 2002 it has been owned by William Grant & Sons, maintaining its identity and its recipe inspired by the rums once supplied to the Royal Navy.
The mention “Original Navy Recipe” refers to this classic style, although historical blends varied depending on the availability of rums at different times. What remained constant was the presence of Demerara rums from Guyana, a defining feature that Wood’s still preserves today.
Origin in Guyana and ageing in Scotland
Wood’s Old Navy Rum is distilled at the Diamond Distillery in Guyana, one of the few distilleries in the world that still uses historic wooden stills. Part of the rum comes from the legendary Versailles single wooden pot still, giving it a highly distinctive profile.
The rum is made from molasses and is a blend of three different rums. It is then shipped to Scotland, where it is aged for up to three years in ex-bourbon casks. This process combines the tropical character of its origin with a more controlled maturation in a temperate climate.
It is bottled at 57% vol., the classic navy strength, and displays a deep dark colour, enhanced with caramel, as was customary for this style of rum.
How to enjoy Wood’s Old Navy Rum
This rum is meant to be enjoyed with respect. It can be sipped neat, in small quantities, to fully appreciate its power and classic profile.
It is also an excellent base for tiki-style or classic cocktails that require a full-bodied, high-strength rum, such as a Navy Grog or a traditional Punch.
Its intensity makes it particularly appealing to fans of Demerara rums and high-proof spirits.
An authentic navy rum with no compromises
Within the category of navy strength rum, Wood’s Old Navy Rum Export Strength stands out for its faithfulness to the historic style. It does not aim to soften or modernise its profile, but to preserve a clear and recognisable identity.
At Licorea, we recommend it to those who value intense rums with history and character, and to anyone looking to discover a classic expression of Demerara rum.
A rum with strength, tradition and a personality that leaves no one indifferent.
