The early blend of Navy Rum was more art than science. The raw rum derived from the contributing stills was stocked in barrels between 160 and 180 proof, too strong to be palatable so dilution after blending was required. The ship’s crew relied on its purser to blend, test, and issue the finished rum at proof. The purser, often referred to as “pusser”, would mix the raw rum with water and add a few black gunpowder grains. If the mixture failed to ignite in the sunlight, the purser would be mocked for watering the rum. With a long and surprisingly smooth finish despite its high alcohol content, Pusser’s Rum has a full, round body and a rich aroma of molasses, toffee and honey, with mild notes of vanilla. The rich flavour of Pusser’s Rum is all natural as no artificial flavourings and colourings are added.