Grog

Ahoy, Old Grog!

Before Vice Admiral William Penn Sr. (captured Jamaica in 1655) discovered rum, sailors would cut their fetid water with beer or wine to improve the flavor, and kill germs. But since neither was to be found on the island, Penn replaced the sailor’s rations with rum.

As these rations were so strong, another Royal Navy Officer, Vice Admiral Edward Vernon, later declared that they should be diluted with water, adding sugar and lime, to make the mix a bit more palatable and avoid drunken sailors onboard.

The strong cocktail (and remedy) takes its name from Vice Admiral Edward Vernon, also called "Old Grog" by the sailors, for his waterproof cloak made from grogam, a fabric of silk mixed with wool, or mohair.

Ingredients (serves 1)

• the juice of half a lemon

• 2 tsp fresh grated ginger

• 1 shot amber rhum

• 1 tsp honey

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• a pinch turmeric

• 250ml boiling water

Method

• Place all the ingredients in a teapot, pouring the boiling water last

• Mix and drink warm