One of those cocktails that has so many variations that it is rare to find two recipes that are exactly alike is navy grog. Due to the presence of a number of ingredients, the drink is likely to have a flavor that is quite distinct. There were things that were missed, added, misinterpreted, or simply personalized as the drink was passed from bartender to bartender. As its name implies, it was created by British sailors for refreshment. Aside from providing vitamins to help with scurvy, it was a means for enhancing and preserving the water stored on the ship. Usually made with rum, honey or molasses, lemon, cinnamon, and water, this grog has been around since the early 1700s. Cold or hot, it was served both ways. It was the tiki bar scene in the 1940s that first gave rise to the popular recipe for navy grog. Don Beach is credited with being the first to start mixing up the deck. In addition to Trader Vic, the cocktail has been claimed by him since 1858. These recipes are both listed here, but Don the Beachcomber’s is the first one to appear. Find out which one you like best by trying them all.
Tip
Simple watered-down honey can easily be added to drinks, whereas honey syrup is simply honey that has been diluted down. It is made by mixing equal parts of honey and water, mixing until an even consistency is achieved.
