Planteray celebrates 300 years of navy rum
Alexandre Gabriel, the owner and master blender of Planteray, has released a book on navy rum, co-authored with spirits historian Matt Pietrek.
After five years of research, the duo has released The Rum Never Sets: 300 Years of Royal Navy & London Dock Rum, a comprehensive examination of the evolution of navy rum from its naval traditions to its status as a ‘cultural icon’.
The book is described as ‘the first major work’ dedicated entirely to navy-style rum.
To accompany the launch, Planteray has introduced Mister Fogg Sail No2, a navy-style rum crafted using the knowledge gained from the book.
Inspired by the personal story of Royal Navy veteran Michael Fogg, Gabriel and Pietrek dove into the history of the spirit and visited archives and libraries, going through naval records spanning centuries.
The authors documented their journey by exploring various techniques and blending methods, as well as the vibrant culture surrounding Royal Navy and London Dock rum.
The book combines thorough research, technical insights, and engaging storytelling to delve into the origins, evolution, and enduring cultural significance of Navy Rum. It covers everything from its use as daily naval rations to its influence on the contemporary rum industry.
The Rum Never Sets will be available in the US from July and across Europe from October 2025 for £27 (US$36).
To celebrate the release of Sail No2 and The Rum Never Sets, Gabriel will embark on a Navy Rum Tour across Europe in autumn 2025.
The tour will include masterclasses, tastings, and interactive sessions aimed at exploring the legacy of navy rum while also celebrating the creative techniques and stories behind the spirit.
Mister Fogg Sail No2
The new expression follows the release of Mister Fogg Sail No1, released last year.
The second release in the series is said to deepen Planteray’s exploration of authentic navy rum through historical techniques and ‘creative’ ageing.
To create Mister Fogg Sail No2, the rum was first aged in ex-Bourbon barrels in the Caribbean. It was then shipped across the Atlantic for further ageing at sea, mirroring how rations were once transported on Royal Navy vessels.
Upon arrival in southwest France, the rum was matured further in seasoned oak barrels and large open wooden vats near the river L’Antenne.
The process is said to replicate the cool, humid conditions of the London docks, where navy rum was traditionally finished.
Offered at 55.7% ABV, the traditional navy strength, Planteray Mister Fogg Sail No2 features notes of molasses, dark chocolate, vanilla, dried fruits and warming spices.
The new limited edition expression has a suggested retail price of US$39.99 (€49.99).
Earlier this year, Planteray unveiled the final edition in its Terravera collection, Trinidad 2003, and introduced its Sealander expression to the US market for the first time.
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