Dead Man’s Fingers Spiced Rum — A Cornish Classic Bursting with Buttery Caramel
Dead Man’s Fingers Spiced Rum is a daring and inventive spirit born on the rugged Cornish coast at the Rum and Crab Shack in St. Ives. This 70 cl bottle captures the essence of seaside simplicity paired with exotic flair: a blend of premium rums infused with warming spices, creamy caramel, and hints of orange. At 35% ABV, it offers a smooth yet complex drinking experience that delights whether sipped neat, enjoyed in inventive cocktails, or paired with seasonal desserts.
A Cornish Origin Story
Dead Man’s Fingers was conceived in 2014 by Paul John and Ed Smith, who were inspired by Cornwall’s vibrant fishing heritage and the laid‑back atmosphere of their local crab shack. They began experimenting with Jamaican and Guyanese rums, combining them with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. The result was an approachable yet full‑flavored spiced rum, perfectly suited to Cornwall’s maritime setting.
Intriguing Flavor Profile
What makes Dead Man’s Fingers Spiced Rum stand out is its buttery caramel backbone, seamlessly layered with exotic spices and fruit notes:
- Buttery Caramel & Vanilla: The initial palate greets you with creamy, luscious caramel and soft vanilla, reminiscent of homemade toffee and custard desserts.
- Subtle Orange & Saffron Cake: A delicate citrus brightness underpins the sweetness, evoking the tang of orange rind. Connoisseurs may also detect a gentle saffron cake nuance—an unexpected nod to Cornish saffron buns.
- Warm Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg bring comforting warmth, balanced by a whisper of ginger’s zing.
- Pedro Ximénez Ice Cream: Rich raisin‑like sweetness from sherry barrels imparts a dark fruit character, akin to drizzling Pedro Ximénez over vanilla ice cream.
This interplay of sweet, spicy, and fruity elements creates an indulgent yet balanced spirit that rewards slow sipping and creative mixing alike.
Handcrafted Production Techniques
Dead Man’s Fingers Spiced Rum begins with a blend of Caribbean rums aged in ex‑bourbon barrels. After selection, the base rum is macerated with natural spices, vanilla pods, and orange peel, then gently filtered to preserve character. This handcrafted approach ensures each batch maintains consistent depth and complexity, embodying the Cornish spirit of craftsmanship and innovation.
Signature Serve: The Bloody Death
Perhaps the most iconic way to enjoy Dead Man’s Fingers Spiced Rum is in its house cocktail, The Bloody Death:
- 50 ml Dead Man’s Fingers Spiced Rum
- 90 ml Tomato Juice
- 10 ml Cranberry Juice
- 10 ml Lemon Juice
- 10 ml Worcestershire Sauce
- Pinch of Sea Salt
Garnish: Lemon wedge, cucumber wedge, twist of black pepper.
Method: Build all ingredients in a tall glass over ice, stir gently, and garnish. The Bloody Death perfectly balances the rum’s caramel warmth with tangy tomato, citrus brightness, and savory depth—a bold, savory spritz that’s both invigorating and comforting.
Versatile Serving Ideas
Dead Man’s Fingers Spiced Rum is equally delightful in a range of serves:
- Neat or Over Ice: Experience the full buttery caramel and spice profile.
- Spiced Rum & Cola: A simple highball that highlights vanilla and cinnamon notes.
- Rum-Old Fashioned: Muddle a sugar cube with bitters, add 50 ml Dead Man’s Fingers, stir with ice, and garnish with an orange twist.
- Caramel Coffee: Add a shot of spiced rum to fresh coffee, top with whipped cream, and sprinkle nutmeg for a boozy twist on the classic Irish coffee.
Pairing with Food
The rum’s rich character pairs wonderfully with:
- Chocolate Desserts: Intensify the caramel and vanilla by serving alongside brownies or crème brûlée.
- Spiced Cakes: Cornish saffron buns or gingerbread complement the rum’s fruity‑spice notes.
- Cheese Board: Sharp Cheddar or blue cheese contrast beautifully with the rum’s sweetness.
- Seafood: The maritime heritage shines when sipping alongside crab cakes or grilled prawns—linking back to its Rum and Crab Shack roots.
Perfect for Gifting and Celebrations
Each 70 cl bottle of Dead Man’s Fingers Spiced Rum features distinct skull‑and‑crossbones branding, reflecting its playful yet bold personality. It makes an eye‑catching gift for rum enthusiasts, cocktail lovers, or anyone who appreciates Cornish creativity. Available individually or in packs, it’s ideal for birthdays, holidays, or themed gatherings.
Sustainability and Community
Dead Man’s Fingers partners with local suppliers in Cornwall and the Caribbean to ensure responsible sourcing. By supporting small‑batch producers and sustainable agriculture, the brand maintains a commitment to quality, ethical practice, and community engagement—a true reflection of Cornwall’s spirit of kinship and innovation.