The Philip Duff Show #120, Alexandre Gabriel & Matt Pietrek, authors of “The Rum Never Sets”, a history of naval rum (collab dual-cast with The Speakeasy podcast) 28 July 2025
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Jul 28, 2025 
In this lively conversation, Alexandre Gabriel, master distiller at Maison Ferrand, and Matt Pietrek, a spirits author and publisher, delve into the fascinating world of naval rum. They share Alexandre's unique journey from cognac to rum blending and explore the rich history behind their book, "The Rum Never Sets." The duo discusses the vital role of rum in sailors' lives, debunking myths along the way, and reflects on rum's legacy in naval history, including amusing anecdotes and the evolution of rum recipes. It's a spirited dive into history and culture!
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What 'Navy Strength' Historically Meant
- "Navy strength" historically referred to a UK proof baseline (57% proof), not a fixed ABV like 57% ABV.
- Royal Navy deliberately issued rum under that proof so it would not burn and risk fires aboard wooden ships.
Testing The 'Light Your Rum' Myth
- Philip Duff recounts Wayne Curtis's live demonstration that ignited gunpowder doused with rum and set off alarms, proving the 'light your rum' test myth false.
- Matt Pietrek and Alexandre Gabriel also remember doing related experiments in France with dramatic props like a shotgun shell.
Alcohol as Practical Ship Provisions
- Navies issued alcoholic provisions because water spoiled in wooden barrels and alcohol preserved fluids longer.
- Beer and wine usually were consumed first, then stronger distilled spirits like rum served later on long voyages.
