What is 'Grog'? It might be a Fijians Favourite tipple buts what is the Royal navy Connection?

Grog is a historical alcoholic beverage that was popular in the British Royal Navy from the 18th century until the mid-20th century. It was typically made by mixing rum with water, sugar, and lime or lemon juice. Originating from the Navy serving in the Caribbean.

The origin of grog is attributed to Admiral Edward Vernon, who ordered his sailors to dilute their rum rations with water in 1740 to reduce drunkenness and maintain discipline. The mixture was named after Vernon, who was known as "Old Grog" because he wore a grogram cloak.

In addition to reducing drunkenness, grog had other practical benefits for sailors. The lime or lemon juice helped prevent scurvy, a disease caused by a lack of vitamin C, and the diluted rum was less likely to spoil or evaporate during long sea voyages.

The Royal Navy adopted grog as its official drink in 1780, and the recipe was standardized to include one part rum, two parts water, a quarter part lime juice, and sugar to taste. The rum was also "proofed" to ensure it was the proper strength for consumption - the term "proof" refers to the practice of testing the alcohol content of rum by igniting gunpowder soaked in it; if the gunpowder burned steadily, the rum was considered "proof."

The term "gunfire" may have come from the practice of igniting the rum in grog, similar to the way it was done in the "gunfire" drink served in World War I.

Over time, variations of grog emerged, with some sailors adding spices or other flavourings to the mixture. Today, grog is still sometimes consumed as a traditional drink in naval ceremonies and events, although it is no longer a standard ration in the Royal Navy.

Here's a simple grog recipe that is similar to the original recipe used in the British Royal Navy:

Ingredients:
- 1 oz. rum
- 2 oz. water
- 1/4 oz. lime juice
- Sugar to taste

Instructions:
1. In a glass or mug, mix together the rum, water, and lime juice.
2. Add sugar to taste and stir until it is fully dissolved.
3. Optionally, garnish with a lime wedge or slice.

As for a grog story, there are many tales and legends associated with this drink. One of the most famous involves Admiral Horatio Nelson, a celebrated British naval commander who served during the Napoleonic Wars. Nelson was known for his love of grog and was said to have used it as a strategic tool to motivate his crew.

According to legend, during the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, Nelson ordered his sailors to be served a double ration of grog to bolster their morale and prepare them for the coming fight. The tactic was successful, and the British fleet emerged victorious, but Nelson was mortally wounded in the battle.

In terms of grog rhymes, there are many that have been passed down over the years. One of the most famous goes like this:

"Yo ho ho and a bottle of rum!
A sailor's drink, it's never hum-drum.
With lime and water and sugar and more,
Grog is a drink that sailors adore."

Overall, grog has a rich history and is closely intertwined with naval culture and tradition. Whether you enjoy it as a tasty cocktail or as a nod to history, grog is a drink that has stood the test of time.

The rum ration, which was commonly known as the "tot" or "grog ration" in the British Royal Navy, was officially abolished on July 31, 1970.

There were several reasons for this decision. One was concern over alcohol abuse and its effects on crew members' health and performance. Another was a desire to modernize the Navy and align it with the changing social norms of the time.

In the years leading up to the abolition of the rum ration, there were also incidents of drunkenness and other alcohol-related problems aboard Navy vessels. In one notable incident in 1967, a sailor aboard the HMS Sheffield accidentally started a fire while drunk, resulting in the deaths of two crew members.

Despite these concerns, the abolition of the rum ration was not without controversy. Many sailors felt that the tot was an important part of naval tradition and a way to boost morale during long voyages. Some even staged protests and strikes in response to the decision to end the rum ration.

Today, alcohol is still allowed aboard Navy vessels, but it is subject to strict regulations and controls. The Navy has implemented policies and programs to promote responsible drinking and prevent alcohol-related incidents.