Cruzan, St. Croix rum from the Nelthropp family, is taking its newest expression and using money from its sales to help fund hurricane relief efforts.

The distillery has gone about it in a big way, with a product whose name will resonate with anyone living in areas affected by destructive hurricanes.

Cruzan Hurricane Proof Rum is bottled at 137 proof, in acknowledgement of wind speeds from a Category 5 hurricane.

As part of Cruzan’s continued dedication to contributing to the Island Spirit Fund — established earlier this year — Cruzan Rum will donate $1 per case of Hurricane Proof sold, the distiller says.

“Every bottle purchased will provide aid and support to communities in need in the U.S. Virgin Islands and beyond,” a news release says.

The Cruzan Rum distillery, according to a story by The Spirits Business, suspended operations for three weeks after Hurricane Maria.

The rum is named in tribute to the resilience of the Crucians, or those who hail from our home island of St. Croix, as they’ve rebuilt and renewed following the devastation of last year’s hurricanes Maria and Irma.

"We're proud to introduce Cruzan Hurricane Proof just in time for the giving season as a way to drink well and give back," said Gary Nelthropp, Cruzan Rum's master distiller.

The rum, which the distiller graciously gave me for this review, is sweet on the nose and entirely drinkable with a cube of ice. The distiller suggests using the rum in cocktails, for which it will especially hold strong. The rum is about $20 for a 750ml bottle.

And here’s a suggested recipe:

Cruzan Hurricane Hot Toddy

• Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ parts Cruzan® Dark Rum

  • ½ part Cruzan® Hurricane Proof™ Rum

  • ½ part lemon juice

  • ½ part cane syrup

  • 1 dash Angostura bitters

  • Hot water

• Method:

  • Prepare a mug by rinsing it with boiling water and pouring the water out.

  • Add the cane syrup and hot water and stir until dissolved.

  • Add remaining ingredients and more hot water and stir gently to combine.