of its most popular brand of rum, Black Seal.

But the many Bermudians who favour the dark blend need not panic.

Gosling's vice president Mr. Charles Gosling said bars and liquor stores all seemed to have enough Black Seal to last until the missing ingredients arrive.

Mr. Gosling said the shortage was not the result of increased consumption by locals trying to keep in the spirit of the Cup Match holiday.

"I wish it were,'' he said.

Mr. Gosling blamed shipping schedules this month for the dearth.

He added: "We are out of stock of a number of items routinely throughout the year, this is just one of those times.'' While Mr. Gosling said it was only some sizes of Black Seal that the Hamilton warehouse was out of, an employee said it was "out of everything''.

Nevertheless, Gosling Brothers liquor store on Front Street reported its shelves were all fully stocked with Black Seal.

"We've got plenty,'' a store clerk said.

Mr. Gosling said the rum was "100-percent made in Bermuda'', being blended and bottled on the Island.