From Gosling’s with Trademarked Love

The Dark ‘n Stormy cocktail roots trace back to the idyllic island of Bermuda, home to Goslings Rum. In the early 19th century, James Gosling, the eldest son of a wine and spirits merchant, set sail from England to America. Fate, however, had different plans, and after a becalmed journey, he landed in Bermuda. There, he set up shop and started what would become an iconic rum brand.

The Dark ‘n Stormy was born out of necessity and ingenuity. British sailors stationed in Bermuda would mix their ginger beer with Goslings Black Seal Rum to create a drink that was both refreshing and bracing—a perfect antidote to the tropical heat.

Goslings figured out with the old Dark ‘n Stormy there would be a demand in the market for a good ginger beer and now they make that too. That just makes good sense after all.

Trademark Tales

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. The Dark ‘n Stormy isn’t just an ordinary cocktail; it’s got it’s very own trademark. That’s right! Goslings went the extra nautical mile to protect their creation. The family-owned company trademarked the name “Dark ‘n Stormy,” ensuring that any drink bearing the name must be made with Goslings Black Seal Rum. It’s the only way to ensure you get the authentic taste of this Bermuda classic. So make sure you point this out to any and all servers when ordering.

This trademark move has led to some fascinating tales and a few legal skirmishes. Bars and restaurants that dare to serve a “Dark ‘n Stormy” with any other rum can expect a visit from the Goslings’ legal team. It’s a brilliant, albeit stormy, way to keep the brand’s legacy intact.

Fun Fact

The trademark for Dark ‘n Stormy was officially registered in the 1990s, but the drink itself has been a Bermuda staple since the early 20th century. It’s said that the drink’s ominous name was inspired by a sailor who remarked that the drink looked “the color of a cloud only a fool or a dead man would sail under.” And if you look at it, when you build this cocktail, he wasn’t wrong. It kind of looks like a storm in a glass.

Now it’s actually Bermuda’s national beverage – now that’s the kind of national policy I can get behind!

Legal Squalls: The Dark ‘n Stormy Courtroom Drama

In a move worthy of its tempestuous name, the Dark ‘n Stormy has seen its share of courtroom action. Goslings has been vigilant in protecting its trademark, even suing Pernod Ricard in 2015 over alleged trademark infringement. Pernod Ricard’s “Dark N’ Stormy” and “Black Stormy” cocktails, made with Malibu Rum, were too close for comfort for Goslings. The dispute highlighted just how seriously Goslings takes its legacy—and its recipes. They argued that using similar names would confuse customers and dilute the brand’s reputation. It’s clear that Goslings won’t let anyone sail too close to their rum-soaked trademark without a fight.

The Dark ‘n Stormy is a piece of Bermuda’s history and a testament to the enduring legacy of Goslings Rum. So my advice to you is next time you find yourself in the mood for something bold and bracing, mix up a Dark ‘n Stormy the right way—with Goslings Black Seal Rum. Cheers to a little bit of trademark drama! 🌧️🍹

Do you have any funny yarns to share about your Dark n’ Stormy legal wranglings? We’d love to hear all about them in the comments below!