International Dark ‘n Stormy Day
International Dark ‘n Stormy Day: A Celebration of Bermuda’s National Drink
International Dark ‘n Stormy Day is an annual celebration honoring the iconic cocktail that has become Bermuda’s national drink. This refreshing highball cocktail combines dark rum and ginger beer, served over ice and garnished with a slice of lime.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: June 9th annually
- Tagged as: Food & Drink, Drugs & Alcohol
- What’s the hashtag?: #DarknStormyDay
- When was it founded?: 2020
- Who founded it?: Gosling Brothers Ltd. in partnership with NationalToday.com
History of International Dark ‘n Stormy Day
The Dark ‘n Stormy cocktail originated in Bermuda just after World War I. It was created when British naval officers began mixing Gosling’s Black Seal rum with ginger beer, which they brewed to combat seasickness. The drink got its name from an old sailor who compared its murky color to that of a storm cloud.
Timeline
- 1806: James Gosling arrives in Bermuda and establishes a shop
- 1857: Gosling Brothers enter the rum production business
- 1860: The distinctive black rum later named Black Seal is created
- 1991: Gosling Brothers trademark “Dark ‘n Stormy” in the United States
- 2020: International Dark ‘n Stormy Day is established
International Dark ‘n Stormy Day Dates
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June 9 | Monday |
| 2026 | June 9 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | June 9 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | June 9 | Friday |
| 2029 | June 9 | Saturday |
| 2030 | June 9 | Sunday |
Observed International Dark ‘n Stormy Day
International Dark ‘n Stormy Day is celebrated annually on June 9th. This date marks the 40th anniversary of Gosling Brothers trademarking the Dark ‘n Stormy cocktail in 1980. The day serves as an opportunity for cocktail enthusiasts and rum lovers to come together and appreciate this iconic drink.
The celebration often involves bars and restaurants offering special promotions on Dark ‘n Stormy cocktails. Many people host parties or gatherings where they mix and enjoy the drink with friends and family. Some even experiment with variations of the classic recipe or incorporate the flavors into other dishes and desserts.
For sailing communities, where the Dark ‘n Stormy has long been a favorite, the day holds special significance. It’s not uncommon to find sailing clubs and marinas organizing events or competitions centered around the cocktail on this day.
Fun Facts About International Dark ‘n Stormy Day
- The Dark ‘n Stormy is one of the few cocktails whose name is trademarked.
- The original recipe specifically calls for Gosling’s Black Seal rum.
- The drink is said to resemble a storm cloud in a glass.
- Gosling’s has created a ready-to-drink canned version of the Dark ‘n Stormy.
- There’s even a Dark ‘n Stormy flavored ice cream for those who prefer their cocktails in frozen form.
Quiz
- What are the two main ingredients in a Dark ‘n Stormy?
- In which country did the Dark ‘n Stormy originate?
- What year was International Dark ‘n Stormy Day established?
- On what date is International Dark ‘n Stormy Day celebrated?
- Who trademarked the name “Dark ‘n Stormy”?
(Answers: 1. Dark rum and ginger beer, 2. Bermuda, 3. 2020, 4. June 9th, 5. Gosling Brothers Ltd.)
FAQs
Q: Can I make a Dark ‘n Stormy with any dark rum?
A: While you can mix dark rum and ginger beer, a true Dark ‘n Stormy specifically uses Gosling’s Black Seal rum due to trademark restrictions.
Q: Why is it called a Dark ‘n Stormy?
A: The name comes from the drink’s appearance, which resembles a storm cloud with the dark rum floating on top of the lighter ginger beer.
Q: Is the Dark ‘n Stormy Bermuda’s national drink?
A: Yes, the Dark ‘n Stormy is considered the national drink of Bermuda.
Q: How do you properly make a Dark ‘n Stormy?
A: Fill a highball glass with ice, add ginger beer, then float Gosling’s Black Seal rum on top. Garnish with a lime wedge.
Q: Are there any variations of the Dark ‘n Stormy?
A: While the traditional recipe is protected, people often create variations using different types of rum or adding ingredients like lime juice.
Importance of International Dark ‘n Stormy Day
International Dark ‘n Stormy Day serves as a celebration of Bermudian culture and history. It highlights the island’s rich rum-making tradition and its contribution to the world of cocktails. The day also brings attention to the importance of protecting intellectual property in the beverage industry, as exemplified by the trademarked status of the Dark ‘n Stormy.
For many, this day is an opportunity to explore and appreciate the art of cocktail making. It encourages people to learn about the origins of their favorite drinks and the stories behind them. The Dark ‘n Stormy, with its simple yet perfectly balanced combination of flavors, serves as an excellent introduction to the world of cocktails.
Moreover, International Dark ‘n Stormy Day fosters a sense of community among cocktail enthusiasts, bartenders, and rum aficionados. It provides a shared experience that brings people together, whether they’re enjoying the drink at a bar, hosting a party, or simply raising a glass with friends.
Related
- World Cocktail Day
- National Rum Day
- International Beer Day
- World Bartender Day
- National Liqueur Day