Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum was founded as an extension of a line of "Sailor Jerry's" tattoo and clothing business inspired by Norman "Sailor Jerry" Collins from the 1950s--lifestyle that includes car enthusiasts, motorcycle enthusiasts, and butchers along with rockers, skateboarders, and tattoo-enthusiasts (to name a few). The rum was launched with the partnership of William Grant & Sons, who eventually bought the brand in 2008 after its surge in popularity, though Philadelphia-based Sailor Jerry Limited is quick to point out: "it’s still the same group of original people here in Philadelphia, just now we have the support to really spread the word and ensure that Jerry’s legacy will continue to grow in trusted, concerned hands." In an interview with the Tasting Panel Magazine (June 2012), Rachel Furman called it a "true lifestyle brand"

The 2011 Wine Enthusiast review helpfully noted that it was "A good foil for drinks with sweeter ingredients." In our opinion, an important item to note in a world consumed by overly sweet cocktails!

Sailor Jerry Rum was named Best Flavored Rum in the 2013 San Francisco World Spirits Competition (in a field of 15 flavored rums). 

Note: we often get comments and exclamations of surprise over the high ranking of this particular rum. To us, this indicates some peculiarities in traditional spirits and a history of how they're "supposed" to taste versus the newer spiced rum category, which has little history or known standard of any kind. See our full thoughts on the subject.