OUR STORY
2015
A Vision Takes Shape
In 2015, Garrett Robinson and Derek Schwarz found themselves in a bustling whiskey bar, surrounded by hundreds of bottles of Single Malt Scotch and Bourbon. Amid the lively atmosphere, they outlined a bold vision: to introduce pot-distilled rum, aged in premium wine barrels, to the mainland United States. Their complementary skills made the partnership seamless. Garrett, an industry veteran, brought expertise in brewing, distilling, and barrel-aging fine spirits, while Derek, a mechanical engineer with a meticulous eye for detail, had a gift for transforming ambitious ideas into reality.
2017
Hurricane Maria / The Winds of Change
Their plans took an unexpected turn in 2017 when Hurricane Maria devastated much of Puerto Rico, the homeland of Derek's mother, family, and his grandfather's agricultural farm in the mountains of Sabana Grande. In response, Derek and Garrett shifted their focus - working tirelessly to install wind- and solar-powered systems to restore electricity to communities in desperate need. This transformative experience deepened their connection to the island and inspired them to pursue their dream of Scryer Rum in Puerto Rico, setting up operations on Derek's family farm in the mountains of Southern Puerto Rico.
2018
From Ruins to Rum
By 2018, Scryer Rum had found its permanent home on historic Calle Tetuan, a vibrant, port-facing street in Old San Juan steeped in Prohibition-era lore. Building #259 - a former punk-rock venue known for its rebellious spirit - had the makings of a beautiful flagship for our rum, but the space had been ravaged by Hurricane Maria a year earlier. Garrett and Derek began the painstaking process of clearing debris and rebuilding the venue, piece by piece, with their own hands.
2019 - Present
Building a Legacy
Today the once-tattered halls of #259 have come back to life. Barrels of rum line the walls, the air is filled with the promise of great spirits, and the space hums with the excitement of new friends and family. After five years of unwavering passion and dedication, we’re proud to welcome you to Scryer Rum. Join us in raising a glass to tradition, resilience, and the vibrant spirit of Puerto Rico. Cheers!
2024 - Present
Progress Marches On
In August of 2024, we opened our newest Barrelhouse in Rio Piedras. Located at 107 Avenida Universidad, the Scryer Rum Cafe & Barrelhouse caters to young professionals of Hato Rey and ambitious students of the prestigious University of Puerto Rico. The new space serves as our largest production facility and a space for Puerto Rico’s brightest minds to collaborate on their newest, groundbreaking ideas. Salud!