Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Classic Rum Cocktails Evoke thoughts of the Tropicana and Carmen Miranda


     The classic rum drinks, mojitos, daiquiris and Cuba Libras, are having an exciting renaissance.   After a visit to the Tropicana just outside of Havana last year, I got the feeling that rum and the classics are coming back.  “RUM is not a blank slate. It's a spirit that offers plenty of character and personality. Nonetheless, white and amber rums are known as cocktail ingredients, married with everything that Carmen Miranda can offer.”  While enjoying the show at the Tropicana, I was waiting for Carmen Miranda to step out and offer me a fruity cocktail with a wonderful Cuban flavor.

    The more that I experiment with new ideas, the more that I find the classic base cocktails to be the best starting point for new cocktails.  The classic idea of “something strong, something weak, something sour and something sweet” are the real basis for some of the best cocktails.  

Bahama Bob’s Plantation Daiquiri

·        2 oz.  Plantation Grand Reserve Rum

·        2 oz.  Pierre Ferrand Dry Curacao

·        Juice of ½ Lime

·        Dash of Bitters

Combine all ingredients in a tall shaker filled with ice.   Pour into an ice-filled old-fashioned glass and garnish with an orange twist.