Bahama Bob’s “Rhum Brooklyn”

     Taking an old classic recipe based around rye whiskey and converting it to a rhum cocktail requires an understanding of both spirits.  The Clément Rhum Vieux Select Barrel has a spiciness and fruity flavor similar to rye whiskey, but a purer flavor that brings the cocktail to life.   I really enjoy recreating classic cocktails that were originally based on some form of whiskey to rum or rhum, they most always have a richer and more full bodied clean flavor.  

     The unusual combination of ingredients, make this cocktail one that offers a complex and moderately dry drink that is best enjoyed in the evening.   It resembles a Manhattan, but with the addition of Maraschino liqueur and bitters. It largely fell into obscurity after the end of Prohibition, but it experienced a resurgence in the 1990’s.   Today it is again slipped into obscurity again, but none the less a very fine cocktail.   The Bahama Bob’s Rhum Brooklyn is a cocktail that lets the Rhum Agricole carry the load of the cocktail.   In a Manhattan the sweet vermouth is the prominent character, here the dry vermouth takes a more subtle role behind the dominant rhum agricole flavors.   The Luxardo Maraschino and Angostura Bitters roll in after the initial spice and fruitiness of the Clément Rhum Vieux Select Barrel and provide a lovely mixture of aromatics, and an unmistakable cherry and fruit funk.

   Bahama Bob’s “Rhum Brooklyn”

• 3 oz.  Clément Rhum Vieux Select Barrel
• 3/4  oz.  Dry Vermouth
• 1/4 oz.  Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur
• 1/4 oz.  Angostura Bitters

     Combine ingredients with ice and shake until well-chilled.  Strain      into a chilled cocktail glass.  Garnish with an Orange Twist.