The Pampanito is a refreshing and unique tiki drink that pays homage to the rich flavors of Jamaica. Created by Martin Cate after a trip to the island nation, this cocktail draws inspiration from the traditional use of molasses in Jamaican cuisine and the influence of Joy Spence, the master blender at Appleton Rum.
The Story Behind the Pampanito
During his visit to Jamaica, Martin Cate had the opportunity to meet with Joy Spence, who shared her insights on the use of wet sugar, or molasses, in Jamaican cooking and beverages. She mentioned that Jamaicans often make lemonade using a rich molasses syrup, sometimes adding a splash of rum for an extra kick. This conversation sparked the idea for the Pampanito, a tiki drink that incorporates the traditional Jamaican flavors of molasses and allspice.
A Nod to the USS Pampanito
The name “Pampanito” comes from the USS Pampanito, a submarine that is now docked in San Francisco as a museum ship. While the connection between the submarine and the drink may not be immediately apparent, it adds an interesting layer of history to the cocktail’s story.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
The Pampanito is known for its fresh and tart flavor profile, which is achieved through a carefully balanced combination of ingredients. The lemon juice provides a bright acidity, while the molasses syrup adds depth and a subtle sweetness. The allspice dram contributes a warm, spicy note, and the black rum serves as the backbone of the drink. A dash of Angostura bitters helps to tie all the flavors together, and the sparkling water lengthens the cocktail, making it a refreshing and easy-to-sip beverage.
How to Make the Pampanito
To make the Pampanito, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 fl oz Lemon Juice
- 1 fl oz Molasses Syrup
- 1½ tsp Allspice Dram
- 1½ fl oz Black Rum
- 1 dash Angostura Bitters
- 2½ fl oz Sparkling Water
- 1 piece Lemon Twist (for garnish)
To prepare the drink, simply combine all the ingredients except for the sparkling water in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with fresh ice. Top with sparkling water and garnish with a lemon twist.
A Taste of Jamaica in Every Sip
The Pampanito is a testament to the rich culinary and beverage traditions of Jamaica, as well as the creativity and ingenuity of modern mixologists like Martin Cate. By combining traditional flavors with contemporary techniques and presentation, the Pampanito offers a unique and memorable tiki drink experience that transports you to the sunny shores of Jamaica with every sip.
