The tiki drink called “There’s Always Money in the Banana Stand” is a unique and creative cocktail that combines unconventional ingredients to deliver a distinctive flavor experience. Created by Zac Overman, this cocktail features a blend of peated Scotch, lemon juice, banana liqueur, cinnamon syrup, yellow Chartreuse, and pimento dram, resulting in a complex and intriguing taste profile that sets it apart from traditional tiki drinks.
The Inspiration Behind the Cocktail
Zac Overman, the mastermind behind this innovative cocktail, drew inspiration from the idea of bananas flambé, with the combination of smoke and banana flavors making perfect sense to him. The addition of cinnamon and allspice seemed like a natural pairing with the banana, while the Chartreuse provided a subtle herbal lift and an element of intrigue that the drink needed. The cocktail’s name is a playful nod to George Sr.’s famous Banana Stand from the popular TV show Arrested Development, adding a touch of humor and quirkiness to the overall concept.
A Unique Blend of Ingredients
What makes “There’s Always Money in the Banana Stand” stand out from other tiki cocktails is its unusual combination of ingredients. The use of peated Scotch as a counterpoint to the rich, sweet flavors commonly found in tiki drinks is a bold move that pays off in terms of complexity and depth. The banana liqueur, cinnamon syrup, and pimento dram work in harmony to create a lush, spicy, and slightly funky base, while the lemon juice provides a bright, citrusy kick that balances out the sweetness. The yellow Chartreuse adds a subtle herbal note that elevates the drink to new heights.
The Recipe
To make “There’s Always Money in the Banana Stand” at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1½ oz peated Scotch
- 1 oz lemon juice
- ¾ oz banana liqueur
- ½ oz cinnamon syrup (1:1)
- ¼ oz yellow Chartreuse
- 4 dashes pimento dram
To assemble the cocktail, start by wrapping a banana leaf around the inside of a Collins glass, then fill it halfway with crushed ice. In a shaker, combine all the ingredients with crushed ice and shake well. Pour the mixture into the prepared glass and garnish with grated cinnamon, a cinnamon stick, and a gold coin if available.
Variations and Adaptations
Some adventurous cocktail enthusiasts have taken the liberty of putting their own spin on “There’s Always Money in the Banana Stand” by substituting certain ingredients. One notable variation involves replacing the yellow Chartreuse with Arak Muaddi, a Middle Eastern anise-flavored spirit, which adds a more pronounced anise note to the drink. This demonstrates the versatility of the original recipe and encourages experimentation among home bartenders.
The Verdict
In conclusion, “There’s Always Money in the Banana Stand” is a tiki cocktail that pushes the boundaries of traditional tiki flavors, combining unexpected ingredients to create a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable drinking experience. Its creativity, complexity, and whimsical nature have earned it a place in the hearts of many cocktail enthusiasts, cementing its status as a modern classic in the world of tiki drinks.
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