The Rum Julep is a classic Tiki cocktail that has captured the hearts of many with its unique blend of flavors. This tropical delight is a deviation from the traditional Julep, more akin to a punch, and is often referred to as a Tiki-wolf in sheep’s clothing. The recipe for this captivating cocktail is based on the information provided by Jeff Berry’s Tiki-almanac “Beachbum Berry’s Sippin’ Safari”, which presents new and classic cocktails in the style of Polynesian pop art.
The Origins of the Rum Julep
The Rum Julep draws its inspiration from the godfather of Tiki, Ernest Gantt, also known as Don the Beachcomber. Gantt created this drink in the 1940s and served it in his Cabaret Restaurant in Honolulu, Hawaii from 1958 onwards. The rums indicated in the recipe correspond to the specifications of the original recipe, allowing enthusiasts to recreate the authentic taste of this classic cocktail.
Ingredients for the Perfect Rum Julep
To create the perfect Rum Julep, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- ½ oz lime juice
- ½ oz orange juice
- ½ oz honey mix (a combination of water and honey in a 1:1 ratio)
- ½ oz Appleton Estate Extra Jamaican Rum
- 1 ½ oz Demerara Rum (such as the 5-year-old El Dorado)
- ¼ teaspoon grenadine
- ¼ teaspoon Falernum
- ¼ teaspoon Pimentlikör (such as The Bitter Truth Pimento Dram)
- 1 Dash Angostura Bitters
Preparing the Rum Julep
To prepare the Rum Julep, mix all ingredients with half a cup of crushed ice in an electronic blender. The longer you blend, the “slushier” it gets. Finally, pour everything into a silver cup and garnish with fresh mint. This preparation method allows for different styles, such as a slushie or with coarser crushed ice, catering to individual preferences.
A Tropical Delight
The Rum Julep is a unique and flavorful Tiki cocktail that offers a delightful blend of tropical flavors. The combination of various rums, falernum, lime, orange, allspice, grenadine, bitters, and honey creates a harmonious and refreshing taste that transports you to a tropical paradise. It’s no wonder that this cocktail has become a popular choice for those seeking an exotic drink experience.
Whether you’re a Tiki enthusiast or simply looking for a new and exciting cocktail to try, the Rum Julep is definitely worth exploring. So, grab your ingredients, blend them together, and enjoy the tropical flavors that this classic Tiki cocktail has to offer.
