The tiki drink called “Three Dots and a Dash” is a classic cocktail with a rich history and a complex, flavorful profile. It was originally created by Donn Beach during World War II and has since become an essential part of the Tiki bartending canon. The name “Three Dots and a Dash” refers to the morse code for the letter V, which stood for “victory” for the Allies in their fight against the Axis.
The recipe for the Three Dots and a Dash cocktail typically includes a mix of different rums, such as rhum agricole and blended, aged rum, along with falernum, allspice dram, honey syrup, lime juice, orange juice, and Angostura bitters. The syrups used in the cocktail include St. Elizabeth allspice dram for complexity and baking spice notes, John D. Taylor’s Velvet Falernum for rich nuttiness, and honey syrup for added sweetness. The cocktail is garnished with three cherries on a pick, representing the three dots, and either a pineapple chunk or a pineapple frond, representing the dash.
Ingredients
- 2 oz dark rum (such as rhum agricole and blended, aged rum)
- 1/2 oz falernum
- 1/2 oz allspice dram
- 1/2 oz honey syrup
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- 1/2 oz orange juice
- 1 dash Angostura bitters
- Garnish: 3 cherries on a pick and a pineapple chunk or frond
Preparation
- Add the rhum agricole, blended rum, falernum, allspice dram, honey syrup, lime juice, orange juice, and bitters to a drink mixer tin.
- Fill with 12 ounces of crushed ice and 4 to 6 small “agitator” cubes.
- Flash-blend, then pour into a footed pilsner glass, straining out any large chunks of ice, and add the garnish.
A Beloved Classic
The Three Dots and a Dash cocktail is known for its complex and refreshing flavor profile, making it a beloved classic in the world of Tiki cocktails. Its unique combination of rums, spices, and citrus flavors creates a harmonious balance that transports the drinker to a tropical paradise.
The Legacy of Donn Beach
The creation of the Three Dots and a Dash cocktail is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of Donn Beach, one of the pioneers of Tiki culture. His passion for exotic flavors and his dedication to crafting memorable experiences through his cocktails have left an indelible mark on the world of mixology.
Today, the Three Dots and a Dash cocktail continues to be a favorite among Tiki enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike. Its enduring popularity is a tribute to the timeless appeal of well-crafted, flavorful drinks that evoke a sense of adventure and escapism.
