The Cocoanut Grove Cooler: A Classic Tiki Cocktail with a Smoky Twist

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The Cocoanut Grove Cooler is a beloved tiki drink that has captured the hearts of cocktail enthusiasts for generations. This iconic libation boasts a fascinating history, tracing its roots back to the legendary Ambassador Hotel’s Cocoanut Grove Night Club in Los Angeles. What sets the Cocoanut Grove Cooler apart from other tiki drinks is its unique use of Scotch as the base spirit, a departure from the more commonly used rum.

The Original Recipe

The original recipe for the Cocoanut Grove Cooler is a symphony of flavors, blending together a medley of fruits with the smoky undertones of Scotch. To create this classic cocktail, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz Blended Scotch (Buchanan’s 12 Year)
  • 3/4 oz Lemon Juice
  • 3/4 oz Orange Juice
  • 3/4 oz Pineapple Juice
  • 3/4 oz Curaçao (Van der Hum)
  • 1/2 oz Passion Fruit Nectar (PF syrup)
  • 1/2 oz Grenadine
  • 1/2 tsp Orgeat
  • Garnish: orange slice, cherries (optional), and mint sprig

When crafted to perfection, the Cocoanut Grove Cooler greets you with a delightful mint and orange bouquet, followed by a burst of fruity flavors, including orange, lemon, and passion fruit. As you savor the drink, you’ll detect a subtle hint of smoky Scotch, adding depth and complexity to the overall experience.

A Modern Reimagining

In recent years, the Cocoanut Grove Cooler has undergone a contemporary makeover, thanks to the creative genius of mixologist Paul McGee. His modern interpretation of this classic tiki drink introduces a few twists while staying true to its roots. McGee’s version calls for the following ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz Bank Note Scotch (Famous Grouse)
  • 1/2 oz Batavia Arrack (Van Oosten)
  • 3/4 oz Pineapple Juice
  • 3/4 oz Lemon Juice
  • 1/2 oz Passion Fruit Syrup
  • 1/2 oz Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao
  • 1/4 oz Orgeat
  • 1/4 oz Grenadine
  • Garnish: pineapple fronds, orchid, orange floret, and parasol (orange twist and paper umbrella)
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This updated recipe showcases an enticing aroma of orange oil, passion fruit, and pineapple, inviting you to take a sip. As you do, you’ll be greeted by a harmonious blend of lemon, passion fruit, and pineapple flavors, followed by the rich notes of Scotch, funky rum, and orange-passion fruit on the swallow. The nutty finish serves as a delightful parting gift, leaving you craving another taste of this exquisite cocktail.

A Timeless Tiki Classic

The Cocoanut Grove Cooler has solidified its place in the annals of tiki drink history, thanks to its unique combination of Scotch and tropical fruit flavors. Whether you opt for the original recipe or embark on a journey with its modern reinterpretation, this cocktail is sure to transport you to a world of exotic delights and refined refreshment.

So, the next time you find yourself in the mood for a tiki adventure, consider mixing up a Cocoanut Grove Cooler. With its rich history and irresistible flavor profile, this cocktail is a testament to the enduring allure of tiki culture and the endless possibilities that arise when creativity meets the art of mixology.

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