The Aku-Aku Gold Cup is a captivating tiki drink that has left an indelible mark on the world of cocktails. Created in the 1960s at the Aku-Aku restaurant in Las Vegas’ Stardust Hotel, this drink has a fascinating history that is intertwined with the mafia entanglements of the era. The mastermind behind this concoction was none other than Ernest Raymond Beaumont Gantt, also known as Don The Beachcomber, who crafted the drink on behalf of two notorious mobsters, Morris Barney (called “Moe”) Dalitz and Sam A. Tucker.
The Unique Decoration
One of the most striking features of the Aku-Aku Gold Cup is its distinctive decoration, which is designed to resemble a “Peineta” or Spanish Comb. This ornamental comb, traditionally used as part of female pinned up-dos, adds a touch of elegance and exoticism to the drink’s presentation. The “Spanish-Comb” ice shell that adorns the drink is a testament to the attention to detail and creativity that goes into crafting this magnificent cocktail.
The Evolution of the Recipe
Over the years, the recipe for the Aku-Aku Gold Cup has undergone several transformations. In its earlier incarnation, the drink featured a mix of lemon juice, sugar syrup, Jamaican rum, Puerto Rican rum, almond flavor, and the absinthe substitute “Herbsaint”. As time passed, the recipe was refined, with powdered sugar replacing the sugar syrup, and Falernum taking the place of almond flavor and Herbsaint. Some variations of the recipe even include a bar spoon of absinthe, adding a delightful flavor dimension to the drink.
The Preparation Process
Crafting the perfect Aku-Aku Gold Cup requires a specific preparation process. The first step involves dissolving icing sugar in lemon juice. Once this is done, the remaining ingredients are added to a shaker, along with the lemon juice and sugar mixture. The concoction is then shaken vigorously on ice to ensure that all the flavors are well-integrated. Finally, the drink is strained into a coupette glass, which is served with the iconic “Spanish-Comb” ice shell, creating a visually stunning and tantalizing presentation.
The Hybrid Recipe
For those eager to experience the delights of the Aku-Aku Gold Cup, here is a hybrid version of the recipe that captures the essence of this legendary tiki drink:
- 3 cl white Puerto Rican rum
- 1.5 cl Myers’s rum
- 1.5 cl Falernum
- 2.5 cl lemon juice
- 1 slightly heaped bar spoon of icing sugar
- 1 bar spoon of absinthe
A Timeless Tiki Treasure
The Aku-Aku Gold Cup is more than just a cocktail; it is a symbol of the rich history and cultural significance of tiki culture. Its complex flavors, unique presentation, and storied past make it a sought-after drink among tiki enthusiasts and cocktail aficionados alike. Whether you are a seasoned tiki connoisseur or a curious newcomer to the world of exotic drinks, the Aku-Aku Gold Cup is a must-try experience that will transport you to a realm of tropical delights and fascinating tales.
