The Donn Day Afternoon is a delightful tiki cocktail that pays homage to the classic cinnamon-grapefruit combination found in Don’s Mix. Created by renowned bartender Martin Cate for his book “Smuggler’s Cove,” this drink puts a unique twist on the traditional Zombie cocktail by replacing fresh grapefruit with Stiegl-Radler grapefruit beer. The result is a refreshing and light libation that’s perfect for lazy afternoons and day drinking.
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
What sets the Donn Day Afternoon apart is its carefully selected ingredients. The cocktail features fresh lime juice, which adds a bright and citrusy tang, and the special SC Cinnamon Syrup, which brings a warm and spicy depth to the drink. The star of the show, however, is the Stiegl-Radler grapefruit beer, which provides a unique and refreshing twist on the classic grapefruit flavor found in Don’s Mix.
The Importance of Quality Ingredients
To truly capture the essence of the Donn Day Afternoon, it’s crucial to use high-quality ingredients. The recipe calls for rhum agricole blanc, preferably AOC Martinique, which adds a distinct grassy and earthy flavor profile to the cocktail. The SC Cinnamon Syrup, made with water, cinnamon sticks, and granulated sugar, is another key component that should not be overlooked. Taking the time to prepare this syrup from scratch will elevate the drink’s overall flavor and complexity.
Preparing the Donn Day Afternoon
To make the Donn Day Afternoon, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz Rhum JM
- 1 1/2 oz Stiegl Grapefruit Radler
- 3/4 oz Lime Juice
- 1/2 oz SC Cinnamon Syrup
- Grapefruit peel for garnish
Fill a double Old-Fashioned glass with cracked or cubed ice. Add the Rhum JM, Lime Juice, and SC Cinnamon Syrup to a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into the prepared glass. Top with the Stiegl Grapefruit Radler and gently stir. Garnish with an expressed oil from the grapefruit peel.
The SC Cinnamon Syrup Recipe
To make the SC Cinnamon Syrup, you’ll need:
- 2 cups water
- 3-4 cinnamon sticks (cassia or ceylon)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
Boil the water with the cinnamon sticks. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 12 hours. Strain through cheesecloth into a bowl, then bottle and refrigerate. The syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks.
A Cocktail for Any Occasion
Whether you’re lounging by the pool, enjoying a picnic in the park, or simply unwinding after a long day, the Donn Day Afternoon is the perfect companion. Its light and refreshing nature makes it an ideal choice for day drinking, while its complex flavors and unique ingredients make it a standout among other tiki cocktails. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something a little different, give the Donn Day Afternoon a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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