Virtually every bartender has experimented with combining rum and bitters in their cocktails, creating unique flavor profiles that are both bold and complex. This combination is a staple in many classic cocktails, showcasing the versatility and depth that these two ingredients can bring to a drink. As a seasoned bartender, I have had the pleasure of exploring various rum and bitters combinations, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with this dynamic duo.
Rum, with its rich history dating back to 17th-century Caribbean sugarcane production or molasses-based distillation, offers a wide range of flavor profiles, from sweet and fruity to bold and spicy. Bitters, on the other hand, are a carefully crafted blend of herbs, spices, and botanicals that add depth and complexity to cocktails. Used in small amounts, bitters can significantly impact the flavor profile of a drink, making them an essential component in many classic recipes.
When combining rum and bitters, the possibilities become endless. The sweetness of rum harmonizes well with the bitterness of bitters, resulting in a balanced and nuanced flavor experience. Different types of rum and bitters can be used to create a wide range of flavor profiles, from light and refreshing to bold and complex. Classic cocktails that have stood the test of time are often paired with modern twists on old favorites, showcasing the versatility of this ingredient combination.
In this blog post, I will share some of my favorite rum and bitters cocktail recipes that showcase the best of what these two ingredients can offer. Whether you’re a fan of classic cocktails or prefer something more modern, there’s sure to be a recipe that catches your eye. So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover some of the most intriguing rum and bitters cocktails out there.
Old Cuban
Taking inspiration from its classic counterpart, the Old Cuban is a refined reinterpretation of the timeless Mojito. Crafted by the ingenious Audrey Saunders, this premium cocktail masterfully combines aged dark Rum, fresh mint leaves, zesty lime juice, a hint of sweetness from simple syrup, and a precise two dashes of Angostura bitters to create a rich flavor profile.
The inclusion of Champagne elevates the drink to new heights, infusing it with an air of sophistication and effervescence that sets it apart from its traditional counterpart. With its perfect balance of refreshing and complex flavors, the Old Cuban is an ideal choice for any occasion, especially for those who appreciate the nuanced taste of Rum and Bitters cocktails.
Old Fashioned
Welcoming one of the most iconic cocktails in history, the Old Fashioned has endured as a timeless favorite among mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts alike. At its core, it’s a harmonious blend of whiskey, bitters, sugar, and water, elevated by a hint of citrus on top. The subtle bitterness provided by the bitters is expertly balanced by the sweetness contributed by the sugar, resulting in a delightful harmony of flavors.
For those eager to experiment with new twists while still staying true to the traditional spirit of the classic Old Fashioned, the Rum Old Fashioned offers an intriguing alternative that’s sure to satisfy.
Rum Old Fashioned
Fresh from the world of classic cocktails comes a delicious twist on the Old Fashioned: the Rum Old Fashioned. This innovative drink combines the smoothness of aged dark rum with the boldness of bitters, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to try something new and exciting. The recipe is remarkably simple and easy to follow, requiring only a handful of ingredients to bring this tropical treat to life.
Black Walnut Old Fashioned
Just as some cocktails are elevated by the addition of unique ingredients, the Black Walnut Old Fashioned stands out from the crowd with its rich and nutty flavor profile. By incorporating walnut rum into this classic cocktail, bartenders have created a drink that’s perfect for sipping on a cozy evening.
The use of locally sourced ingredients, including the high-quality walnut rum, adds an extra layer of depth to this cocktail, making it a great choice for those looking to support small distilleries and local businesses. Whether you’re in the mood for something new or just want to try a twist on a classic, the Black Walnut Old Fashioned is certainly worth giving a chance.
Rum Swizzle Cocktail
Rich in tropical flavors, the Rum Swizzle Cocktail is a true delight that will instantly transport you to a paradise of warm sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. This quintessential Bermudian drink has gained its national status for good reason, with its perfect balance of sweetness from fruit juices, the rich flavor of rum, and the subtle kick of bitters.
The swizzle stick, which originated in the Caribbean, played a significant role in shaping the cocktail’s name and has become an integral part of its preparation process.
Planter’s Punch
Crafted with love and care in Jamaica, Planter’s Punch is a timeless Caribbean cocktail that embodies the essence of tropical bliss. With its unique blend of dark rum, fresh orange juice, pineapple juice, Grenadine syrup, and Angostura bitters, this refreshing drink has been delighting generations of rum enthusiasts for years. The harmonious balance between the sweet and tangy fruit juices and the rich, velvety texture of the rum creates a truly unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny beach or daydreaming about your next island getaway, Planter’s Punch is the perfect cocktail to transport yourself to a state of pure relaxation.
Pina Colada
Prolific in its simplicity, the Pina Colada has remained a beloved summertime staple despite the passage of time. This classic cocktail’s enduring appeal lies in its harmonious blend of white rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice, which conjures up images of sun-kissed beaches and carefree afternoons.
As with many timeless recipes, the Pina Colada has undergone subtle refinements over the years, incorporating heavy cream and a judicious dash of Angostura Bitters to enhance its texture and depth of flavor without altering its fundamental character. While some may dismiss this sweet and tropical drink as overly sentimental, it’s surprisingly easy to fall in love with and serves as an ideal choice for casual gatherings or impromptu get-togethers.
Whether you’re hosting a soiree or simply seeking a light, sweet indulgence, the Pina Colada is a must-try cocktail that is sure to charm even the most discerning palates.
Old Cuban Cocktail
Naturally, one of the standout cocktails in recent years is the Old Cuban Cocktail, a modern classic created by Audrey Saunders, a well-respected New York bartender, in the early 2000s. This inventive cocktail seamlessly combines two classic drinks, the Mojito and the French 75, using aged rum as its base ingredient. The aged rum brings a rich tapestry of flavors with notes of vanilla, coconut, almond, citrus, or caramel to the table, making it stand out from other rum cocktails in the process.
Rum Swizzle
Yellowing pages of old cocktail recipe books may hold the secret to creating the perfect Rum Swizzle. This classic Caribbean cocktail has been around for decades, and its popularity can be attributed to its well-balanced combination of sweet and sour flavors. Made with rum, lime juice, and bitters, the Rum Swizzle is a refreshing drink that’s sure to quench your thirst on a hot summer day. The addition of bitters adds a unique depth of flavor, setting it apart from other cocktails.
Whether you’re lounging by the pool or enjoying a day at the beach, this cocktail is perfect for any occasion. So, grab your shaker and get ready to mix up a delicious and revitalizing Rum Swizzle that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
The Loomi Cocktail
Among the myriad of Rum and Bitters cocktails, The Loomi Cocktail stands out as an exotic addition that’s sure to tantalize the taste buds. This refreshing concoction combines loomi tea, a tangy and bitter brew made from dried limes, with rum and angostura bitters, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. While some preparation is required, the end result is undeniably worth the effort.
If you’re eager to surprise your friends with an innovative and delectable cocktail experience, The Loomi Cocktail is an excellent choice that’s sure to impress.
Jungle Bird Cocktail
Generally speaking, The Jungle Bird Cocktail is an exemplary representation of tropical flavors in a mixed drink. Its unique blend of dark rum, pineapple juice, and Campari creates a harmonious balance of sweet, tart, fruity, and bitter notes that elevate it beyond the realm of ordinary cocktails. The presence of Campari, a distinctive Italian bitter liqueur, adds a sophisticated layer of complexity to this classic cocktail, differentiating it from more run-of-the-mill rum-based drinks.
Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or looking for a relaxed evening at home, the Jungle Bird Cocktail is sure to be a hit with its intriguing and multifaceted flavor profile.
Manhattan
Priding itself as one of the oldest cocktails in history, the Manhattan has remained a timeless favorite among whiskey connoisseurs and cocktail enthusiasts alike. Made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, this classic mixed-base drink is steeped in tradition and exudes sophistication. Whether enjoyed on a chilly winter evening or at a swanky rooftop bar, the Manhattan’s rich flavor profile is sure to impress.
For those looking to mix things up, consider trying a rum version of the Manhattan, which infuses a sweet and tropical twist into this classic cocktail, making it perfect for sipping on a warm summer day or during a beachside getaway.
Something Tropical Cocktail
Airmail Cocktail
Virtually any classic cocktail can claim to have stood the test of time, but the Airmail Cocktail truly has something special going on. Its unique blend of flavors – sweet, sour, and refreshingly tangy – makes it a delightful concoction that is impossible to resist. Made with gold rum, honey, fresh lime juice, and Brut champagne, this cocktail boasts a distinct taste that lingers long after the last sip.
Whether you’re an adventurous drinker or just looking for something new to try, the Airmail Cocktail is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for serving at parties or enjoying on a warm summer evening, when a refreshing drink can make all the difference.
Aperol Cocktail
For those who are fans of sour cocktails, the Aperol Cocktail, also known as the Amalfi, offers a modern twist on the classic Aperol spritz. This revitalizing drink combines Aperol’s bright orange Italian bitter flavor with white rum, lime, and pineapple juice to create a harmonious balance of sweet and tart notes that subtly give way to a tangy finish. To truly appreciate its complex taste, it is recommended to use high-quality rum in the preparation.
The simplicity of its preparation, which requires only a shake and strain method, makes it an accessible choice for anyone looking to try something new. Whether you’re seeking a fun cocktail for parties or a nightcap with a unique twist, the Aperol Cocktail is definitely worth trying out.
Naughty Gnome
Elevate your cocktail game with the Naughty Gnome, a unique and tantalizing drink that combines the spicy kick of Vernors Ginger Ale with the richness of dark rum and angostura bitters. This ingenious combination results in a less spicy ginger ale flavor profile that perfectly complements the bold taste of the dark rum, creating a rich and satisfying experience for the palate.
Stroopwafle S’mores Old Fashioned
Under the guise of a classic cocktail, lies a creative masterpiece: the Stroopwafle S’mores Old Fashioned. This innovative drink combines the rich flavors of toasted marshmallows, caramel stroopwafle, and aged rum to create a truly unique experience for those who crave s’mores without venturing into the great outdoors. The addition of smoky mezcal and chocolate bitters not only enhances the depth of the rum but also brings out its inherent richness.
To add a playful touch, the drink is garnished with a miniature stroopwafle s’mores that doubles as both a conversation starter and a delightful surprise for the taste buds. If you’re in search of a fun and tantalizing cocktail to try, then this Stroopwafle S’mores Old Fashioned is undoubtedly worth exploring.
