Immerse yourself in the rich history of Havana’s cocktail culture with the El Presidente cocktail. Rooted in the legacy of La Piña de Plata, a bar that opened its doors in 1820 and eventually transformed into the famed El Floridita, this libation carries within it the echoes of nearly two centuries of tradition. Adapted from the 1935 menu of El Floridita, the El Presidente cocktail invites you to savor the flavors that have graced the glasses of generations past. With a foundation of white rum, dry vermouth, orange curaçao, and a touch of grenadine, this cocktail is a tribute to the artistry and evolution of mixology.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 3/4 fl oz/50ml white rum
- 4 tsp dry vermouth
- 3 tsp orange curaçao
- Dash of grenadine
- Ice cubes
- Orange zest twist & maraschino cherry (for garnish)
PREPARATIONS:
- Combine 1 3/4 fl oz/50ml of white rum with 4 tsp of dry vermouth.
- Introduce 3 tsp of orange curaçao, infusing the cocktail with a citrusy depth.
- Add a dash of grenadine to enhance the cocktail’s color and subtle sweetness.
- Pour the mixture into a mixing glass filled with ice, setting the stage for mixing.
- Stir the ingredients gently to achieve a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Strain the cocktail into a martini glass or coupe, showcasing its clarity and allure.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Stir the cocktail gently to preserve the drink’s texture and consistency.
- Utilize high-quality ingredients to pay homage to the legacy of El Floridita.
TIPS:
- Experiment with the amount of grenadine to achieve your preferred level of sweetness.
- Consider expressing the orange zest twist over the cocktail to release its aromatic oils before garnishing.
- Serve the El Presidente in a historically inspired setting to evoke the charm of days gone by.
YIELD: 1 El Presidente cocktail
SERVING: Serve stirred and strained into a martini glass or coupe.
The El Presidente cocktail is a passport to Havana’s storied past, a sip that captures the essence of La Piña de Plata and the transformative journey that led to the iconic El Floridita. Adapted from the 1935 menu, this cocktail embodies the legacy of tradition, innovation, and flavor.
As you prepare the El Presidente, you’re not just mixing ingredients; you’re channeling the spirit of generations past. The white rum forms a sturdy foundation, while the dry vermouth adds a touch of sophistication. The orange curaçao’s citrusy notes harmonize beautifully, and the grenadine contributes a gentle sweetness that’s as alluring as it is vibrant.
Stirring the ingredients over ice is a deliberate act of respect for the cocktail’s history, allowing each element to come together in a balanced symphony. Straining the mixture into a martini glass or coupe reveals its elegant clarity, inviting you to raise a glass to the spirits of yesteryears.
The final garnish of an orange zest twist and a maraschino cherry is a nod to the cocktail’s origins and a sensory flourish that engages both sight and smell.
In conclusion, the El Presidente is more than a drink; it’s a portal to Havana’s past, an invitation to connect with the legacy of the city’s cocktail culture. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a cocktail aficionado, or simply seeking a taste of nostalgia, the El Presidente beckons you to savor the essence of a bygone era and celebrate the timeless art of mixology.
