Rum Swizzle Classic Tropical Cocktail Recipe
We may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
The Rum Swizzle is considered the national cocktail of Bermuda. It always features rum and fruit juice, though recipes vary. Whichever recipe you use, it will be delicious and refreshing.
This much-loved cocktail traces back to the Caribbean, and drinking it can make you feel like you’re there. It’s the drink of choice on a Friday night happy hour in Bermuda, and there’s no reason it can’t become your Friday night drink too.
Why It’s Called the Rum Swizzle
The name “swizzle” comes from the traditional method of mixing the drink, which involves using a “swizzle stick” – a small, wooden or metal utensil with multiple prongs that is twirled between the palms to create a vortex-like motion and mix the ingredients together.
This unique technique not only helps to blend the flavors but also creates a frothy, chilled texture that is incredibly refreshing.
Recipe Variations
Over the centuries, the Rum Swizzle has evolved and taken on various regional variations, with different islands and bartenders putting their own unique spin on the classic recipe. However, the core ingredients – rum, citrus juices, and a touch of sweetness – have remained the foundation of this timeless cocktail.
Some versions also call for you to put everything in a tall Collins glass instead of a short tumbler, and then fill it with soda water. If you’re in the mood for bubbles, it’s extra refreshing.
The Key Ingredients of the Rum Swizzle
At the heart of this drink is the rum itself. Traditionally, it calls for a blend of light and dark rums to create a well-balanced flavor profile, with the lighter rum providing a crisp, clean base and the darker rum adding depth and complexity.
The choice of rum can make a big difference to the overall taste of the cocktail, and many bartenders and enthusiasts have their own preferred brands and blends. Some popular options include Bacardi, Mount Gay, and Gosling’s – all of which bring their own unique characteristics to the drink.
It also relies heavily on citrus juices, which are typically a combination of lime and pineapple, although some recipes call for orange. The bright, tangy flavors help to balance the sweetness of the cocktail and give a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the rum.
To tie all the flavors together, recipes often include a touch of sweetness, usually in the form of a simple syrup or a small amount of falernum – a Caribbean-style syrup that incorporates spices like cloves, ginger, and allspice. If you don’t have falernum, you can sprinkle some allspice, nutmeg or other spices of your choice on top of the drink or stir them into it.
Finally, the swizzle stick itself plays a crucial role in the preparation of the cocktail. As mentioned earlier, the unique twirling motion of the swizzle stick helps to aerate the drink, creating a frothy, chilled texture that is integral to the overall experience.
Serving Ideas
Occasions
The Rum Swizzle is perfect for casual cocktail parties, tiki-themed parties and easy going get-togethers with a few friends. It makes a great big batch drink, especially for a summer party… or even a winter party where you want to make it feel more like summer.
Garnish
You can garnish this drink with any citrus fruit wedge, a cherry or a mint sprig. Or even a rosemary sprig.
Rum Swizzle Cocktail Recipe
The Rum Swizzle is considered the national cocktail of Bermuda. It features rum and fruit juice, though recipes vary. It's always delicious and refreshing.
Ingredients
- 2 oz light rum
- 1 oz dark rum
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz fresh pineapple juice
- 1/2 oz falernum or simple syrup
- 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Crushed ice
- Citrus fruit wedges or mint sprig for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a highball or Collins glass with crushed ice.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the light rum, dark rum, lime juice, pineapple juice, and simple syrup.
- Using a swizzle stick or a long barspoon, vigorously stir the mixture for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the outside of the shaker begins to frost.
- Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass, ensuring that the ice is well-incorporated.
- Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters on top of the drink.
- Garnish with citrus fruit wedges or a fresh mint sprig.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing, tropical flavors of the rum swizzle!
Recommended Products
Last Updated:
