The Bacardi Special Cocktail stands as a testament to the enduring allure of classic cocktails. This drink, a sophisticated relative of the well-known Bacardi Cocktail, elevates the experience by incorporating gin, adding a layer of complexity and a touch of botanical intrigue. It’s a drink with a history, a story woven into the fabric of early 20th-century cocktail culture, and continues to be enjoyed by those who appreciate a well-balanced and nuanced libation.
A Historical Sip
The Bacardi Special’s origins can be traced back to the early 1930s, finding its first documented appearance in Harry Craddock’s famed “The Savoy Cocktail Book” of 1930. According to Craddock, the cocktail was made famous by Karl K. Kitchen, a prominent New York newspaper columnist of the era. This connection to a well-known personality of the time undoubtedly contributed to the cocktail’s initial popularity and its place in cocktail history. The Bacardi Special is a variation of the original Bacardi Cocktail, which itself dates back to the early 1900s. The original Bacardi Cocktail was a simple mix of rum, lime juice, and grenadine, but the addition of gin in the Bacardi Special adds a new dimension of flavor to the classic combination.
The Original Bacardi Cocktail
The original Bacardi Cocktail, a precursor to the Special, is a simple yet elegant concoction of rum, lime, and grenadine. It rose to prominence in the early 20th century, surviving Prohibition and becoming a favorite in the United States. This version is often considered a variation on the Daiquiri, using grenadine instead of sugar. The popularity of the Bacardi Cocktail led to the Bacardi Company taking legal action in 1936 to protect its trademark, ensuring that drinks using the “Bacardi” name were made with Bacardi rum, highlighting the drink’s significance and recognition. The grenadine version of the Bacardi Cocktail is believed to have originated in the US, while the non-red version of the recipe comes from Cuba.
Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor
The Bacardi Special Cocktail is a testament to the art of balance. The gin and rum base provides a sturdy foundation, while the lime juice and grenadine contribute layers of tartness and sweetness. Here is a breakdown of the key ingredients and their roles:
The Spirits
- Light Rum: The preferred choice for this cocktail is a light, white rum, such as Bacardi Superior. Its clean, subtle flavor allows the other ingredients to shine through. While Bacardi is the classic choice, other quality white rums will work.
- Gin: A London Dry gin is the traditional choice, with Beefeater being specifically cited in some historical recipes. The gin contributes a botanical complexity that elevates the drink beyond a standard rum cocktail. The ratio of gin to rum is typically half, meaning that for every two parts of rum, one part of gin is added.
The Sour and Sweet
- Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is crucial for this cocktail. It provides the necessary tartness to balance the sweetness of the grenadine and enhances the overall flavor profile. It is important to use fresh juice for the best taste, as bottled lime juice can have a different, less vibrant flavor.
- Grenadine: This pomegranate syrup brings both sweetness and a beautiful ruby hue to the drink. The amount of grenadine can be adjusted to personal preference, but it’s usually used in a smaller quantity than the other ingredients. Some people prefer a little more sweetness, while others like just a touch.
Optional additions
- Simple Syrup: Some recipes include a small amount of simple syrup to further balance the tartness of the lime juice, especially if the lime is very acidic.
- Chilled Water: If using wet ice, some recipes call for a small amount of chilled water. Otherwise, it can be omitted.
- Angostura Bitters: A dash of Angostura bitters is a modern addition suggested by some cocktail enthusiasts for an extra layer of depth and complexity.
- Garnish: A maraschino cherry or a lime wedge are the most common garnishes, adding a final visual touch.
Crafting the Bacardi Special: Step-by-Step
Making a Bacardi Special is a relatively simple process that requires a few key steps:
- Chill Your Glass: Begin by chilling a coupe or cocktail glass. This ensures that your drink stays cold for longer and enhances the overall drinking experience.
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the light rum, gin, fresh lime juice, grenadine, and simple syrup (if using).
- Add Ice: Fill the shaker with ice cubes. This helps chill and slightly dilute the drink.
- Shake Well: Close the shaker and shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds. This ensures that all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and chilled.
- Strain: Double strain the mixture into the chilled cocktail glass to remove any ice shards.
- Garnish: Add a maraschino cherry or a lime wedge as a garnish.
Variations and Customizations
While the classic Bacardi Special recipe is a tried-and-true standard, there are some variations and customizations that you can explore:
- Adjusting Sweetness and Tartness: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of lime juice and grenadine. If you prefer a tarter drink, you can use a little more lime and less grenadine, and vice versa if you prefer a sweeter one.
- Rum Choice: While Bacardi Superior is the classic choice, you can experiment with other white rums.
- Gin Choice: While a London Dry gin is traditional, you can try a different style of gin for a different flavor profile.
- Adding Bitters: For a more complex flavor, try adding a dash of Angostura bitters.
Serving and Enjoying
The Bacardi Special is best enjoyed immediately after preparation. It’s a drink that is perfect for sipping slowly and savoring the complex flavors. Serve in a chilled coupe or cocktail glass, and garnish accordingly. This cocktail is a great option for both casual get-togethers and more formal occasions.
The Enduring Appeal
The Bacardi Special Cocktail, with its blend of history, balanced flavors, and adaptability, remains a compelling choice for cocktail enthusiasts. Its legacy as a drink enjoyed by luminaries of the past, combined with its modern-day appeal, solidifies its place as a classic cocktail that is here to stay. Whether you’re a cocktail novice or an experienced mixologist, the Bacardi Special is a recipe worth exploring.
