Bienvenido Welcome Cocktail

Text by John Bodenschatz + Photography by Paul Lowe

There are few experiences better than serving daiquiris by the pool to good friends.

The daiquiri is a 19th-century cocktail born in Cuba during theSpanish-American War. While contemporary daiquiris conjure an image of frozen fruity drinks, the original is a sublime combination of rum, lime, and sugar. Happily, the modern cocktail movement is driving a resurgence of interest in classic cocktails, and the daiquiri is returning to its proper roots. My favorite variation of the daiquiri embraces flavors of rum, banana, and pineapple.And since the pineapple is a symbol of hospitality, friendship, and warm weather, this cocktail is sure to set off your summer in grand style.

Bienvenido Welcome Cocktail

MAKES 1 COCKTAIL

1 ounce Plantation Pineapple Rum

1 ounce Plantation O.F.T.D. Rum

1 ounce Giffard Banana Liqueur

.75 ounce lime juice

.75 ounce thyme simple syrup

pineapple slice, for garnish

Luxardo maraschino cherries, for garnish

1. Pour ingredients into the cocktail shaker. 2. Add ice and shake vigorously. 3. Double strain into a coupe glass. 4. Slide the cocktail pick through one side of the pineapple slice, maraschino cherries, and then the other side of the pineapple slice.

Note: To make thyme simple syrup, add equal parts water and sugar, and a few sprigs of thyme to a small saucepan and bring to a simmer. Let cool. Strain into a resealable container, and keep in the fridge.

You can find more of John’s fab cocktails at TheCocktailPotluck.com.