An Old Friend • The Classic Daiquiri

The return of the classic Daiquiri.

It may look like lemonade, and it may also be refreshing on a searing summer day, but the lime-based fusion of rum and sugar, known as the Daiquiri, has a more interesting past.

The origin of the Daiquiri is a little unclear, although it is much more documented than most classic cocktails. The drink originated in Cuba after the events of the San Juan Hill Battle in 1898. With the sweet taste of victory, Americans started to utilize the Cuban iron ore mines. It wasn’t long before expatriate and engineer Jennings Stockton Cox created the “natural” daiquiri (meaning it’s made with light rum) after witnessing Cuban workers adding Bacardi into their coffee. This occurrence intrigued Cox into experimenting with beverages, and he recorded his concoctions in his journal, one of which is said to be the infamous drink.

A few different versions of this story exist, but they all still involve Cox, some rum, lime, and sugar. Over the decades, the Daiquiri has come in various forms and created famous fans like Ernest Hemingway, who spent a good deal of time in Cuba.

Add a few ice cubes into a coupe glass for a daiquiri on the rocks. Or many prefer to blend the ingredients with lime juice and other fruit like strawberry, or mango. However, it’s important to remember that lime is it’s “natural state” and seasoned fans of the cocktail might consider that redundant.

The Daiquiri maintains its essence of comfort and familiarity. It’s like an old friend – a very old, loyal friend.

– adapted from Parker Hunstiger for DRINKS Magazine

Recipe: Classic Daiquiri

2 ounces light rum
1 ounce fresh lime juice
1/2 ounce simple syrup
lime slice for garnish

Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake and then strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Find this, and other recipes in the Summer DRINKS Magazine, available now at Surdyk’s.