You don’t have to be in The Keys to enjoy a Hemingway daiquiri.
Barkeepers in Havana and Key West once knew “Papa” Hemingway better as an avid cocktail aficionado.
Learn how to make a Hemingway Daiquiri, and enjoy one while you read away a sun-filled day.
Credit: Photography: Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox
What Is the History of the Hemingway Daiquiri?
Here’s what you need:
How Does the Hemingway Daiquiri Differ from a Traditional Daiquiri?
The bartenders at El Floridita made a few substantial changes to the classic daiquiri to accommodate Hemingway’s requests.
Most significantly, the Hemingway Daiquiri includes no sweetener beyond the maraschino liqueur.
Tips for the Best Hemingway Daiquiri
1 .Take the time to be precise.
Like many other cocktails, the Hemingway Daiquiri relies on specific ratios of spirits to mixers.
“Balance is the key to a perfect Hemingway Daiquiri.
With citrus carrying such bold flavors, you don’t want to overpower cocktails by free pouring.
“The biggest mistake would be using artificial or preserved juices such as bottled lime juice.
Part of what makes the Hemingway Daiquiri so great is the use of both fresh grapefruit and lime juices.
Shake with the right amount of ice.
“Dilution levels [are important].
Try replacing the maraschino liqueur with brandy.
Ingredients
2oz.white rum
3/4oz.lime juice
1/2oz.grapefruit juice
2bar spoons (about 1/3 oz.)
Place the lid on the shaker, and dry shake (shake without ice) or 10 seconds.
launch the shaker, and fill halfway with ice cubes.
Garnish with a lime slice or a grapefruit slice.
Gently pour the aged rum over the back of the spoon to create a “floating” layer.
If you like the flavor of the cherry liqueur, feel free to add a tiny bit more.
