The daiquiri is an iconic drink that always refreshes and never goes out of style. Recent interest in pre-Prohibition cocktails sparked the renaissance of the classic daiquiri—and prompted the inception of National Daiquiri Day.
"[It] celebrates the heritage of one of the greatest cocktails in history,” says Scott Fitzgerald, head bartender of Mulberry Project in New York City. “The daiquiri is not only one of the simplest, yet subtlety flavorful cocktails, it has also provided a balanced base for many modern cocktail recipes.”
Shake up this rendition on Thursday, July 19, to celebrate.
Enchanted Dry Daiquiri
Recipe courtesy Tim Cooper, head mixologist at GOLDBAR in New York City
2 ounces Brugal Extra Dry Rum
¼ ounce Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur
¼ ounce Velvet Falernum
½ ounce basil syrup (recipe below)
¾ ounces fresh grapefruit juice
¾ ounces fresh lime juice
1 basil leaf, for garnish
Combine all ingredients except for garnish in a cocktail shaker. Add ice and shake vigorously. Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with the basil leaf.
Basil Syrup
1 ounce water
1 medium basil leaf
1 tablespoon sugar
Bring the water to a boil. Turn off the heat and add the basil leaf, stirring gently. Let the mixture sit for 15–30 minutes, then remove the basil leaf. Add the sugar and stir until it dissolves.