This month we are all about rum. Rum is so varied, diverse and full of character yet it is often overlooked in the U.S. Rhum agricole is the recommended style for this month’s kit. We love it because if it’s unique grassy character that keeps cocktails tasting fresh and bright rather than rich and savory.
Rhum agricole comes from the French Carribean and undergoes a slightly different process from other rums. It is distilled from fresh pressed sugar cane juice whereas most other rum is distilled from molasses.
There is no better way to showcase the intricacies of rhum than to enjoy it as a Ti’ Punch.
It is enjoyed throughout the day as a pick-me-up similar to espresso in Italy. Much like an Old Fashioned, the Ti’ Punch is a simple clean cocktail meant to showcase the rhum itself. It is a combination of rhum, cane sugar and a squeeze of lime. We will be taking the essential elements of the Ti’ Punch and adding some pizazz because we just can’t leave well enough alone.
It has softer edges than the Ti’ Punch and is a real banger in this hot weather. This cocktail was made for Earnest Hemingway at the La Floridita bar in Cuba. Our version has the addition of falernum which are meant to accent the savory spice notes of the rum and maraschino. Rhum, grapefruit, lime, maraschino and falernum join forces to bring you a refreshing cocktail that just won’t quit
Your kit will provide the mixers for these lovely cocktails and it will also focus on some techniques that will improve your bartending skills.
Now, who wants to make a rum cocktail?
We thought you'd never ask. This month's menu is all about rum so let's dive right in to see what's included when you order
TI Punch Cordial: You will use this to make ice cubes. The cubes will serve as the flavoring agent for your Ti’ Punch. The combination of lime, allspice, clove, cinnamon, cardamom and cane sugar are quintessential Caribbean flavors.
Citrus Concentrate: Just what you guessed. It’s citrus. But it’s concentrated. Lime and lemon peels that have been macerated to extract the essential oils and then combined with fresh juice and citric acid. Perfect to give all the citrus essence without watering down your cocktail.
Maraschino Cordial: This is a key ingredient in the Hemingway Daiquiri. Made from maraschino cherries, herbs and spices to give a nutty earthy backbone to your cocktail.
Falernum Bitters: Falernum is a traditional Caribbean syrup made from clove, ginger, almond, vanilla and lime. We are taking those flavors and turning them into an aromatic bitter to bring a bold and distinguished flavor to this month’s kit.
Square Cube Ice Mold: You will use this mold to make your cubes for the Ti’ Punch and then you can use to keep large square cubes on hand for all of your other cocktail needs.
Dehydrated Lime Wheel: A lovely garnish for your rhum cocktail and an aromatic treat to enjoy while you sip to your heart's content.
Commons Cherries: Amarena cherries that have been soaked in aromatics and spices for your enjoyment. The perfect garnish and accompaniment to both cocktails in this month’s kit.
How to measure ingredients: We will discuss why consistency is important to crafting cocktails and honing your skills.
How to properly use a cocktail shaker: learn how to shake a cocktail. We will also cover some alternative options for shaking if your shaker isn’t handy.
How to use ice as a cocktail ingredient: we will make flavored cubes and discuss other options for future flavored ice cubes
How to build a cocktail: the proper process for constructing your cocktail while eliminating waste and errors.
The beautiful basics of rum: We will discuss how rum is distilled, where it comes from and some common styles
This kit is for you! Perfectly refreshing with a few flavor profiles that will tickle the palate and sintillate the senses.
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