The El Presidente is a drink that speaks whispers of Cuba's golden age. This smooth mix has charmed drinkers for close to a century, proving sometimes the oldies really are the goodies.
Smoothness of flavors, along with a silky feel, is all this drink is about. When you look at it, you see this pretty light golden color, reminding one of sunny beaches. But let its looks not fool you; this cocktail really packs a punch.
With a sip, you taste a perfect mix of sweet and dry. The warm, rich taste of the Rum, the little herbiness of the Vermouth, the sweetness from a dash of Orange Curaçao, and a touch of fruitiness from the Grenadine, which gives it color.
It is usually served cold in a fancy glass without ice. It is best drunk slowly, letting the flavors mix in your mouth as it warms up a bit. This drink is great before dinner to make you hungry, but you can enjoy it anytime you want something fancy and tasty.
This cocktail proves that a few simple ingredients can turn into something really special if mixed properly. It is a favorite among high-class bars and regular pubs alike, proving very well that good taste never goes out of style.
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A silky mix of rum and vermouth that captures the spirit of 1920s Havana
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Did you know that El Presidente...
... is thought to honor either President Gerardo Machado or President Mario García Menocal. Its first recorded mention appears in the 1915 Manual de Cantinero by John Escalante.
Who invented this cocktail
was invented in the early 1920s in Havana, Cuba. It's believed to be the brainchild of American bartender Eddie Woelke, who emigrated to Cuba during Prohibition.
The origin and history of "El Presidente"
This cocktail's tale begins in the vibrant days of the 1920s Havana. Cuba was the place to be for Americans seeking to escape the prohibition on bars, and the bars were abuzz with fresh cocktail ideas.
At this time, Eddie Woelke, an American bartender, moved to Cuba during this time. He's the one most people think came up with this cocktail. It quickly became a hit, especially with the rich and famous visitors to Cuba.
The name the cocktail picked up was because it was supposedly the favorite drink of Cuban president Gerardo Machado. This link with power made it even more popular.
Over the years, people have made this cocktail in different ways: with more Vermouth, others with more Rum. The use of Grenadine has also changed, with some recipes using just a tiny bit for color.
When Cuba's government changed in the 1960s, many bartenders left the country, taking their recipes with them to other parts of the world. This helped spread its fame.
Today, it sees a revival of interest, as is the case with other vintage cocktails, and serves to remind one of Cuba's Golden Age of Cocktails. Tasting just as great today as it did yesterday.
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Bartender Tips for making the perfect "El Presidente"
To make that perfect version, here are some suggestions for El Presidente:
Use a good quality White Rum for the best taste
Chill the glass before pouring, so it will be cold for a longer period
Stir rather than shake keeps it clear and silky
Use fresh orange peel for garnish to add a nice smell
Use different types of Vermouth to change the flavor
El Presidente recipe
Prep: 3 minTotal: 5 min
Ingredients
45 ml LIGHT RUM
25 ml ORANGE CURACAO
25 ml DRY VERMOUTH
1 dash GRENADINE
1½ oz LIGHT RUM
¾ oz ORANGE CURACAO
¾ oz DRY VERMOUTH
1 dash GRENADINE
Garnish
ORANGE ZEST
Preparation
Add all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice
Shake well
Strain into a chilled glass
Garnish and serve
Nutritional Info
Calories:166 kcal
Alcohol units:3.2 units
ABV (Alcohol By Volume)~33%
Dietary Info
VeganVegetarianGluten-freeDairy-free
Country of origin: Cuba
"El Presidente" Variations
Make a Royal Presidente by adding Champagne on top
Try a Presidente Fizz by adding Soda Water for bubbles
Create a Tropical Presidente by using Pineapple Juice instead of Vermouth
Get a Spiced Presidente by using Spiced Rum instead
El Presidente stands as a tasty reminder of a bygone era, mixing Cuban spirit with American flair. Its smooth taste and rich history make it a cocktail that's both a treat to drink and a great story to tell.
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Current Comments: 2
Lucas88
Sep 11, 2024
A nice balance of rum and vermouth. The orange zest adds a refreshing touch.
AvaZee
Sep 4, 2024
Elegant and smooth. The grenadine adds a subtle sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
Leave a comment
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Current Comments: 2