Paul Kushner
The Drunken Monkey Rum is a playful tropical cocktail with layers of sweet fruit, warm spice, and a hint of nuttiness. Pineapple-orange juice brings a sunny citrus base, while coconut rum adds a smooth, creamy note. Spiced rum lends depth and warmth, and banana liqueur introduces a mellow tropical sweetness. A touch of bitters balances the flavors, and a splash of maraschino cherry juice adds both color and subtle richness. Finished with a dusting of nutmeg and fresh pineapple garnish, this cocktail is as aromatic as it is flavorful perfect for sipping on warm afternoons or serving at a lively gathering.
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Tasting Notes
The Drunken Monkey Rum is a tropical cocktail with layers of sweetness, spice, and subtle nuttiness. Pineapple-orange juice forms a fruity base that blends smoothly with the creamy notes of coconut rum. Spiced rum adds warmth and complexity, while banana liqueur offers a soft, ripe fruit sweetness. A splash of maraschino cherry juice deepens the color and gives a gentle tartness. Two dashes of bitters tie everything together with a hint of herbal spice. Garnished with pineapple wedges and a dusting of ground nutmeg, each sip is refreshing, aromatic, and well-rounded, making it perfect for a laid-back island-inspired drink.
Equipment and Glassware
To prepare the Drunken Monkey Rum, you’ll need a few key tools. A cocktail shaker is essential for blending the juices and spirits thoroughly while chilling them quickly. A jigger ensures accurate measurements to keep the flavors balanced. A bar spoon makes it easy to measure and add the bitters precisely. A strainer is necessary to achieve a smooth pour without excess ice. Chilling your cocktail glass in the freezer before pouring will keep the drink cold longer. For serving, a stemmed cocktail glass or a short tiki-style glass works well, complementing the drink’s tropical flair and colorful presentation.
Ingredients
- 3 oz pineapple-orange juice
- 1 1/2 oz coconut rum
- 1/2 oz spiced rum
- 1/2 oz banana liqueur
- 2 dashes bitters
- Splash maraschino cherry juice (to taste)
- Ground nutmeg (for garnish)
- Pineapple wedges (for garnish)
Instructions
- Chill a cocktail glass in the freezer.
- Add the pineapple-orange juice, coconut rum, spiced rum, banana liqueur, and bitters to a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds, until well chilled.
- Strain into the chilled glass.
- Add a splash of maraschino cherry juice, adjusting to taste.
- Garnish with a light sprinkle of ground nutmeg and a pineapple wedge.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh pineapple-orange juice for better flavor.
- Chill your glass beforehand for a longer-lasting cold drink.
- Adjust cherry juice to control sweetness and color.
- Shake firmly but briefly to prevent over-dilution.
- Use quality coconut rum for a smoother finish.
- Add bitters carefully; too much can overpower.
- Fresh pineapple wedges make a better garnish than canned.
- Lightly dust nutmeg for aroma without overwhelming the drink.
- Serve immediately to maintain freshness.
- Clear ice melts slower, keeping the drink balanced.
When to Serve
The Drunken Monkey Rum is perfect for summer gatherings, tropical-themed parties, and casual weekend relaxation. Its fruity, layered flavors make it a refreshing option for poolside sipping or backyard barbecues. The combination of sweet citrus, creamy coconut, warm spice, and banana notes gives it an easy-drinking quality that appeals to a variety of palates. It also works well as a signature cocktail for beach vacations or luau-style celebrations. With its bright color, fresh garnishes, and approachable flavor, it’s a drink that suits both festive group occasions and quiet moments when you want a taste of the tropics.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Coconut Rum
- Malibu
- Blue Chair Bay Coconut Rum
- Kōloa Kaua’i Coconut Rum
Spiced Rum
- Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum
- Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum
- Kraken Black Spiced Rum
Banana Liqueur
- Giffard Banane du Brésil
- Tempus Fugit Crème de Banane
- Bols Banana Liqueur
Bitters
- Fee Brothers Old Fashioned Bitters
- Angostura Aromatic Bitters
- Peychaud’s Bitters
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 3 oz pineapple-orange juice
- 1 1/2 oz coconut rum
- 1/2 oz spiced rum
- 1/2 oz banana liqueur
- 2 dashes bitters
- Splash maraschino cherry juice to taste
- Ground nutmeg for garnish
- Pineapple wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Chill a cocktail glass in the freezer.
- Add the pineapple-orange juice, coconut rum, spiced rum, banana liqueur, and bitters to a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds, until well chilled.
- Strain into the chilled glass.
- Add a splash of maraschino cherry juice, adjusting to taste.
- Garnish with a light sprinkle of ground nutmeg and a pineapple wedge.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use fresh pineapple-orange juice for a more vibrant flavor.
- Adjust the maraschino cherry juice depending on your preferred sweetness.
- A fine dusting of freshly grated nutmeg offers a more aromatic garnish.
