Paul Kushner
El Macuá is the national cocktail of Nicaragua, known for its fruity flavor and smooth balance that makes it easy to enjoy. This drink combines the richness of rum with the tropical sweetness of guava juice, paired with the bright notes of fresh orange juice and a splash of lemon for a touch of tartness. A little simple syrup ties the flavors together, keeping the cocktail rounded and refreshing. Traditionally garnished with a cherry and an orange slice, it has a colorful and inviting look. El Macuá is simple to make, delicious to sip, and perfect for sunny afternoons or casual gatherings.
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Tasting Notes
El Macuá is smooth, fruity, and just the right amount of tart. The rum gives it a light kick white rum keeps it crisp, while aged rum adds a little depth. Guava juice brings a soft, tropical sweetness, balanced by the brightness of orange and lemon juice. A splash of simple syrup rounds it out without overdoing it. The orange slice and cherry garnish match the flavor, adding a small pop of aroma and color. It’s refreshing, light-bodied, and easy to sip without feeling too sweet or too strong.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a shaker, jigger, citrus squeezer, and a strainer. A fine mesh strainer helps if your juices are pulpy. A knife and peeler are handy for prepping the orange slice garnish. For glassware, a highball or stemless wine glass works well and gives enough room for ice and garnish. Chill your glass before serving to help keep everything cold. No fancy tools required just the basics to keep the texture smooth and the flavors well-blended.
Ingredients
- 1½ oz white rum
- 1 oz guava juice
- 1 oz orange juice
- ½ oz lemon juice
- ⅓ oz simple syrup
- Garnish: orange slice and maraschino cherry
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add rum, guava juice, orange juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange slice and cherry.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lemon and orange juice for best flavor.
- Try aged rum if you want a deeper finish.
- Adjust syrup if your guava juice is already sweet.
- Shake with plenty of ice to get a good chill.
- Strain through a fine mesh sieve for a clean pour.
- Garnish with a cocktail cherry or fresh cherry if in season.
- Chill your glass ahead of time for a longer-lasting chill.
When to Serve
El Macuá is great for warm-weather sipping, happy hour, or daytime parties. It’s light, refreshing, and fruit-forward perfect for backyard gatherings, brunches, or beach weekends. Since it’s not too strong, it works well early in the day or as a welcome drink. The tropical flavor also makes it a good match for summer food, like grilled seafood, tacos, or fresh fruit. It’s the kind of cocktail that looks bright, tastes fresh, and comes together fast—ideal for casual settings.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- White Rum: Flor de Caña Extra Dry (great for authenticity), Bacardi, or Don Q Cristal
- Aged Rum: Flor de Caña 4 Year, Havana Club Añejo, or Appleton Estate Signature
- Simple Syrup: Homemade (1:1 sugar to water) or store-bought like Stirrings
- Juice: Use fresh-squeezed orange and lemon juice; guava nectar like Goya or Jumex works well
- Garnish: Use a fresh orange slice and a quality cocktail cherry (like Luxardo)
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 1½ oz white rum
- 1 oz guava juice
- 1 oz orange juice
- ½ oz lemon juice
- ⅓ oz simple syrup
- Garnish: orange slice and maraschino cherry
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add rum, guava juice, orange juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange slice and cherry.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use fresh citrus juice whenever possible it makes a big difference in flavor.
- White rum keeps it crisp and light; aged rum adds a richer, deeper note.
- If your guava juice is sweetened, you can reduce the simple syrup slightly.
- Chill your glass for an extra refreshing finish.
