Paul Kushner
The Hurricane is a bold, fruit-forward rum cocktail that originated in New Orleans during the 1940s. Traditionally served in its namesake curved glass, this drink blends light and dark rums with bright citrus, tropical passion fruit, and a hint of grenadine for a vibrant color. It’s sweet, tangy, and packs a punch making it a go-to for Mardi Gras celebrations, summer gatherings, or anytime you want a taste of the French Quarter at home. Refreshing yet strong, the Hurricane is a spirited reminder that great cocktails can be both festive and full of character.
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Tasting Notes
The Hurricane is a lively rum cocktail that’s both fruity and bold. The mix of white and dark rum creates a layered depth light and crisp up front, rich and molasses-tinged in the finish. Fresh lime and orange juice brighten the drink, while passion fruit puree gives it a tropical tang. Simple syrup smooths the edges, and a touch of grenadine adds color and subtle sweetness. Served over ice in its namesake glass, the Hurricane is refreshing yet full-bodied, with a balance of sweet, tart, and strong. The garnish of orange slice and cherry completes its colorful and inviting presentation.
Equipment and Glassware
For the best results, use a cocktail shaker to combine and chill the ingredients thoroughly. A jigger ensures accurate measurements of rum, juices, and syrups. A citrus juicer helps get the most from fresh limes and oranges. A bar spoon is useful for measuring grenadine and stirring when needed. A fine mesh strainer can help achieve a cleaner pour by filtering out pulp from the juices. Ice is needed for both shaking and serving. The ideal serving vessel is a hurricane glass, designed to highlight the drink’s vibrant colors and ample volume, making it as visually appealing as it tastes.
Ingredients
- 2 oz. white rum
- 2 oz. dark rum
- 1 oz. lime juice
- 1 oz. orange juice
- 0.5 oz. passion fruit puree
- 0.5 oz. simple syrup
- 1 bar spoon grenadine
Instructions
- Add ice to the shaker.
- Add white rum, dark rum, lime juice, orange juice, passion fruit puree, simple syrup, and grenadine.
- Shake the cocktail shaker.
- Fill a hurricane glass with ice.
- Strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Finally, garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh-squeezed lime and orange juice for best flavor
- Chill the hurricane glass before serving to keep the drink colder longer
- A rich dark rum like Gosling’s or Myers’s enhances depth
- Adjust simple syrup to taste if you prefer a less sweet drink
- Passion fruit puree can be substituted with high-quality passion fruit juice if needed
- Layer the grenadine last for a more dramatic color effect
- Crushed ice can be used for a beach-bar style presentation
- Double strain for a smoother texture if using pulpy puree
- Balance sweetness and tartness by tweaking lime and syrup ratios
- Garnish generously for a tropical lookto stay cold for a longer period of time, chill the glass first.
When to Serve
The Hurricane is ideal for summer gatherings, tiki nights, or any festive celebration where bold flavors and colorful drinks are appreciated. Its fruity, tropical profile pairs well with grilled seafood, barbecue, and spicy dishes, making it versatile for outdoor parties. It’s also a hit at Mardi Gras celebrations, where the drink has deep New Orleans roots. Serve it as a signature cocktail at luaus, pool parties, or themed events where you want something with visual impact. The combination of fresh fruit and rum makes it as suitable for a sunny afternoon as it is for an energetic evening crowd.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
White Rum
- Bacardi Superior
- Don Q Cristal
- Havana Club 3 Años
- Plantation 3 Stars
Dark Rum
- Myers’s Original Dark
- Gosling’s Black Seal
- Appleton Estate Signature
- Ron Diplomatico Mantuano
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 2 oz. white rum
- 2 oz. dark rum
- 1 oz. lime juice
- 1 oz. orange juice
- 0.5 oz. passion fruit puree
- 0.5 oz. simple syrup
- 1 bar spoon grenadine
Instructions
- Add ice to the shaker.
- Add white rum, dark rum, lime juice, orange juice, passion fruit puree, simple syrup, and grenadine.
- Shake the cocktail shaker.
- Fill a hurricane glass with ice.
- Strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Finally, garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.
Video
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lime and orange juice for brighter, cleaner flavors.
- If passion fruit puree is unavailable, passion fruit juice can work reduce the simple syrup slightly to keep sweetness in check.
- For a more tropical twist, float a splash of overproof rum on top.
