Rum Swizzle

A tropical classic with Caribbean roots, the Rum Swizzle blends rum with fruity sweetness, citrus tang, and spiced depth. The banana falernum and pineapple syrup bring a rich, layered sweetness balanced by lime and bitters, perfect for warm evenings and laid-back celebrations.

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Tasting Notes

The Rum Swizzle is tropical, citrusy, and mildly spiced with a layered flavor that’s both refreshing and rich. Light rum sets a smooth base, while banana falernum syrup brings sweetness and spice. Pineapple and orange juices give the drink a bright, fruity edge. Lime juice cuts through with acidity, keeping the flavor crisp. Angostura bitters add depth and a touch of complexity. The float of grenadine gives a gentle sweetness and a vibrant finish in both color and taste. Garnishes of mint, pineapple, and cherry round it out with aroma and tropical character from the first sip to the last.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a cocktail shaker, jigger, and strainer to prepare the Rum Swizzle. Use a citrus squeezer for the lime juice and a bar spoon if you want to layer the grenadine precisely. A Collins glass is ideal, offering enough height and volume to hold the ingredients, ice, and garnishes without crowding the drink. A small paring knife helps with prepping the pineapple slice and mint sprig. Fresh ice is required for both shaking and serving. Though traditionally made with a swizzle stick, a standard shaker works just as well for this version while still achieving proper chill and dilution.

Ingredients

• 2 oz light rum
• 0.75 oz banana falernum syrup
• 0.5 oz pineapple syrup
• 0.5 oz lime juice
• 1 oz orange juice
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 0.25 oz grenadine (float)
• Garnish: mint sprig, pineapple slice, and cherry

Instructions

• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add rum, banana falernum, pineapple syrup, lime juice, orange juice, and bitters.
• Shake until well chilled.
• Strain into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice.
• Slowly pour grenadine over the back of a spoon to create a float.
• Garnish with a mint sprig, pineapple slice, and cherry.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh lime and orange juice for best flavor
• Shake vigorously to blend syrups and juices evenly
• Float the grenadine slowly over a spoon for cleaner layering
• Choose a light rum that’s crisp and not overly sweet
• Garnish just before serving to keep mint fresh
• Chill the Collins glass to slow melting
• If banana falernum syrup is unavailable, try spiced falernum
• Don’t skip the bitters, they balance sweetness and add complexity

When to Serve

The Rum Swizzle is well suited for summer gatherings, patio drinks, or beach-themed parties. It works great as a pre-dinner option or as part of a tropical cocktail lineup. The layered flavors and bright presentation make it a strong choice when serving a crowd or setting a festive mood. Thanks to the blend of juices and syrups, it’s refreshing enough for warm weather but flavorful enough to enjoy year-round. Serve this when you want something colorful, fruit-driven, and full of energy especially for occasions where presentation and drinkability both matter.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Light Rum

• Bacardí Superior
• Don Q Cristal
• Cruzan Light Rum
• Flor de Caña Extra Dry

Similar Cocktails

• Apricot Rum Fizz
• Orange Rhubarb Margarita
• Passion Fruit Bourbon Sour
• Strawberry Coconut Daiquiri
• Raspberry Coconut Cooler