The Expedition

The Expedition by Martin Cate

Pirate themed puzzles deserve rum cocktails. It’s a well-known fact on the notes that are one octave above middle C. Those are the “high Cs” if you aren’t very musical. To celebrate the Smuggler’s Hold box we are stepping into the swarthy comfort of San Francisco’s iconic tiki bar, Smuggler’s Cove, a place this box would feel right at home. One of their famous concoctions, created by owner Martin Cate in homage to “Don the Beachcomber”, the grandaddy of tiki cocktails, is called “The Expedition”, and that sounds just right as a toast to this adventure.

embarking on an expedition

The drink certainly takes you on an adventure, combining black blended rum and bourbon with lime and a host of sweet flavors. This is at its dark and brooding heart a daiquiri, although a rather complex one. Black blended rum is typically molasses based and from Jamaica, with deep and distinctive caramel flavors. The bourbon should be bold as well, as there are a lot of sweeteners that need high proof balance. I like to simplify the process and made a single syrup with demerara, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla. The coffee liqueur is also a nice touch that sets this one apart. The drink might knock your socks off, it’s so tasty, unless you already have a peg leg. Cheers!

smuggle this pair

The Expedition by Martin Cate

2 oz black blended rum

1 oz bourbon

½ oz cinnamon syrup

½ oz honey syrup

¼ oz vanilla syrup

¼ oz coffee liqueur

1 oz lime

2 oz soda water

Flash blend ingredients with pebble ice and agitator cubes. (Or shake with ice and strain, then add crushed ice). Open pour into a tiki mug, top with the soda water, and grate nutmeg on top. Orchid garnish is official.

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