Drink in History: The Palmetto

Some cocktails grab attention with bold garnishes, rare ingredients, or intricate techniques that make you feel like you need a degree in mixology to enjoy them.

The Palmetto, however, is refreshingly straightforward. It’s a rum-based classic that delivers a balanced, sophisticated flavor yet somehow remains a hidden gem in the world of cocktails.

A Cocktail with Roots in History and a British Twist

The Palmetto has been around since the Prohibition era, first in the 1930 edition of The Savoy Cocktail Book, created by Harry Craddock. Craddock, an American bartender who fled to London during Prohibition, became known for crafting cocktails that have endured through the ages. Though he introduced the Palmetto to the cocktail world, it never quite received the same level of fame as its whiskey-based cousin, the Manhattan.

The name likely refers to the palmetto palm, a symbol of tropical relaxation—appropriate, given that the Palmetto swaps whiskey for a sun-soaked rum.

Crafting the Perfect Palmetto

Think of the Palmetto as a rum twist on the Manhattan but with a more complex character. The combination of dark rum, sweet vermouth, and orange bitters creates a rich depth, offering a taste that stands apart from the traditional whiskey concoction.

The rum you choose can really shape the drink. While any quality dark or gold rum will work, a rum from St. Croix will give your Palmetto a unique personality. St. Croix rum, like Cruzan, tends to be smoother and less spiced compared to Jamaican or Guyanese rums, offering a balanced, caramelized sweetness. This allows the sweet vermouth to shine without competing against stronger, molasses-heavy flavors.

Jamaican rums, known for their funky “hogo” taste, add a bold, tropical edge, while Demerara rums from Guyana contribute a deep, smoky molasses richness, bringing the drink closer to the familiar warmth of a Manhattan.

St. Croix rum is the way to go if you’re after a smooth, approachable Palmetto. But for those who enjoy exploring flavors, trying different rum styles will give you an exciting range of experiences.

The Last Word

While the Palmetto may not dominate cocktail menus, it’s a reminder that simple, three-ingredient drinks can pack a punch. Whether unwinding after a busy day or fantasizing about a Caribbean beach bar, this cocktail brings smooth, herbal, and citrusy flavors into your glass. And hey, if you’re feeling adventurous, drinking it out of a coconut is always an option!

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