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How to Make the El Presidente

This Cuban classic is a delightful mix of rum, vermouth, orange curaçao, and grenadine. Think of it as Cuba’s answer to the Manhattan, but with a tropical twist. It’s smooth, balanced, and just the right amount of zest.

El Presidente bhofack2 from Getty Images

A Brief History of El Presidente

The El Presidente cocktail emerged in Cuba during the early 20th century, a golden age of cocktail culture fueled by American Prohibition. The drink, a refined blend of rum, dry vermouth, orange curaçao, and grenadine, is named after a Cuban president—most likely Mario García Menocal (1913–1921) or Gerardo Machado (1925–1933).

Cocktail historian David Wondrich describes it as “the Cubanized answer to the Manhattan.” Picture glamorous bars, live jazz, and impeccably dressed patrons sipping on this sophisticated concoction. When American tourists flocked to Cuba during Prohibition, El Presidente became even more popular, cementing its place in cocktail history. It disappeared but was then revised in during this cocktail renaissance we are now in!

Ingredients Needed for El Presidente

This drink keeps it simple but refined with:

  • White or Aged Rum – The backbone of the drink, giving it warmth and character.
  • Dry Vermouth – Adds an herbal touch to balance the sweetness.
  • Orange Curaçao – A burst of citrus that brightens everything up.
  • Grenadine – A hint of sweetness and a pop of color.
  • Garnish – Orange Peel and/or a cherry

You can find all the ingredients at Whisky Exchange  in the UK; or Total Wine & More in the USA!

Essential Equipment You Need

You’ll be stirring this one, so grab your mixing glass! Here is every tool you’ll need:

  • Mixing Glass – For stirring everything to the perfect chill.
  • Bar Spoon – Because stirring is just as important as shaking.
  • Jigger – Measuring = consistency = a perfect cocktail.
  • Strainer – Keeps things smooth and refined.
  • Chilled Coupe Glass – Because presentation matters!

 Plus more tropical rum cocktails here

Here is the recipe:

El Presidente bhofack2 from Getty Images

El Presidente

Susan
Think of the El Presidente cocktail as Cuba’s answer to the Manhattan, with a tropical twist. It’s smooth, balanced, with the perfect bit of panache!
No ratings yet
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 7 minutes
Course Cocktails
Cuisine Cuban
Servings 1
Calories 211 kcal

Ingredients
 
 

  • 2 oz white or aged rum
  • ¾ oz dry vermouth
  • ½ oz orange curaçao
  • ¼ oz grenadine
  • Garnish: orange peel and/or cherry

Instructions
 

  • Combine rum, dry vermouth, orange curaçao, and grenadine in a mixing glass filled with ice
  • Stir until chilled, about 30 seconds
  • Strain into the glass
  • Garnish with an orange peel or cherry and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 211kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 0.02gFat: 0.04gSaturated Fat: 0.02gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.01gSodium: 4mgPotassium: 7mgSugar: 8gCalcium: 1mgIron: 0.03mg
Keyword El Presidente, Rum
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