Who hasn’t daydreamed of lounging on a tropical beach, sipping on a frozen daiquiri? While the modern daiquiri often conjures images of fruity, icy bliss, its origins tell a fascinating tale of creativity and history. The daiquiri’s story begins in the small Cuban village of Daiquirí, just 14 miles east of Santiago de Cuba—a location rich in history and charm.
The Birth of a Classic
The daiquiri was first crafted in the early 1900s by an American mining engineer, Cox Jennings, while he was working in Cuba. As the story goes, Jennings found himself hosting guests one evening and, running out of gin, improvised with what he had: rum. He combined rum with fresh lemons, sugar, mineral water, and ice, serving it as a punch. The refreshing concoction was a hit, and when his guests asked for its name, Jennings honored the nearby beach village, Daiquirí.
Prohibition, Hemingway, and the Daiquiri’s Rise
The drink gained popularity locally thanks to Cuba’s abundant supply of Bacardí rum and fresh citrus. However, the daiquiri truly took off during Prohibition, when thirsty Americans, including literary legend Ernest Hemingway, flocked to Cuba.
Hemingway frequented El Floridita, a Havana bar where bartender Constantino Ribalaigua Vert, known as “The Cocktail King of Cuba,” reimagined the daiquiri. Vert added chipped ice to the drink, creating the frozen version we know today. For Hemingway, who preferred his drinks potent and sugar-free, Vert crafted the Papa Doble—a no-sugar daiquiri with double the rum, fresh lime juice, grapefruit juice, and a splash of maraschino liqueur.
A Drink for Every Taste
Since its inception, the daiquiri has evolved in countless ways, from classic recipes to vibrant fruit-infused variations. Whether you prefer the bold punch of a Hemingway Doble or the smooth simplicity of a traditional Bacardí daiquiri, this cocktail is synonymous with sunny days and tropical vibes.
Try It Yourself: Daiquiri Recipes to Transport You to the Tropics
Classic Bacardí Daiquiri
Ingredients:
- 6 lemons
- 6 tsp/30 ml sugar
- 6 cups/1.4 L Bacardí rum
- 2 cups/0.5 L mineral water
- Crushed ice
Instructions:
- Combine lemons, sugar, rum, and mineral water in a bowl.
- Stir thoroughly, then add crushed ice.
- Ladle into cups and enjoy this refreshing classic. Serves six.
Hemingway’s Papa Doble
Ingredients:
- 3 oz/90 ml white rum
- 1 oz/30 ml lime juice
- 0.5 oz/15 ml grapefruit juice
- 0.25 oz/8 ml maraschino liqueur
Instructions:
- Chill a cocktail glass.
- Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice and shake gently.
- Strain into the chilled glass or a coupe and savor this bold, sugar-free twist.
Rediscover the Daiquiri on Your Next Getaway
The daiquiri is more than a cocktail—it’s a taste of history and a symbol of island relaxation. Whether you’re exploring Cuba, unwinding on a Caribbean beach, or enjoying the sunshine at home, let this iconic drink transport you to the tropics. Raise a glass and celebrate the enduring charm of the daiquiri!