Calabash Cocktail: A Glass of Tropical Sun

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This week, in the wake of snow storms and rapidly dropping temperatures, we decided to focus on a Caribbean concoction. Tropical rum drinks are always some of our favorites here at BayTowne Wine & Spirits, but their escapist potential is uniquely valuable during the Rochester grays. This particular mix comes from the island of Grenada. Known as the “Spice Island,” Grenada not only boasts acres of lush rainforest, but vanilla and nutmeg plantations and is responsible for 20% of the world’s nutmeg production. Grenada is also home to the River Antoine Distillery, one of the Caribbean’s most traditional rum distilleries, the processes of which have remained largely unchanged since its foundation in 1785. The small independent distillery releases a limited amount of full proof unaged rum for export, distilled from cane syrup boiled down in the estate’s ancient boiling house.

Though other unaged Grenadian rum could be applied for this recipe, River's brings its uniquely untamed flavors to bear in such a fun way here. The nutmeg syrup and lime work in tandem with the Rivers to accentuate the vibrant cane syrup sweetness of the rum in a taste reminiscent of the sweet saline balance of buttercream. This allows the freshly grated nutmeg garnish to complement the overall profile as if the drink were creamy, while it actually remains zippy and fresh. Using a high quality blue curaçao, like the unparalleled Senior brand actually coming from the island of Curaçao, elevates this mix from a wishful boat drink to an evocative homage to the Islands. A potion prepared to transport its sipper to a respite of crystal blue waters, warm breezes, and pleasant ease.

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