Torches, palm fronds, and colorful cocktails with umbrellas in them likely come to mind when you think about a tiki party. This South Pacific-inspired movement got its start in Hollywood in the 1930’s with the Don The Beachcomber’s restaurant, and is still popular at restaurants, resorts, and in backyards across the world today. Whether you’re hosting a themed party or want to bring a tropical vacation to a quiet night at home, craft cocktails will be an essential factor.

The Basics of Tiki Craft Cocktails

Its Characteristics

Most tiki cocktails are based on rum, the classic sweet liquor from the tropics. Some of the drinks have up to three different types of rum in them and may include some other liquors such as gin, scotch, or whiskey. The rum is mixed with fruit juices, which complement the sweetness of the rum while smoothly covering the alcohol flavor. Popular juices include orange, pineapple, passion fruit, and guava.

Additional layers of flavor are then added to add depth to the drink, such as other liqueurs and bitters. Finally, a spice or flavor accent is added. Popular options in these cocktails include nutmeg, cinnamon, pomegranate, or an allspice dram.

Popular Craft Cocktails

The most well-known tiki drink is Mai Tai, which features Martinique rhum agricole and dark rum. They are mixed with orgeat syrup (its signature almond syrup), lime juice, and dry curaçao . Garnish it with a lime wheel and a sprig of mint.

The Painkiller is a gorgeous pineapple based cocktail invented by the Pussers Rum Company. This drink features dark rum, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and orange juice.

The Zombie, known as the "Infamous mender of broken dreams", is one of the original early tiki drinks by Don the Beachcomber, the founder of tiki. The 1950's revitalization of this classic tiki cocktail features a dangerous blend of light rum, añejo rum, and dark overproof rums. Along side lime juice, lemon juice, pineapple juice, passion fruit syrup, demerara syrup, and a secret blend of spices that truly give this cocktail life.

Visit Cottonwood Public House to try some tiki craft cocktails in Vicksburg, MS. This downtown brewery and sports bar has a wide selection of mouthwatering food, craft beer, and cocktails. They use only natural and local ingredients. Learn more on their website and call (601) 501-7712 with any questions.