Añejo rumDry vermouthTriple secGrenadine
Proportions by volume. Ice and garnish not shown.

El Presidente

Made with rum, vermouth and triple sec, served in a cocktail glass.

Ingredients for one drink
45 ml / 1.5 ozAñejo rum
20 ml / 0.75 ozDry vermouth
20 ml / 0.75 ozTriple sec, Cointreau
0.5 barspoonGrenadine
1Orange peel, as garnish

Method

  1. Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice.
  2. Stir well until thoroughly chilled.
  3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
  4. Garnish with an orange peel.

About the El Presidente

El Presidente is a sophisticated sour cocktail featuring añejo rum as its base. The combination of dry vermouth, triple sec, and a hint of grenadine creates a balanced, fruity profile with a reddish hue. The orange peel garnish adds a citrus aroma to complement the flavors.

History

The El Presidente originated in Havana during the 1920s-1940s, becoming popular among Cuba's upper class during American Prohibition. It may have been named after President Mario García Menocal or President Gerardo Machado, with conflicting stories about its creation.

El Presidente
Photo: Cocktailmarler,CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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