Beach BumCocktail recipe
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Beach Bum is an easygoing highball built around white rum and bright citrus, the kind of breezy mixed drink you’ll spot wherever simple, sun-ready serves are the order of the day. Rather than a cocktail with a fixed, widely documented origin story, it sits comfortably in the modern “beach drink” tradition: light rum lengthened with a fizzy mixer and finished with fresh fruit for extra lift and aroma.
You’ll find the white rum brings a clean, lightly sweet backbone that stays crisp instead of heavy. Lemonade stretches that rum into a long, sparkling sip, adding sweetness and a zesty tang that keeps everything refreshing. The half orange contributes juicy citrus sweetness and a soft, rounded fruitiness, while the lemon wedge sharpens the finish with a final squeeze of bright acidity that makes the whole drink taste snappier.
This is a natural fit for warm afternoons, poolside hangs, and casual get-togethers when you want something tall, simple, and crowd-pleasing. If you like rum drinks that stay light and citrus-forward—more refreshing than boozy—you’ll feel right at home with it in a highball.
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Cocktail Colin says:
White rum leads with a clean, lightly sweet backbone, while lemonade brings brisk fizz and tang, and the squeezed orange half adds juicy, rounded citrus; the lemon wedge sharpens the finish with a quick, zesty snap. It works because the lemonade’s acidity and bubbles lift the rum and keep the orange from feeling heavy, ideal for easy sipping by anyone who likes bright, uncomplicated citrus highballs.
Method
How to make a Beach Bum
- White rum 75ml, Lemonade 75ml, Orange Half , Lemon Wedge
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- Add a few ice cubes to the highball glass
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- Squeeze half an orange (to produce about 75ml of juice) and pour it into the glass, to fill to about one third of the glass
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- Add the Bacardi, to fill about two thirds
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- Squeeze in a little lemon juice, top the glass up with lemonade, stir well and serve
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FAQ's
What is the ideal way to serve the Beach Bum cocktail?
The Beach Bum cocktail is best served in a highball glass with plenty of ice. Given its cold and refreshing nature, ensure the drink is thoroughly chilled before serving. Stirring rather than shaking preserves the carbonation of the lemonade, offering a crisp texture.
Can I substitute a different type of rum in the Beach Bum cocktail?
Yes, while white rum is specified for the Beach Bum, you can experiment with different types of rum. Dark rum will give a richer flavor, while spiced rum could add an interesting twist. The key is maintaining the balance between the sweetness of the orange and lemonade and the strength of the rum.
What garnishes work well with the Beach Bum cocktail?
For the Beach Bum, a citrus twist or a small umbrella can enhance its beachy vibe. A slice of orange or a lemon wheel on the rim of the glass also complements the citrus flavors within the drink and adds to its visual appeal.
How does the alcohol content of the Beach Bum compare to other cocktails?
With an alcohol content of 20%, the Beach Bum falls into the moderate range of cocktail strengths. It's stronger than light cocktails like a Mimosa (around 10%), but less potent than a Martini or Old Fashioned, which can exceed 30% alcohol by volume. It's ideally balanced for those who enjoy a noticeable but not overwhelming alcohol presence.
What occasions are best suited for serving the Beach Bum cocktail?
The Beach Bum, with its refreshing and tropical profile, is perfect for summer gatherings, beach parties, or any casual events where a light and refreshing drink would be appreciated. Its laid-back nature suits relaxed environments and sunny days.
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