Hemingway Special
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Hemingway Special
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.51 / 5
The Hemingway Special is a refreshing and complex cocktail that pays homage to the renowned writer Ernest Hemingway. Known for his love of daiquiris, this twist on the classic incorporates ... more The Hemingway Special is a refreshing and complex cocktail that pays homage to the renowned writer Ernest Hemingway. Known for his love of daiquiris, this twist on the classic incorporates white rum as its base spirit and is brightened with the tangy flavors of lime and grapefruit juices. A touch of maraschino cherry liqueur adds a subtle sweetness and depth, creating a unique balance that distinguishes the cocktail from its traditional counterpart. Typically served in a cocktail glass, the Hemingway Special offers a delightful blend of citrus and sweet notes, perfect for those who appreciate a cocktail with a rich literary legacy and a vibrant taste profile.
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IBA Official Drink
Cocktail Of The Day
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die (Part 2)
Base ingredient
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White rum
Alcohol content
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20.19% | 2.62 units *
Details
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Classic
Shaken

Cocktail glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Lime juice cocktail ingredient
Lime juice
15ml ½oz 1.5cl
White rum cocktail ingredient
White rum
60ml 2oz 6cl
Grapefruit Juice cocktail ingredient
Grapefruit Juice
40 ml 1.35oz 4cl
Maraschino cherry liqueur cocktail ingredient
Maraschino cherry liqueur
15ml ½oz 1.5cl

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

The Hemingway Special truly captures the vibrant yet contradictory character of Ernest Hemingway himself, combining the sharpness of lime juice with the sweet intensity of grapefruit, tempered by the smooth depth of white rum and a hint of maraschino cherry liqueur. This concoction results in a complex cocktail that balances bold tartness with a refined sweet finish, ideal for those who appreciate a drink with sophisticated, layered flavors.

Method
How to make a Hemingway Special

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice
Shake well for 10-15 seconds or until the outside of the shaker becomes frosted
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and serve

Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Shake  ·  Strain  · 

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FAQ's

FAQ

Who created the Hemingway Special?

The Hemingway Special, also known as the Hemingway Daiquiri, was created in honor of the famous writer Ernest Hemingway. It was conceived at the La Floridita bar in Havana, Cuba, by bartender Constantino Ribalaigua, who created it specifically for Hemingway in the 1930s.

FAQ

Why is it called the Hemingway Special?

It's called the Hemingway Special because it was a favorite of Ernest Hemingway. The story goes that Hemingway, upon trying the bar's original daiquiri, asked for one with no sugar and double the rum, which led to the creation of this distinctive cocktail.

FAQ

What makes the Hemingway Special different from a classic Daiquiri?

The Hemingway Special differs from a classic Daiquiri primarily in its inclusion of grapefruit juice and maraschino liqueur, adding a complex balance of bitter and sweet to the cocktail. Additionally, Hemingway's version omitted sugar, which is a key ingredient in the classic Daiquiri.

SERVING_SUGGESTIONS

How should the Hemingway Special be served?

The Hemingway Special is traditionally served in a chilled cocktail glass. It should be shaken with ice until cold and then strained into the glass. This cocktail is not garnished, preserving its pristine and elegant appearance, though some variations may include a lime wheel or maraschino cherry for decoration.

NON_ALCOHOLIC_VARIATIONS

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Hemingway Special?

Yes, a non-alcoholic version of the Hemingway Special can be created by substituting the white rum with a non-alcoholic spirit or white grape juice for a similar flavor profile. For the maraschino liqueur, you can use a cherry syrup or a non-alcoholic maraschino essence, adjusting the amounts to taste.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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