Bajan Rum Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Bajan Rum Old Fashioned Cocktail swaps whiskey for bold Barbadian rum, balanced with demerara syrup and bitters. A simple island twist on the classic Old Fashioned.
Smooth, spirit-forward, and island-inspired, the Bajan Rum Old Fashioned Cocktail blends Barbadian rum with demerara syrup and bitters. This take on the classic Old Fashioned trades whiskey’s sharpness for rum’s warmth, creating a drink that feels both familiar and distinctly Caribbean.
Background
The Old Fashioned dates back to the 1800s and is considered the blueprint for cocktails. Barbados, often called the birthplace of rum, adds its own identity by using aged rum in place of whiskey. This Bajan twist preserves the structure of the classic while showcasing the island’s renowned sugarcane spirit.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Barbadian Rum – full-bodied backbone, aged for depth.
- Demerara Syrup – adds rich caramel sweetness.
- Angostura Bitters – layers of spice and herbal balance.
- Orange Bitters – bright citrus lift.
- Orange Peel – optional garnish for aroma.
Equipment
- Mixing glass
- Bar spoon
- Jigger
- Strainer
- Rocks glass
- Large ice cube
Island Simplicity in a Glass
This cocktail stands out because it swaps whiskey’s boldness for rum’s rounded sweetness, making it approachable yet complex. Its subtle citrus and spice notes tie it to the Caribbean without losing the Old Fashioned’s timeless sophistication.
Substitutions & Variations
- Rum: Try Jamaican rum for a spicier edge or Puerto Rican rum for a lighter profile.
- Syrup: Brown sugar syrup works in a pinch; maple syrup adds an earthy depth.
- Bitters: Experiment with chocolate bitters or spiced aromatic bitters for extra character.
- Garnish: Lemon peel or a brandied cherry can replace orange for a new twist.
Helpful Tips
- Use one large ice cube to slow dilution.
- Express the oils from the orange peel over the glass rim before dropping it in.
- Batch the syrup ahead of time so you’re ready for multiple rounds.
- Pairs well with grilled seafood, jerk chicken, or aged cheese platters.
Rum Old Fashioned (Bajan Style) Recipe
Type of Glass
Rocks Glass
Ingredients
- 2 oz.
- 1/4 oz.
- 2 dashes
- 1 dash
Directions
- Add the demerara syrup and bitters to a mixing glass.
- Pour in the Barbadian rum.
- Fill the glass with ice and stir until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Optional: Twist an orange peel over the drink to release oils, then drop it in.
A timeless Old Fashioned, reimagined with Barbadian rum for a smooth island finish.
