Little Princess: Classic Rum and Vermouth Cocktail
A light rum classic with vermouth’s gentle sweetness. The Little Princess Cocktail balances spirit and sweetness in regal simplicity—refined, aromatic, and easy to love.

The Little Princess Cocktail blends light rum and sweet vermouth into a smooth, amber-toned drink that’s soft, slightly herbal, and elegant. Thought to date back to the mid-20th century, it shares DNA with rum versions of the Manhattan—light, approachable, and refined.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Light Rum – the crisp, clean base.
- Sweet Vermouth – adds spice and round sweetness.
- Orange Bitters (optional) – brightens and balances.
Equipment
- Mixing glass, bar spoon, strainer, and chilled cocktail glass.
Why You’ll Love It
Delicate but structured, the Little Princess has just enough vermouth to smooth out the rum’s bite. It’s spirit-forward but gentle, making it ideal for anyone easing into classic stirred cocktails.
Variations
- Dry Princess: Swap in dry vermouth for a lighter, herbal edge.
- Royal Twist: Use aged rum instead of light for more depth.
- Citrus Note: Add a lemon twist or dash of curaçao for brightness.
Tips & Serving
Serve well-chilled with a lemon twist or maraschino cherry. Works beautifully as a pre-dinner sipper or relaxed evening drink.
Conclusion: The Little Princess Cocktail proves that minimal ingredients can create maximum sophistication—a rum classic worth rediscovering.
Little Princess Cocktail Recipe
Type of Glass
Cocktail Glass
Ingredients
- 2 oz.
- 1 oz.
- 1 dash
Directions
- Combine Light Rum, Sweet Vermouth, and an optional dash of orange bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir until the mixture is well-chilled, about 20–30 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or maraschino cherry.
The Little Princess Cocktail turns simple ingredients into elegance in a glass—a royal sip for any occasion.