Fort Lauderdale Rum Citrus Cocktail
A bright, rum-based cocktail that channels Florida’s sunny spirit with orange, lime, and a touch of vermouth for balance. Refreshing, smooth, and perfect for beachside sipping.

A Taste of the Sunshine State
Light rum, orange, and lime come together in this balanced citrus cocktail with a soft herbal note from sweet vermouth. It’s a classic nod to Florida’s golden coasts and laid-back charm.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Light Rum – smooth tropical base.
- Sweet Vermouth – adds subtle sweetness and herbal depth.
- Orange Juice – fresh and zesty for brightness.
- Lime Juice – sharp acidity for balance.
Equipment
- Shaker
- Old-fashioned glass
- Strainer
Why You’ll Love It
Clean rum flavor lifted by crisp citrus. A perfect afternoon cooler or pre-dinner refresher. Its amber-orange color and easy build make it a dependable crowd-pleaser.
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap light rum for vodka for a cleaner edge.
- Try blood-orange juice for a deeper hue and fruitier flavor.
- Use dry vermouth for less sweetness.
Helpful Tips
Use fresh-squeezed citrus; bottled juice dulls the drink. Garnish with a bright orange slice. Serve cold over plenty of ice.
Fort Lauderdale Recipe
Type of Glass
Whisky Tumbler
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
- 3/4 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
Directions
- Shake Light Rum, Sweet Vermouth, Orange Juice, and Lime Juice with ice.
- Strain into an old-fashioned glass over fresh ice cubes.
- Garnish with an orange slice or twist.
A vivid, simple citrus-rum mix that captures Florida’s relaxed warmth in every glass.