Palmetto Cocktail in a coupe with a cocktail cherry

Cocktail

Palmetto

How to make a Palmetto - the spirit-forward classic of dark rum and sweet vermouth with orange bitters. Like a Manhattan, but with rum.

4 minPrep time
easyDifficulty
CoupeGlass
1Serving(s)

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The Palmetto is an elegant, spirit-forward classic from the early cocktail era and is considered a Manhattan with rum. Dark rum and sweet vermouth merge into a rounded, slightly sweet drink that a few dashes of orange bitters finish off nicely. An underrated aperitif for rum lovers.

Instructions

  1. Add rum, sweet vermouth and orange bitters to a mixing glass with ice cubes.
  2. Stir cold for about 20 seconds.
  3. Strain into a pre-chilled coupe.
  4. Garnish with a cocktail cherry and serve.

Garnish: Cocktail cherry

Pro tip: Use an aromatic, aged rum - it gives the drink more depth than a neutral white rum.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Palmetto?

The Palmetto is a classic cocktail of dark rum and sweet vermouth, essentially a rum-based Manhattan.

Which rum works best?

An aged, aromatic dark rum pairs ideally with the sweet red vermouth.

How can I vary the Palmetto?

With Angostura instead of orange bitters it becomes stronger and spicier in flavor.

Ingredients

  • Dark rum4.5 cl
  • Sweet vermouth (Vermouth Rosso)4.5 cl
  • Orange bitters2 dashes
  • Cocktail cherry1 piece
  • Ice cubes for stirringas needed