Chinese Cocktail

Pro tips

• Use fresh bitters — dash means 2–3 drops; don't oversaturate or the drink becomes too bitter.
• Stir, don't shake, to chill and dilute gently without aerating; 15–20 seconds over ice is ideal.
• Pour ingredients in order (rum first, then liqueurs, then bitters) so they layer slightly before stirring for balanced flavor.
• Serve immediately after stirring to prevent excessive ice melt and dilution.

Substitutions

• Jamaica Rum → aged or spiced rum (note: flavor profile shifts; use a quality brand)
• Grenadine → pomegranate syrup (note: may be less sweet; adjust to taste)
• Triple Sec → Cointreau or curaçao (note: changes citrus profile slightly)

Equipment

cocktail jigger · bar spoon · rocks glass or coupe glass

What does a Chinese Cocktail taste like?

Sweet and smooth with fruity notes from grenadine and maraschino, rounded out by the spice and complexity of rum and bitters.

Can I use a different rum?

Yes. Jamaican rum adds traditional funk and depth, but aged or spiced rums work well too. Avoid light rums as they lack the needed body.

Do I need to chill the glass?

Chilling improves the drink. Place the glass in the freezer for 2–3 minutes or fill with ice and water while you build the cocktail.

What's the best way to serve this?

Serve as a short drink over ice in a rocks glass, or up in a coupe glass for a more formal presentation.

How much ice should I use?

Fill the glass with large ice cubes or one large cube to minimize dilution while chilling the drink.