El Presidente Cocktail No. 2

Pro tips

• Chill your glass in the freezer for 5 minutes before serving to keep the drink cold longer.
• Stir ingredients over ice for exactly 30 seconds—over-stirring dilutes too much; under-stirring leaves it too warm.
• Add the bitters last and stir gently to distribute evenly; a single dash should be visible on the surface.
• Use fresh ice from a clean freezer to avoid off-flavors that can muddy the delicate vermouth-rum balance.

Substitutions

• Dry Vermouth → Blanc vermouth (lighter, floral notes; slightly less botanical)
• Old Mr. Boston Imported Rum → Aged Jamaican or Cuban rum (adjust for proof and flavor intensity)
• Angostura Bitters → Peychaud's Bitters (spicier, anise-forward profile)

What type of rum works best for El Presidente Cocktail No. 2?

Use an aged or gold rum with depth; Old Mr. Boston Imported Rum or similar aged rums bring warmth and complexity. Avoid light or white rums.

Should El Presidente Cocktail No. 2 be shaken or stirred?

Stir this cocktail with ice for 30 seconds to properly chill and dilute without introducing excess air or foam.

Can I substitute the dry vermouth?

Yes—use any quality dry vermouth (Noilly Prat, Dolin, Carpano). Avoid sweet vermouth, which changes the balance entirely.

What bitters should I use?

Angostura bitters are traditional; Peychaud's or Fee Brothers Old Fashioned bitters work as alternatives.

What glassware is best?

Serve in a chilled coupe glass or cocktail glass for an elegant presentation.