El Presidente Cocktail No. 2

Pro tips

• Stir over ice for exactly 30 seconds to chill and lightly dilute without creating excess water.
• Use quality dry vermouth (French or Italian)—it's 25% of the drink and directly impacts flavor.
• Add bitters last and stir briefly after—they integrate better than when combined before chilling.
• Serve immediately in a pre-chilled glass; this spirit-forward drink warms quickly and loses balance.

Substitutions

• Light Rum → Gold Rum (adds subtle caramel notes, shifts flavor profile slightly deeper)
• Dry Vermouth → Blanc Vermouth (introduces mild sweetness and herbal complexity)
• Angostura Bitters → Peychaud's Bitters (delivers spicier, slightly licorice-forward character)

Equipment

mixing glass · bar spoon · jigger or measuring spoon · cocktail strainer · coupe or cocktail glass

What type of rum should I use for El Presidente No. 2?

Light (white) rum is essential—it keeps the drink crisp and aromatic without overpowering the vermouth.

What bitters work best in this cocktail?

Angostura bitters are traditional and most widely available; Peychaud's also works well for a slightly spicier profile.

Should this cocktail be shaken or stirred?

Stir this cocktail with ice for 30 seconds to properly chill and dilute it without aerating or over-diluting.

Can I make this cocktail without bitters?

Bitters add essential complexity and balance; omitting them significantly flattens the drink's flavor.

What glassware is best for serving?

A coupe or cocktail glass keeps the drink chilled and presents it elegantly; strain into the glass after stirring with ice.