El Presidente Cocktail No. 2

Pro tips

• Chill your glass before pouring to maintain temperature without excessive dilution.
• Stir for exactly 30 seconds to achieve proper dilution and temperature without over-watering the spirit-forward profile.
• Use fresh ice and a quality mixing glass; the stirring action matters more than shaking for this style of drink.
• Measure precisely—the 3:1 rum-to-vermouth ratio is critical to balance; free-pouring loses the drink's structure.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Imported Rum → any aged Caribbean rum of similar proof (avoid spiced or flavored rums)
• Dry Vermouth → dry white vermouth from other producers (Noilly Prat or Dolin work similarly)

Equipment

mixing glass · bar spoon · jigger · strainer

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

Old Mr. Boston Imported Rum is traditional, but any aged or gold rum with similar proof and flavor profile works well. Avoid light or dark rums that will overpower the vermouth.

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

Stir this cocktail over ice in a mixing glass for 30 seconds to chill and dilute properly. Straining into a coupe or cocktail glass keeps it smooth and balanced.

Can I make El Presidente Cocktail No. 2 without bitters?

A dash of bitters adds essential depth and complexity. Omitting it results in a flat drink; a single dash is important to the recipe's balance.

What's the difference between El Presidente No. 1 and No. 2?

No. 2 replaces the orgeat and citrus of No. 1 with dry vermouth and bitters, making it a drier, more spirit-forward preparation.

What glassware is best for this cocktail?

Serve in a chilled coupe, Nick and Nora, or small cocktail glass to showcase the drink's clarity and keep it properly chilled.