A summer version of the classic Old Fashioned, the Treacle combines the rich flavours of dark rum with bright and tangy apple juice.
Invented in the 90s by legendary London bartender Dick Bradsell, the Treacle came about during the time where Slippery Nipples were all the rage. The acceptance of a spirit-forward drink using the molasses-heavy rum is a testament to Bradsell's magical touch.
I'm not a big rum drinker myself and when I do use this spirit, I tend to opt for spiced rum. So to recreate this cocktail, I had to go out and buy a bottle. The Treacle is a twist on the popular Old Fashioned, and as such doesn't contain too many ingredients. Therefore the rum is very up front. If you are able to, I'd recommend playing around with a few different brands to find what you like. The Difford's Guide recipe uses overproof rum, which contains a higher proportion of alcohol. I'd guess this is for both flavour and texture in the drink, however regular rums work just as well in my opinion.
The Treacle is a cocktail ready in a couple of minutes, and requires minimal technique to make. The wonderful tanginess of a higher quality (even freshly squeezed) apple juice shifts this drink from a winter classic into the perfect summery bev. With Christmas just over one week away, I can envision this drink as a wonderful Christmas eve sip. Mellowing you out the night before the big festivities really kick off.
Watch my video here. Make this one and tag me in it! Go on!
Treacle
Ingredients
- 60 mL dark rum
- 10 mL sugar syrup
- 2-3 dashes angostura bitters
- 15 mL apple juice
- Orange twist to garnish
Instructions
- In the base of a cocktail mixing glass, add rum, sugar syrup and bitters. Add ice cubes and stir to chill.
- Strain into a rocks glass with a large ice cube.
- Gently float the apple juice on top.
- Garnish with a twist of orange.
After more festive drinks? Try my classic eggnog or elderflower martini.
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