Rum Swizzle

According to its late 19th-century origins, a Rum Swizzle combines dark rum, pineapple juice, ginger ale, and aromatic bitters. The mixture is traditionally served over ice to create a highly refreshing, carbonated beverage.

This specific variation of the Rum Swizzle traces its origins back to the late 19th century at the Palmer House Hotel in Chicago. It emerged during an era of elaborate hotel bar programs in the American Midwest.

The term 'swizzle' refers to the traditional Caribbean method of mixing drinks using a specialized swizzle stick, which is a branch with multiple prongs spun rapidly between the palms. While the Palmer House version relies on ginger ale for carbonation, true swizzling naturally chills and dilutes the drink.

The traditional 19th-century recipe specifically calls for dark rum to provide a deep, rich flavor. This dark spirit stands up perfectly to the sweet pineapple juice and the spicy notes of the ginger ale and bitters.