The Hemingway Special is a dry, citrus-forward rum sour built with white rum, yellow grapefruit juice, fresh lime, and a restrained touch of maraschino liqueur. Bright, bracing, and lightly aromatic, it delivers a crisp profile with minimal sweetness and a clean finish.
Add the white rum, grapefruit juice, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice to a shaker filled with ice. Shake until well chilled. Strain into a chilled coupe glass and serve.
Served straight up in a chilled coupe glass, the Hemingway Special appears pale and lightly opaque, with a clean, minimalist presentation that highlights its citrus-driven character.
Pairs well with light seafood dishes, citrus-forward appetizers, and briny flavors that complement its sharp acidity.
The Hemingway Special is recognized by the IBA and is closely associated with rum sours served at Havana’s El Floridita, reflecting Ernest Hemingway’s preference for a drier, less sweet Daiquiri-style drink.
Ideal as a sharp aperitif, for warm-weather drinking, or for classic cocktail menus that favor dry, citrus-driven sours.
Yellow grapefruit provides bright, slightly bitter citrus notes, reinforced by lime acidity. The aeration from shaking creates a light, silky texture that carries the clean character of white rum, while maraschino adds a subtle floral lift.
Dry, precise, and purposeful — a cocktail that emphasizes structure and freshness over sweetness.
The Hemingway Special is traditionally served without modification; using darker rums or sweeter grapefruit varieties significantly alters its intended dry profile.
18%
⚠️ Alcoholic beverage: not suitable for minors, pregnant individuals, or designated drivers. Please enjoy responsibly.
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