Summer is about simplicity, and the classic Daiquiri is among the easiest and most satisfying cocktails in the canon. For more than a century, this simple combo of rum, sugar and lime juice has freely lent itself to creative permutations, with fresh fruits, liqueurs and other flavorful ingredients bolstering its basic formula in countless ways. “Rum, sugar and lime is such a foundational combination of ingredients, and so easy for people to imbibe,” says Nick Detrich, co-owner of Manolito in New Orleans, a bar built around the concept of the Daiquiri. “Bartenders test other bartenders on the Daiquiri—it works in a number of different ways, so you can put your own spin on it. Different rums, different raw materials, different ratios.” Here are 12 variations on the classic.
Cardamom Daiquiri
Two types of rum and a few dashes of cardamom bitters brighten up this take on the Daiquiri.
Calvados Daiquiri
The Daiquiri gets a Gallic spin by way of apple brandy from Normandy.
Champagne Daiquiri
Leftover bubbly gets put to good use in this Daiquiri riff.
Cold Front Daiquiri
A simple combo of spiced syrup, lime and aged rum.
Downtown Daiquiri
Coconut water and pineapple gum syrup transform the classic Daiquiri.
Hemingway Daiquiri
Grapefruit juice and maraschino liqueur set this classic apart.
Islay Daiquiri
Smoky scotch adds extra depth to this riff.
Parasol
Pineapple brightens this delicious take on a Banana Daiquiri.
Pineapple Daiquiri
With a dose of pineapple rum in play, this recipe from New Orleans is a simple pleasure.
Scandinavian Daiquiri
The classic Daiquiri with aquavit instead of rum.
Strawberry Daiquiri (JL remix)
A seasonal revamp with new layers of flavor.
White Negroni Daiquiri
A delicious mashup of two classics.
