Jet Pilot

Cocktails frequently evoke the times in which they were created, and the Jet Age is when this spiced version of the Tiki favorite Test Pilot really took off. In the 1930s and 1940s, the military developed jet engines, and by the 1950s, civilians were traveling in luxury on turbo-powered commercial aircraft.

The Jet Pilot Cocktail: A Tiki Classic ReimaginedA Glimpse into U.S. Aviation and Tiki Culture

The Jet Pilot cocktail emerges from a fascinating era in U.S. aviation history that coincided with the vibrant Tiki craze of the mid-20th century. During this exciting time, exotic cocktails with a South Pacific flair gained popularity, thanks in large part to the inventiveness of Donn Beach, who is frequently referred to as the "godfather of tiki."

In 1934, as Prohibition was coming to an end, Beach opened his iconic bar, Don the Beachcomber, in Los Angeles. His motto, “If you can’t get to paradise, I’ll bring it to you,” perfectly encapsulated the allure of Tiki culture. It was during this time that Beach introduced the Test Pilot cocktail, a rum-centric blend that would pave the way for future Tiki drinks.

The Origins of the Test Pilot

The Test Pilot was crafted around 1941 and featured a delightful mix of rums, Cointreau, falernum, lime juice, Angostura bitters, and Pernod, all blended with crushed ice. This cocktail set the stage for various Jet Age interpretations, including the popular Jet Pilot, which was invented in 1958 at the now-defunct Luau Tiki bar in Beverly Hills, owned by actor Steve Crane.

The Jet Pilot: A Tiki Evolution

The Jet Pilot retains the spirit of its predecessor while introducing unique twists that enhance its flavor profile. Notably, it omits Cointreau in favor of a rich cinnamon syrup, which adds warmth and sweetness to the drink. Additionally, grapefruit juice is incorporated alongside lime juice, creating a refreshing citrus balance.

Key Ingredients

The Jet Pilot cocktail continues the Tiki tradition of blending rums, a hallmark of Donn Beach's creations. It typically combines:

• Overproof Jamaican Rum: Adds depth and complexity.
• Overproof Demerara Rum: Known for its robust flavor, we recommend using Plantation OFTD.
• Gold Rum: Provides a smooth foundation for the mix.
• Freshly Squeezed Grapefruit Juice: Brightens the cocktail with a zesty kick.
• Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice: Enhances the drink's tartness.
• Cinnamon Syrup: Introduces a warm, spicy note.
• Falernum: A spiced almond syrup that enriches the blend.
• Absinthe and Angostura Bitters: A dash of these ingredients rounds out the flavors and adds complexity.

Crafting the Perfect Jet Pilot

To create this delightful Tiki cocktail, follow these simple steps:

Ingredients

• 1 ounce overproof Jamaican rum
• 3/4 ounce overproof Demerara rum (such as Plantation OFTD)
• 3/4 ounce gold rum
• 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
• 3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/2 ounce cinnamon syrup
• 1/2 ounce falernum
• 1 dash away
• 1 dash Angostura bitters
• Garnish: Maraschino cherry (and additional cherries if desired)

Instructions

1. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine all the ingredients with one cup of crushed ice. Blend on high for about five seconds, until everything is well mixed but not completely smooth. This texture is key for a satisfying crushed-ice experience.
2. Serve: Pour the mixture into a double old-fashioned glass, showcasing the vibrant colors of the drink.
3. Garnish: Finish with a maraschino cherry on top and additional cherries if you desire a festive touch.

Conclusion

1. The Jet Pilot cocktail is a fantastic representation of Tiki culture, blending rich flavors and inviting textures that transport you to a tropical paradise. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or simply indulging in a bit of indulgence, this cocktail is sure to impress. Explore the legacy of Donn Beach and celebrate the spirit of the Jet Age with every sip!