Queens Park Swizzle

Trinidad’s Queens Park Hotel may have closed in 1996, but its eponymous drink has endured well into the 21st century. It’s not hard to see why: The icy mix of demerara rum, mint, sugar, lime juice, and Angostura bitters has served as a delicious and eye-catching way to cool off since it debuted at the Port of Spain hotel in the early 20th century. Today, the drink is enjoyed on the island and beyond; the Trinidad-based House of Angostura has even angled to make it Trinidad and Tobago’s national drink.

The Queens Park Swizzle: A Refreshing Caribbean Classic

The Queens Park Swizzle is a vibrant cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of tropical flavors and refreshing ingredients. With a delightful blend of rum, lime juice, sugar, and mint, this drink shares similarities with the Mojito but takes it up a notch by incorporating Angostura bitters, one of Trinidad’s most renowned exports. This aromatic addition lends depth and complexity, making the Queens Park Swizzle a must-try for cocktail enthusiasts.

The Key Ingredients1. Demerara Rum

One of the defining features of the Queens Park Swizzle is its use of demerara rum, which is distilled in Guyana from sugarcane grown along the banks of the Demerara River. This rum is known for its rich, earthy, and caramel-like flavors, offering a slightly smoky finish that distinguishes it from the light rum typically used in Mojitos. For the best results, opt for a high-quality demerara rum such as El Dorado.

2. Fresh Lime Juice

Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a zesty brightness that balances the sweetness of the simple syrup and enhances the overall flavor profile.

3. Mint Leaves

The aromatic mint leaves not only provide a refreshing note but also contribute to the drink's vibrant presentation.

4. Angostura Bitters

These bitters introduce a complex layer of flavor that complements the sweetness and acidity, transforming the cocktail into a more aromatic experience.

5. Simple Syrup

Simple syrup adds the necessary sweetness to round out the cocktail, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.

Crafting the Queens Park SwizzleSteps to Prepare

Follow these steps to create a stunning Queens Park Swizzle that will impress your guests:

1. Muddle the Mint: In a Collins glass, add 8-10 mint leaves and 3/4 ounce simple syrup. Gently muddle the mint leaves to release their essential oils without tearing them apart.
2. Mix the Ingredients: Add 2 ounces of demerara rum, 1 ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters to the glass.
3. Swizzle: Fill the glass nearly full with crushed or pebble ice. Using a swizzle stick or a bar spoon, swizzle the mixture by placing your palms on either side of the stick’s shaft and sliding your hands back and forth. Continue until frost forms on the outside of the glass.
4. Add More Ice: Mound more crushed or pebbled ice above the rim of the glass for a dramatic presentation.
5. Top with Bitters: Finally, add 2 more dashes of Angostura bitters on top to create an eye-catching red layer that contrasts beautifully with the other colors in the drink.
6. Garnish: Finish off your cocktail with a sprig of mint for a fresh and aromatic touch.

The Art of Swizzling

The term "swizzle" refers not only to the drink but also to the technique used to mix it. Traditionally, swizzle sticks were crafted from twigs of forked branches from a Caribbean evergreen tree. Today, you can find swizzle sticks made of wood, metal, or plastic. The swizzling process is crucial for achieving the cocktail's signature frosty exterior and perfectly integrated flavors.

A Cocktail with a Legacy

The Queens Park Swizzle is not just a drink; it's a celebration of Caribbean culture and cocktail craftsmanship. Tiki legend Trader Vic once declared it “the most delightful form of anesthesia given out today” in 1946, highlighting its refreshing and enjoyable nature.

Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply looking to enjoy a taste of the tropics, the Queens Park Swizzle is an excellent choice. Its combination of flavors, vibrant presentation, and rich history make it a standout in the world of cocktails.

Conclusion

With its refreshing mint, zesty lime, and the rich complexity of demerara rum, the Queens Park Swizzle is a delightful cocktail that will transport you to the Caribbean with each sip. Perfect for any occasion, this drink is not only easy to make but also a visual showstopper. Try it at your next gathering and experience why this classic cocktail has stood the test of time. Let us celebrate!