A Night in Old Mandalay - A Timeless Cocktail Adventure

This cocktail captures the essence of a leisurely evening spent in good company, whether on a sun-soaked veranda or at a cozy bar. The fusion of two distinct rums with fresh citrus and the zing of ginger ale creates a multifaceted taste experience. Each sip carries layers of flavor that evolve from sweet to zesty to spicy, making it a captivating choice for both new cocktail enthusiasts and seasoned sippers. Plus, the simplicity of its preparation means you can effortlessly impress your guests without spending hours behind the bar.

A Night in Old Mandalay Recipe

The name "A Night in Old Mandalay" evokes the mystique and allure of Mandalay, the last royal capital of Myanmar (Burma) and a name immortalized in literature and poetry. While the precise origins of this cocktail are hazy, its combination of tropical and citrus flavors is reminiscent of colonial-era drinks that mingled Eastern exoticism with Western tastes. It's a cocktail that celebrates the fusion of robust rum and vibrant citrus juices, offering a refreshing drink that transports you to a bygone era of elegance and discovery.

What You'll Need to Make the Recipe

Light Rum: Acts as the foundation with its mild sweetness and light flavor profile, allowing other ingredients to shine through without overpowering them.

Anejo Rum: This aged rum adds a depth of flavor and a hint of caramel or vanilla notes, providing complexity to the cocktail.

Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice offers a natural sweetness and bright citrus flavor that balances the weight of the rums.

Lemon Juice: The tartness of lemon juice adds a zesty dimension, accentuating the other citrus elements and providing a refreshing contrast.

Ginger Ale: Topping the drink with ginger ale introduces a spicy effervescence that lifts the cocktail, adding a bubbly finish and a hint of ginger spice.

Substitutions

  • Light Rum: Can be substituted with white rum if a slightly stronger flavor is desired.
  • Anejo Rum: If unavailable, a good quality dark rum can provide a similar depth of flavor.

A Night in Old Mandalay Recipe

Type of Glass

Highball Glass

Ingredients

  • 1 oz.
  • 1 oz. Anejo Rum
  • 1 oz.
  • 1/2 oz.
  • 3 oz. Ginger Ale
  • 1 Lemon Twist

Directions

  1. In a shaker half-filled with ice cubes, combine the light rum, anejo rum, orange juice, and lemon juice. 
  2. Shake well. 
  3. Strain into a highball glass almost filled with ice cubes.
  4. Top with the ginger ale. 
  5. Garnish with the lemon twist.