Bongo Cola

Yes, there is cola in this drink, so the temptation is to view it as a special Rum and Coke. It's more than that. Actually, the Bongo Cola is very tiki-themed. The ugly color of the liquid after juice and liqueurs are added almost requires a tiki mug (pictured left) just to hide the drink. But there's reason to put Bongo Cola on full display--namely it's surprising simplicity and unexpected flavor experience.

The recipe calls for gold rum, but I think any aged rum will do so long as it isn't heavily molasses flavored or spiced. You want the drink to taste light and fizzy, not like Christmas. I used equal parts of Cruzan 151 and white rum to achieve this, and that made it pretty strong.

My own coffee liqueur suffices for that rich cold brew coffee and coke flavor that's made in heaven. Kirschwasser is a curious addition that I think would be more effective if substituted with maraschino liqueur, but I have kirsch so I use it when directed.

• 2 oz. gold rum (Cruzan rums used)
• 1 oz. coffee liqueur
• 2 oz. pineapple juice
• dash kirschwasser
• dash lemon juice
• cola
• maraschino cherry

Combine juice and liquors in a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a chilled highball glass full of fresh ice. Top with cola and stir gently. Garnish with the cherry.