Two ingredients—dark rum and cherry brandy—are stirred with ice and served in an old-fashioned glass to make the Veteran. The molasses richness and smoky depth of the dark rum meet the sweet, fruit-forward character of the cherry brandy, yielding a warming, full-flavored short drink. At near 29 percent ABV it is firmly spirit-forward, its strength matched by a dignified simplicity in keeping with the name. With no shaking, dilution beyond the ice, or garnish, it relies entirely on the interplay of its two components, an unpretentious build for a substantial pour.

Veteran cocktail in a old-fashioned glass — made with Dark Rum and Cherry Brandy

Veteran

难度 Easy
热量 ~181 kcal
ABV 28.70%

原料

调制步骤

Pour the rum and cherry brandy into an old-fashioned glass almost filled with ice cubes. Stir well.

Strong Classic

Veteran是一款简单的双料鸡尾酒,以黑朗姆酒和樱桃白兰地搅拌加冰后盛于古典杯中。黑朗姆酒的糖蜜丰富感和烟熏深度与樱桃白兰地甜蜜、果香十足的特质相映成趣,共同造就一款温暖而风味饱满的短饮。这是一款直接而不失庄重的鸡尾酒,以烈酒为核心的风格与其名称所象征的精神完美契合。

History & Origins

The Veteran is a classic cocktail of disputed origin, appearing in mid-20th century bartending guides as a short, stirred rum cocktail. Its two-ingredient simplicity reflects an older style of cocktail construction before the widespread adoption of fresh citrus and elaborate garnishes. The name evokes durability and tradition, qualities befitting a drink of this straightforward, enduring character.

Tasting Notes

Aroma: Dark rum's molasses, vanilla, and a hint of smoke alongside cherry brandy's sweet, stone-fruit character. Palate: Rich and warming, with dark rum's complexity — caramel, oak, and molasses — complemented by cherry brandy's sweet, slightly tart fruit; the combination is indulgent and satisfying. Finish: Long, warm, and sweet with lingering rum molasses and cherry.

molasses cherry warming rich dark

Pro Tip

Use a quality aged dark rum like Appleton or Mount Gay to ensure the rum's character can match the sweetness of the cherry brandy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are in the Veteran cocktail?

The Veteran is a simple two-ingredient cocktail made with dark rum and cherry brandy, stirred with ice and served in an old-fashioned glass. The proportions typically favor dark rum, with cherry brandy added as an accent.

What does the Veteran cocktail taste like?

The Veteran is full-flavored and warming, with dark rum's molasses richness, caramel depth, and occasional smokiness forming the backbone, complemented by cherry brandy's sweet, stone-fruit character. It is a direct, short drink with considerable richness and no diluting mixers.

Is the Veteran cocktail served over ice?

Yes, the Veteran is stirred with ice and served in an old-fashioned glass, typically with ice in the glass as well. The cold temperature moderates the intensity of the combined spirits, though the drink remains spirit-forward and warming by nature.

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