Every July 19th, cocktail enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike come together to celebrate National Daiquiri Day—a day dedicated to the iconic, refreshing cocktail that perfectly embodies the spirit of summer. Whether you prefer yours classic, frozen, or with a fruity twist, the daiquiri offers a delightful blend of simplicity and sophistication that has cemented its place in the hearts (and glasses) of many.


The History of the Daiquiri

The daiquiri's origins can be traced back to the early 20th century in Cuba. Named after the town of Daiquirí, this cocktail was reportedly invented by an American mining engineer named Jennings Cox during the Spanish-American War. With limited resources, Cox combined rum, lime, and sugar—ingredients abundant in the Caribbean—to create a simple yet refreshing drink that quickly became popular.


The daiquiri gained international fame in the 1940s thanks to Ernest Hemingway, who developed a penchant for the drink while living in Cuba. Hemingway’s love for the daiquiri even led to a special variation named after him: the Hemingway Daiquiri, which includes grapefruit juice and maraschino liqueur, adding a unique twist to the classic recipe.


Crafting the Perfect Daiquiri

The beauty of the daiquiri lies in its simplicity. The classic recipe calls for just three ingredients: rum, lime juice, and simple syrup. Here’s how you can make your own perfect daiquiri at home:


Ingredients:


2 oz Plantation 3 Stars Silver Rum

1 oz Mixer Lime juice

3/4 oz Monin Sugar Cane syrup


Method:

Fill a shaker with ice.

Add the rum, lime juice, and simple syrup.

Shake well until chilled.

Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge.

For those who enjoy a frozen treat, simply blend the ingredients with ice to create a slushy version that’s perfect for hot summer days.


Daiquiri Variations to Try

While the classic daiquiri is timeless, the cocktail’s versatility has inspired countless variations. Here are a few popular ones to consider:


1. Strawberry Daiquiri: Blend fresh strawberries with the classic ingredients for a sweet, fruity twist.


2. Mango Daiquiri: Use ripe mangoes to add a tropical flair to your drink.


3. Hemingway Daiquiri: Add grapefruit juice and maraschino liqueur to the original mix for a tart and slightly bitter flavour profile.


4. Banana Daiquiri: Blend in a ripe banana for a creamy, tropical delight.


Celebrating National Daiquiri Day

National Daiquiri Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in this refreshing cocktail. Whether you're hosting a summer party, enjoying a quiet evening at home, or having a virtual happy hour with friends, here are some fun ways to celebrate:


1. Daiquiri Tasting Party: Host a tasting party with different variations of daiquiris. Offer a range of flavours and let guests vote on their favourites.


2. Virtual Mixology Class: Join an online mixology class or watch tutorial videos to learn new daiquiri recipes and techniques.


3. DIY Daiquiri Bar: Set up a DIY daiquiri bar with various fruits, syrups, and rums. Let everyone create their own custom daiquiris.


4. Toast to History: Raise a glass and toast to the rich history and cultural significance of the daiquiri.


Fun Facts About the Daiquiri

Hemingway’s Favourite: Ernest Hemingway’s favourite spot to enjoy a daiquiri was El Floridita, a famous bar in Havana, Cuba.

Presidential Approval: U.S. President John F. Kennedy was known to enjoy daiquiris, particularly during his time in the Navy.

Nobel Laureate Influence: William Faulkner was another literary giant who had a fondness for daiquiris.


National Daiquiri Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate a cocktail that has stood the test of time. Whether you’re a purist who loves the classic recipe or an adventurer who enjoys experimenting with new flavours, there’s a daiquiri for everyone. So, grab your shaker, pick your favourite ingredients, and raise a glass to this beloved cocktail. Cheers to National Daiquiri Day!


We hope you enjoyed our blog post! If you can’t find the perfect rum, then make sure to check out our full range of fantastic rums here. We also have a great range of tiki mugs and cocktail equipment. Be sure to tag us on Facebook or Instagram @Irishdrinkshop this #DaiquiriDay. We’d love to see your fabulous creations! Slainté!