Caveman Cocktail Recipe

Caveman Nutrition Facts

Calories:~250

Fat:0g

Protein:0g

Carbohydrates:~10g

Alcohol:~30%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

History

The Caveman cocktail is a robust concoction that harkens back to the primal roots of mixology. It's a drink that's as straightforward as it gets, combining the strength of three different spirits with the sweet reprieve of cola. It's a favorite among those who appreciate a stiff drink with a smooth finish, often enjoyed by patrons looking for something with a bit of a kick that won't knock them off their feet.

  • Originated as a variation of the classic Thunderclap
  • The addition of cola makes it more palatable and accessible
  • Often chosen by those who enjoy the depth of blended spirits

How Caveman Tastes?

The Caveman cocktail offers a potent, warming sensation with each sip. The blend of brandy, gin, and whiskey creates a complex base that is both fiery and bold. The cola adds a caramel-like sweetness, balancing the strong alcohol flavors and providing a smooth, velvety finish.

Interesting facts about Caveman

  • The Caveman cocktail's name suggests a primitive simplicity, yet its flavors are anything but basic.
  • It's a popular choice for a nightcap due to its strong spirits and soothing cola finish.
  • The cocktail is versatile and can be adjusted to suit different tastes by varying the proportions of the spirits.

Ingredients

A few good options for Caveman are:

  • Brockmans
  • Silent Pool Gin
  • Hendrick's Gin

Learn everything on which Gin to choose

Brandy

Brandy adds a sweet and fruity warmth to the cocktail, blending well with the spiciness of the whiskey. Opting for less than 1 oz could make the drink less aromatic, while more might overpower the balance. An alternative like cognac would add even more depth.

Emma Rose

Gin

Gin introduces herbal notes that can add complexity and freshness. Too little gin, and you might miss its botanical nuances; too much, and it could overshadow other spirits. A milder alternative like vodka would make for a smoother drink.

Alex Green

Whiskey

With its smoky, oaky flavors, whiskey imparts depth and a sense of tradition. Less whiskey might make the drink too light, whereas more might turn it too heavy. Bourbon could be a sweeter alternative if preferred.

Mary Mitkina

Cola

Cola provides the sweet effervescence that balances the strong flavors of the spirits while adding a touch of caramel. Different brands will bring slight variations, with some offering a more vanilla or cinnamon accent. Use sparingly for a stronger cocktail or more for a smoother, lighter one.

Emma Rose

Ice Cubes

Besides chilling the drink, ice slightly dilutes the concoction, mellowing the intensity of the alcohol. No ice means a warmer and potentially overpowering drink. Crushed ice will chill the drink faster but also dilute it more quickly.

Alex Green

Recipe. How to make Caveman Drink

  1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
  2. Pour in the brandy, gin, and whiskey.
  3. Shake well until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
  4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with fresh ice cubes.
  5. Top with cola to fill the glass.
  6. Stir gently and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

  • For a smoother taste, consider using a premium cola or a cola syrup.
  • Chill the glass beforehand to keep the cocktail colder for longer.
  • A lemon twist garnish can add a zesty aroma and a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

  • Grilled Meats: The robust flavors of brandy, gin, and whiskey complement the richness of grilled steaks or barbecued ribs perfectly.
  • Burgers: A hearty Caveman cocktail with cola can stand up to the savory juiciness of a classic burger.
  • Spicy Foods: The sweetness of the cola can help balance out the heat of spicy dishes.

Drink Pairings

  • Coffee: Enjoying a bitter, black coffee alongside the Caveman could provide a contrasting flavor profile.
  • Water: As with any alcohol-rich drink, it's wise to pair it with water to stay hydrated.

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What you could change in Caveman

  • Brandy: Any good quality VS or VSOP brandy can be used.
  • Gin: A London dry gin is preferred for its crispness, but feel free to use an American or New Western style for a different twist.
  • Whiskey: A blended Scotch or bourbon works well, but rye whiskey can add a spicier note.

Explore all drinks starting with C here

And of course - twists🍹

Smoky Caveman

  • Replace whiskey with a peated Scotch for an intense smoky profile.
  • Recipe remains the same, but expect a bold smokiness that might transport you back to a roaring fire in a prehistoric cave.

Herbal Caveman

  • Infuse the gin with a sprig of rosemary or a few basil leaves for a herbal twist.
  • Shake the infused gin with the rest of the spirits and proceed as normal. The result is a garden-fresh dimension that'll perk up the senses.

Citrus Caveman

  • Add a splash of orange liqueur and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
  • This version brightens up the drink with citrus notes, cutting through the richness and adding a tangy zestiness perfect for summer evenings.

In case you forgot basics how to make Caveman

Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.

Learn everything on how to shake

Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.

Learn everything on how to strain

Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.

Learn everything on how to stir

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Frequently Asked Questions on Caveman

What type of glass is best for serving a Caveman cocktail?

A highball glass is typically used for Caveman cocktails to accommodate the ice and the cola top-up, providing a balanced presentation and adequate space for mixing.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Caveman cocktail?

While the Caveman cocktail is known for its blend of spirits, a non-alcoholic version could substitute the alcoholic components with non-alcoholic brandy, gin, and whiskey flavored syrups, topped with cola.

Is the Caveman cocktail suitable for batch preparation?

Yes, you can mix the brandy, gin, and whiskey in a larger quantity in advance and chill it. When ready to serve, pour over ice and top with cola in individual glasses.

How can I make a Caveman cocktail if I don't have a shaker?

You can build the drink directly in the glass by adding the ice and pouring in the brandy, gin, and whiskey, stirring well before topping with cola.

What is the ideal occasion for serving a Caveman cocktail?

The Caveman cocktail, with its bold and warming profile, is perfect for a casual get-together, BBQs, or any event where a strong, spirit-forward beverage would be appreciated.

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