Rum Breeze Cocktail Recipe

The Rum Breeze is a tropical cocktail that embodies the laid-back lifestyle of the Caribbean. Its origins are a bit hazy, but it's believed to have been concocted by beachside bartenders looking to capture the essence of the islands.

• Popularity: This cocktail is a hit among those who enjoy fruity and refreshing drinks.
• Occasions: Perfect for summer parties, beach gatherings, or as a relaxing sundowner.
• Variations: Over time, many variations have emerged, each adding a unique twist to the original recipe.

The Rum Breeze offers a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors, with the cherry and pineapple providing a fruity punch, complemented by the subtle spiciness of ginger ale. The light rum adds a smooth, boozy kick without overpowering the refreshing qualities of the drink.

• The Rum Breeze is often associated with beach vacations and is a staple in many tropical resorts.
• Cruzan® Rum, used in this cocktail, hails from the beautiful island of St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
• The cocktail's vibrant color and garnish make it not only tasty but also visually appealing.

1. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour 1 oz of Cruzan® Black Cherry Rum over the ice.
3. Add 1 oz of Cruzan® Aged Light Rum.
4. Pour in 2 oz of pineapple juice.
5. Top with a splash of ginger ale.
6. Garnish with a lime twist.

• Chill the Glass: Before preparing the cocktail, chill the glass to keep the drink cooler for longer.
• Fresh Juice: Always use fresh pineapple juice for the best flavor.
• Garnish Placement: Twist the lime peel over the drink to release the oils before dropping it in.

Appetizers

• Grilled shrimp skewers: The sweetness of the pineapple and cherry flavors in the cocktail will complement the smokey taste of the shrimp.
• Cheese platter: Specifically choose creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese to balance the cocktail's sweet and tangy profile.

Main Courses

• Jerk chicken: The spicy and savory flavors of the chicken are a wonderful contrast to the Rum Breeze's sweetness.
• Pulled pork sandwiches: The sweetness of the rum can stand up to the rich, savory flavor of the pork.

Desserts

• Tropical fruit salad: Echo the pineapple in the cocktail with a mix of mango, papaya, and pineapple in a salad.
• Coconut-based desserts: Coconut flavors will continue the tropical theme present in the drink.

• Rum: If Cruzan® is not available, any quality black cherry rum and light rum can be used as substitutes.
• Ginger Ale: For a less sweet option, club soda with a dash of ginger syrup can replace ginger ale.

Coconut Rum Breeze

• Substitute the Black Cherry Rum with Coconut Rum.
• Include a splash of coconut cream. This twist will take you on a coconut cloud, giving the drink a creamy, tropical profile that's perfect for pretending you're on a beach instead of your backyard.

Spicy Rum Breeze

• Use ginger beer instead of ginger ale.
• Add a few slices of fresh jalapeño to the mix before adding the ice. The resulting cocktail is a fiery dance, a perfect mix of sweet, spicy, and bubbly. Not for the faint-hearted, but a clear wake-up call for the taste buds.

Berry Breeze

• Swap out the pineapple juice for a mix of berry juices (like raspberry and blackberry).
• Use a lemon twist instead of lime. Sail into a different kind of 'breeze', one that's more Berry Merry than tropical paradise. A bolder, tangier concoction that's as surprising as finding a treasure map at the bottom of your glass.