Zombie
cocktailrumstrongfruitysweet

Zombie

Dive into the tropical depths of the Zombie cocktail, a potent blend of rums that promises a fruity explosion with every sip! Perfect for those who dare to embrace the night, this vibrant drink will transport you to a sun-soaked paradise, leaving you craving more.

5 min
medium
highball glass

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 oz Rum
  • 1 1/2 oz Gold rum
  • 1 oz 151 proof rum
  • 1 tsp Pernod
  • 1 tsp Grenadine
  • 1 tsp Lime Juice
  • 1 drop Angostura Bitters

Instructions

  1. 1

    Blend at high speed for no more than 5 seconds

  2. 2

    Pour into a glass, add ice cubes to fill, then add the garnish

  3. 3

    *Donn’s mix: Bring 3 crushed cinnamon sticks, 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water to a boil, stirring until the sugar is dissolved

  4. 4

    Simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from the heat and let sit for at least 2 hours before straining into a clean glass bottle

  5. 5

    Then add 1 part of the syrup and 2 parts of fresh grapefruit juice together.

Pro Tip

For the best Zombie cocktail, use freshly squeezed lime juice and high-quality rums. Don't skimp on the Donn's mix; it's the secret ingredient that ties all the flavors together!

The Story Behind the Zombie

The Zombie cocktail was created in the late 1930s by Donn Beach, the founding father of tiki culture. Originally crafted to help a hungover customer get through a business meeting, the drink's potent mix of rums and tropical flavors quickly gained popularity. Its name comes from the 'zombie-like' state it could induce if consumed in excess!

What Pairs Well

Food Pairings

  • 🍽️
    Grilled Pineapple Skewers

    The caramelized sweetness of grilled pineapple complements the fruity notes of the Zombie cocktail perfectly.

  • 🍽️
    Coconut Shrimp

    The crispy, tropical flavors of coconut shrimp pair beautifully with the rum-based Zombie, enhancing its island vibes.

  • 🍽️
    Spicy Jerk Chicken

    The bold, spicy flavors of jerk chicken are balanced by the sweet and fruity profile of the Zombie cocktail.

Perfect For

  • Tiki-Themed Backyard Party

    The Zombie cocktail is a must-have for any tiki-themed gathering, bringing tropical flair to your backyard bash.

  • Halloween Bash

    With its spooky name and potent punch, the Zombie is the perfect cocktail for a Halloween celebration.

  • Beach Bonfire Night

    Enjoy the tropical flavors of the Zombie cocktail while relaxing by a beach bonfire, soaking in the island vibes.

  • Pirate-Themed Adventure

    Channel your inner pirate with a Zombie cocktail in hand, perfect for a swashbuckling adventure.

Fun Facts

  • The Zombie cocktail was originally limited to two per customer due to its high alcohol content.

  • Donn Beach, the creator of the Zombie, kept the original recipe a secret for many years, adding to its mystique.

  • The Zombie is a staple in tiki bars worldwide, known for its complex blend of flavors and potent kick.

Make This Drink with Tom or Tina

Watch our bartenders mix it up with fun animations!