THE HISTORY OF THE EL PRESIDENTE COCKTAIL

The El Presidente Cocktail is one of the most elegant drinks to come out of pre-revolutionary Cuba, with roots dating back to the 1910s or 1920s. It quickly rose to popularity in Havana’s golden era, especially during American Prohibition, when thirsty travelers flocked to Cuban bars like El Floridita and the Hotel Nacional for well-made cocktails.

Named in honor of President Gerardo Machado (or, in some accounts, President Mario García Menocal), the El Presidente was the Cuban answer to the Manhattan — but with a lighter, tropical profile thanks to the use of white rumand orange liqueur instead of whiskey and sweet vermouth.

Its composition is simple but refined: Cuban-style white rum, dry vermouth, orange curaçao/triple sec, and a touch of grenadine. The balance between the dry vermouth and the orange liqueur gives the drink its trademark sophistication — floral, crisp, and just a hint sweet.

Though it fell into obscurity for a while, the El Presidente Cocktail has made a strong comeback thanks to the modern craft cocktail revival, especially among those who appreciate low-sugar, stirred rum drinks that showcase elegance over punch.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT RUM FOR THE EL PRESIDENTE

While the original recipes were built on Cuban rum, today’s restrictions mean we often work with Cuban-style white rums — light in body but full of character. Brands like Probitas (a blend of Jamaican and Barbadian rum) or Diplomático Planas offer great alternatives to Havana Club 3 Años, which remains the benchmark if legally available in your country.

A good dry vermouth is also essential — go for the Dolin Vermouth de Chambéry BLANC if you want to get close as possible to the historical recipe.

As for the orange curaçao, a high-quality bottle like Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao will  do the job. But in the El Presidente Cocktail I prefer a Cointreau.

And finally: the grenadine. A small touch goes a long way. If possible, use homemade or a quality craft version — the goal is color and a hint of pomegranate, not sugary syrup.

A TASTE OF OLD HAVANA

The El Presidente Cocktail is more than just a drink — it’s a glimpse into the glamour and sophistication of 1920s Havana. It’s a cocktail that rewards restraint and precision, showcasing the subtlety of well-chosen ingredients.

Perfect for warm evenings, elegant gatherings, or anyone who wants to explore the world of Cuban rum cocktails beyond daiquiris and mojitos, the El Presidente is a classic that deserves a permanent place on the home bar menu.

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