Test Pilot
A potent tiki classic blending dark and light rums with falernum, citrus, and a hint of anise from the iconic Don the Beachcomber era.
- 1½ ozjamaican rum(dark Jamaican preferred)
- ¾ ozwhite rum(Puerto Rican style)
- ½ ozfresh lime juice
- ½ ozfalernum
- ½ ozcointreau
- ⅛ ozabsinthe(about 6 drops, or Pernod)
- 1 dashangostura bitters
- Brandied cherrygarnish
- 1Add all ingredients to a blender with 1 cup crushed ice.
- 2Blend on high speed for 5 seconds.
- 3Pour unstrained into a double old fashioned glass.
- 4Add more crushed ice to fill if needed.
- 5Garnish with a brandied cherry on a pick.
- 6Serve immediately.
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Created by tiki pioneer Donn Beach (Don the Beachcomber) around 1941, the Test Pilot reflects the era's fascination with aviation. This potent blend of rums with falernum, citrus, and Pernod inspired many variations including the Jet Pilot, Ace Pilot, and Space Pilot. The recipe was famously secretive until decoded by Jeff "Beachbum" Berry.
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