Today’s Morning Show
I’m not much for early shows. However, today I visited the folks at Hawaii News Now on their Sunrise program. Alison with Lei Chic has a biweekly segment and wanted to try some things. I gave them a couple ideas for New Years Eve cocktails with local spirits. The first drink I shared was the Old Cuban. Next, I went with a very simple non-alcoholic drink with the seemingly ever-present elderflower and bubbles. Begrudgingly, I ran out of time and didn’t get to share the most interesting drink I had prepped for. The Bali Hai is truly local and its complex blend of okolehao, local fruit flavors and champagne is remarkable. The tiki New Year is waiting.
Okolehao is a dead liquor from pre-colonized Hawaii. Recently, a local rum maker started making the ti leaf liquor again but has sweetened it up to liqueur status. I’m not too sure about the authenticity of the product but the flavor is interesting. I’ve modified the recipe to fit what I think is a bit tastier.
Bali Hai 1 oz okolehao liqueur 1/2 oz light rum 1/4 oz orange juice 1/4 oz pineapple juice 1/4 oz guava nectar barspoon passion fruit juice 1/4 oz orgeat 3/4 oz lemon juice 2 oz champagne Combine everything but champagne in a shaking tin with crushed ice. Shake and pour into a glass. Top with champagne.Just so there are no questions on the Old Cuban, I’ve attached a recipe.
Old Cuban 1 1/2 oz aged rum 3/4 lime juice 3/4 simple syrup 8-10 mint leaves dash old fashioned bitters 1 oz champagne Shake all ingredients with ice and double strain into glass. Top with champagne.
