Zombie (1934)
A powerful multi‑rum tiki classic with citrus, spice, and intensity.
Base spirit
Rum
Style
Tiki
Glassware
Tiki mug
Don the Beachcomber’s 1934 Zombie blends three rums with citrus, grenadine, cinnamon, and secret syrups for a layered, high‑proof cocktail. Served over crushed ice, it shifts from sharp and aromatic to smooth as dilution sets in. Its balanced aggression made it the most famous early tiki drink.
Ingredients
Servings
- • 1 oz Jamaican rum
- • 1 oz Puerto Rican rum
- • 1 oz Demerara rum
- • 0.75 oz lime
- • 0.5 oz grapefruit
- • 0.5 oz cinnamon syrup
- • 0.25 oz grenadine
- • 2 dashes absinthe
Did you know?
“Beachbum Berry uncovered original Zombie specs after decades of secrecy, documenting how Donn Beach forced bartenders to mix from coded bottles.”
Source:Beachbum Berry; Smuggler’s Cove
Bartender's Note
Watch the proof—Zombie formulas were intentionally strong.
How to make the Zombie (1934)
- 1Shake lightly with crushed ice.
- 2Pour into mug.
- 3Top with more crushed ice.
- 4Garnish with mint.
