The Buildout The Hotel Nacional
Mar 13, 2025
S.E. Baker, bar lead at Epiphany in Louisville, dives deep into the origins and history of the Hotel Nacional cocktail, tracing its roots to the iconic Hotel Nacional de Cuba. He shares how Prohibition shaped its evolution and the importance of quality rum and apricot liqueurs. Listeners get insights on using fresh versus packaged pineapple juice to enhance flavors, along with preparation techniques. Baker also touches on the emotional connections cocktails create, enriching the overall drinking experience.
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Preparation Methods
- The Hotel Nacional can be shaken and served up or flash-blended.
- Consider the setting and desired temperature when choosing the preparation method.
Daiquiri Perception
- S.C. Baker's first impression of a daiquiri was a frozen strawberry daiquiri with whipped cream.
- Bartenders are reclaiming the daiquiri as a sophisticated, unfrozen cocktail.
Rum Selection
- Use a lightly aged Cuban rum, like Havana Club, for an authentic Hotel Nacional.
- If unavailable, opt for light, character-driven rums like Rondale Baralito or Real McCoy 3-Year.
