In the mid-2000s, at a Pernod Ricard gathering, the esteemed Simon Ford introduced a cocktail that blends elements of a Rum & Coke with a White Russian.
This creation features white rum mixed with Kahlúa, whole milk, and cola, all combined directly in a highball glass over ice.
Stirred gently, the drink is then elegantly finished with a garnish of fresh mint leaves, offering a refreshing twist.
White Bat Cocktail Ingredients
- White Rum (1 1/2 ounces / 45 ml): White rum provides a smooth, slightly sweet base that pairs beautifully with the richness of Kahlúa. Its clean flavor ensures that the cocktail remains light and palatable.
- Kahlúa (1/2 ounce / 15 ml): This coffee-flavored liqueur adds depth, adding a hint of coffee bitterness that complements the sweet and components of the cocktail.
- Cola (3 ounces / 90 ml, chilled): Cola brings bubbles and a familiar sweetness to the drink, creating a contrast with the creamy texture of the milk and the richness of the Kahlúa.
- Whole Milk (1 1/2 ounces / 45 ml): Whole milk adds a creamy layer that binds all the flavors, resulting in a cocktail that’s smooth.
- Garnish: Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves not only enhance the cocktail’s visual appeal but also introduce a burst of freshness that lifts the overall flavor profile, adding a final touch of class.
White Bat Cocktail Recipe
- Prepare Your Glass:
- Fill a highball glass with ice, ensuring it’s well-chilled for the best taste experience. The choice of a highball glass allows for the perfect proportion of ingredients, ensuring each sip is balanced.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Pour 45 ml (1 1/2 ounces) of white rum, 15 ml (1/2 ounce) of Kahlúa, 90 ml (3 ounces) of chilled cola, and 45 ml (1 1/2 ounces) of whole milk into the glass. The sequence of adding the ingredients helps maintain the integrity of each flavor, allowing for a gentle blend.
- Stir Gently:
- Briefly and gently stir the mixture to combine the ingredients without disrupting the cola’s sparkles too much. A delicate stir is key to preserving the drink’s layered complexity.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the cocktail with fresh mint leaves. The mint not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing aroma that enhances the first sip.
The White Bat Cocktail – In Detail
What do you get when you cross a Rum & Coke with a White Russian?
It’s likely not a question that frequently crosses your mind, nor one you might pose to your go-to mixologist. Nonetheless, Simon Ford, a bartending guru and gin innovator, ventured to find an answer.
Ford introduced the White Bat at a Pernod Ricard gathering, and although he’s primarily celebrated for his gin expertise, this time he ventured into the realm of white rum to concoct a fizzy nightcap.
You can use any type of white rum for this cocktail, or even venture into darker territories with an amber or blackstrap rum. However, Kahlúa is a non-negotiable component, as it forms an essential part of the cocktail’s rich foundation, further enriched by the addition of whole milk. While a non-dairy alternative is feasible, it may lack the original’s creamy texture and richness.
Ford elevates the cocktail with a splash of cola to add sweetness and playful carbonation. He leaves the cola brand to your discretion, suggesting steering clear of mainstream brands that rely on corn syrup and artificial additives. Instead, opting for Mexican Coca-Cola, with its real sugar, could enhance the drink, though numerous craft cola brands offer quality alternatives.
The backstory of the cocktail’s name, the White Bat, remains a mystery. Regardless of its name, Ford’s creation leans towards the sweeter side, establishing itself as an ideal choice for a post-dinner drink.
Check out more of the best Kahlua cocktail recipes.
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