The Story Behind The Bombo
A precursor to the Old Fashioned, the Bombo utilizes fresh grated nutmeg to bring aromatic spice to the picture. It also anticipates the use of bitters — tinctures in which herbs and spices are infused into high-proof neutral grain spirits — to add depth and dimension to a pour of a spirit.
Prior to the creation of this drink, spirits were typically consumed neat, and in rare cases, with a lump of sugar and ice to temper and mellow them. In the Bombo, we witnessed the first step toward the creation of a “true” cocktail.
This recipe originally appeared in the VinePair article, "Taste American History With Classic Rum Drinks and Contemporary Riffs," written by Shannon Mustipher.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces 5-year-old Barbados rum, such as Mount Gay Black Barrel
- ½ ounce rich simple syrup (2:1 Demerara sugar and water, simmered for 15 minutes)
- Fresh grated nutmeg
Directions
- In a chilled rocks glass, combine the syrup and the rum.
- Add a large ice cube, then stir to chill.
- Garnish with fresh grated nutmeg, then serve.
Recipe Rating
