Island Boulevardier

Negroni & Riffs • December 16, 2025

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A photo of the Island Boulevardier cocktail containing Smith & Cross Traditional Jamaica Rum, Cocchi Americano Bianco, Aperol Aperitivo, Tempus Fugit Kina L'Aero d'Or, Angostura Orange Bitters in a Coupe.

Curiada Ingredients

0.75 fl oz Smith & Cross Traditional Jamaica Rum or alternative
0.75 fl oz Cocchi Americano Bianco or alternative
0.75 fl oz Aperol Aperitivo or alternative
0.75 fl oz Tempus Fugit Kina L'Aero d'Or or alternative
2.00 dash Angostura Orange Bitters or alternative

Directions

Chill coupe glass
Add all ingredients to mixing glass with ice
Stir well until chilled
Express oils from orange zest twist over drink and discard zest
Double strain into chilled coupe glass
Garnish with dehydrated orange wheel

Cocktail Description

The Island Boulevardier takes the brooding intensity of a classic Boulevardier and gives it a tropical vacation, replacing bourbon with funky Jamaican rum for a cocktail that's simultaneously sophisticated and wildly expressive.

This complex sipper leads with Smith & Cross rum's signature hogo—that distinctive funk with notes of overripe banana and tropical fruit—before the bitter-sweet embrace of Aperol and herbal complexity of Lillet Blanc create a balanced middle. The addition of Kina L'Aero d'Or introduces subtle quinine bitterness and spice, while orange bitters tie everything together with bright citrus notes. While moderately challenging to make due to its specialty ingredients, the technique is straightforward—just stir and strain. It's perfect for warm summer evenings on the patio or as a surprising alternative to tiki drinks when you want something spirituous rather than fruity. This cocktail pairs wonderfully with salty snacks like marcona almonds, aged cheeses, or even spicy jerk chicken bites that complement the rum's island character.