Jack Dempsey

Daiquiri/Classic Sours & Riffs July 29, 2026

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A photo of the Jack Dempsey cocktail containing Planteray 3 Stars White Rum, Beefeater London Dry Gin, Freshly squeezed lemon juice, Giffard Sugar Cane Syrup (Sirop Sucre de Canne), Chilled water (reduce if wet ice) in a Martini.

Other Ingredients

  • 0.25 fl oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 0.25 fl oz Giffard Sugar Cane Syrup (Sirop Sucre de Canne)
  • 0.75 fl oz Chilled water (reduce if wet ice)

Directions

  • Add ice to cocktail shaker
  • Add all ingredients to shaker
  • Shake vigorously
  • Fine strain into chilled martini glass
  • Garnish with Luxardo Maraschino cherry

Cocktail Description

This isn't your typical gin-forward martini—it's a sunny detour that brings white rum into the mix for a surprisingly refreshing spin on the classic template.

The Tropical Martini blends the clean, grassy notes of Plantation 3 Stars with Beefeater's juniper bite, balanced by fresh lemon juice and cane syrup that adds a subtle molasses sweetness without turning the drink into a tiki bomb. The result tastes bright and citrus-driven with botanical complexity, landing somewhere between a daiquiri and a proper martini—crisp enough for cocktail purists but approachable for anyone who finds traditional martinis too austere. It's a fairly straightforward shake-and-strain build, so even home bartenders with basic tools can nail it on the first try. Serve this at a summer dinner party or when you want something elegant but not overly serious, especially during warm-weather gatherings where heavy drinks feel out of place. The lively acidity and light body make it a natural match for ceviche, grilled shrimp, oysters, or anything with citrus-herb marinades. That Luxardo cherry on top isn't just decoration—it adds a whisper of almond-cherry sweetness that ties the whole drink together.