Spellbinder

There are a lot of cocktails named Spellbinder, and they vary wildly. This is the Rum version I like best, and it’s a cross between a Negroni and a tropical drink. Campari isn’t found in many tiki drinks other than a Jungle Bird, but it works well with this cocktail. The burnt sugar syrup adds to the molasses note of a good rum, so don’t skimp on the rum choice.

SPELLBINDER

1 1/2 oz Rum
1/2 oz Campari
1/2 oz Burnt Sugar Syrup
1/2 oz Tepache (or pineapple juice)
3/4 oz Lemon Juice (fresh)
2 dashes Aromatic Bitters
Tippleman’s Burnt Sugar Syrup is excellent, or make your own. Tepache, pineapple gum syrup, or just pineapple juice works. Combine all and, if not sweet enough, add 1/2 oz Simple Syrup.