For inside tips on vanilla rum drinks, we talked to Gianvito Bartucci, the bartender at JBar in Chicago. Bartucci has been mixing drinks in the Windy City for more than 12 years, the last four at this popular bar at the James Hotel.
Gianvito (Gianni) Bartucci's Picks
- Vanilla Sky
- Vanilla Rum & Cherry Coke
- Vanilla Sunrise
- Vanilla Chocolate Drop
Vanilla Sky
How do you make it?
Splash Blanc de Noir champagne
1 ounce fresh strawberry puree
Instructions:
Shake and strain ingredients into a martini glass with a sugared rim. Top with champagne and garnish with a fresh strawberry.
How would you describe its taste?
It is very heavy and sweet, almost like a dessert in a glass.
When is it best to drink?
On Valentine's Day it is a big hit among the ladies the whole weekend -- our number one seller!
Who drinks it?
Anyone, but given the sugary nature of a Vanilla Sky, women tend to order more of these cocktails.
Vanilla Rum & Cherry Coke
How do you make it?
4 ounces Coke
Splash of grenadine
Instructions:
Pour ingredients over ice and stir.
How would you describe its taste?
A little sweet, but not too sugary.
When is it best to drink?
While relaxing after a hard day's work.
Who drinks it?
Vanilla Sunrise
How do you make it?
4 ounces orange juice
Splash of grenadine
Instructions:
Pour ingredients over ice and stir.
How would you describe its taste?
It's a vanilla-cherry flavored cocktail.
When is it best to drink?
It's a good after-dinner drink.
Who drinks it?
Both men and women like this drink.
Vanilla Chocolate Drop
How do you make it?
1 ounce Godiva dark chocolate liqueur
Splash of half and half
Instructions:
Put ingredients into a shaker. Shake and strain into a shot glass.
How would you describe its taste?
A mixture of chocolate and vanilla.
When is it best to drink?
It's a great shot for a birthday celebration.
Who drinks it?
Younger drinkers tend to go for this.
More From This Bartender
Photo: Courtesy of the James Hotel
Gianvito (Gianni) Bartucci
55 East Ontario Street, Chicago, IL 60611
What are your favorite vanilla rum drinks?
Vanilla Sky and Vanilla Rum & Cherry Coke
What are your customers' favorite vanilla rum drinks?
Vanilla Sky is very popular at JBar. It is one of our best-selling cocktails.
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