Craft cocktails steeped in tradition

A mouth full of South: Embrace the flavors of the Cotton States with these craft cocktails steeped in tradition 

The Deep South has a rich and vibrant history when it comes to cocktails. From refreshing sips on sweltering summer days to spirited concoctions that reflect the region’s unique flavors, the cocktail culture in the Deep South has evolved over the years, leaving a lasting impact on the world of mixology. So grab your shaker and get ready to savor the spirit of the Deep South with these delightful libations from the good folks at Hilton Head Distillery and Tito’s Handmade Vodka.

 Hilton Head Distillery 

Rum Runner

With the start of Prohibition, Captain Bill McCoy, the most famous rum runner, began bringing rum from Bimini and the rest of the Bahamas into Southern Florida. The Coast Guard soon caught up with him and patrolled the waters nonstop. In the late 1950s at the Holiday Isle Tiki Bar in Islamorada, Florida, they named the drink after the actual “Rum Runners” that inhabited the Florida Keys in the early days. Supposedly, the bar had an excess of rum and certain liqueurs that needed to be moved before the arrival of more inventory. A tasty concoction was developed using the excess alcohol and became a southern favorite.

Ingredients

1 ounce Hilton Head Distillery Solera Rum

1 ounce Hilton Head Distillery Spiced Rum 

1 ounce Hilton Head Distillery Bananas Foster Rum

1 ounce orange juice

1 ounce pineapple

1 ounce lime juice

1/2 ounce Creme de Cassis

1/2 ounce Grenadine

Directions

[1] Pour all ingredients into an ice-filled cocktail shaker and shake vigorously. [2] Strain into your favorite tiki glass and add ice. [3] Garnish with a cocktail umbrella and tropical fruits.

 Tito’s Handmade Vodka 

Peach Tea

Ice some tea, squeeze a lemon, smash the juiciest peach you’ve got, and pour Tito’s. Now, you’re front-porch ready.

Ingredients

1 1/2 ounces Tito’s Handmade Vodka

4 ounces unsweetened iced tea

4 peach quarters, muddled 

1/2 ounce lemon juice

1 teaspoon agave

Directions

[1] Muddle peaches in a shaker. [2] Add remaining ingredients. Shake and strain over fresh ice. [3] Garnish with peach slices and a mint sprig.