Sipping a Piece of History: The Black Stripe Cocktail

History Behind the Black Stripe

Are you ready to experience a little piece of history? Born in 1879, Tom Bullock moved up the ranks from bartender at St Louis' Planter’s Hotel Bar, to Manager at its renowned Palm Garden restaurant. Bullock is well-known as the first celebrity bartender, having served the nation’s elite, including past presidents. 

Bullock's book “The Ideal Bartender” which was published in 1917 – making it the earliest known cocktail book written by a Black person. His book contains some amazing recipes like the Black Stripe cocktail that are still used today!

If you’re looking for something new and unique to try the next time you're behind (or in front!) of the bar – give this cocktail a go! Tom Bullock would be proud! Plus, there's nothing quite like sipping on something that has been around for over a century. Cheers!

Adapted from The Ideal Bartender by Tom Bullock.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Equiano Dark Rum
• 1 tbsp. Molasses
• About ½ cup Boiling Water or cold water & ice (use less water if you’d like a more spirit forward cocktail)
• Nutmeg

The Black Stripe can be served hot or cold. 

Directions:

• Pour 2 oz. of dark rum into the shaker
• Add 1 tablespoon of molasses
• Add water
• If serving cold, add ice to a glass followed by drink mixture (if serving hot, add boiling water and skip adding ice.)
• Sprinkle nutmeg on top