Jamaican Alcoholic Drinks

Jamaica has a wealth of alcoholic temptations, from locally produced beer and rums to fine liqueurs. Red Stripe beer, a lager, is the top selling beer on the island and is sometimes nicknamed "the policeman" in reference to its red stripe similar to that on a policeman's uniform. The locally made Dragon Stout is found in many local bars; Guiness is also a local favorite.

With its long history as a sugar producing island, it's no wonder that Jamaica has such an excellent choice of locally made rums. Tops include Appleton's, Myers, and Sangster's. Sangster's also produces Tia Maria, a liqueur made of coffee and rum,

Brown Cow

This is a recipe that's easy to remember and uses Jamaica's most famous liqueur.

4 ounces Tia Maria
4 ounces milk

Mix Tia Maria and milk; shake. Serve over crushed ice.


Rub-A-Dub, courtesy the former Renaissance Jamaica Grande

4 tablespoons Jamaica Overproof white rum
1/2 cup pineapple juice
2 tablespoons apricot brandy
2 tablespoons vodka
2 tablespoons sugar syrup

Sugar Syrup:
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup water

Prepare sugar syrup. Mix sugar and water in saucepan and bring to a rapid boil. Simmer a minute or two. Cool and measure correct amount.

Prepare Rub-A-Dub. Pour all ingredients in a blender. Blend well for two to three minutes. Pour into a tall cool glass over ice and serve.


Calico Jack, courtesy the former Renaissance Jamaica Grande

1 tablespoon Overproof Rum
1 tablespoon Appleton Special Rum
1/4 cup pineapple juice
2 tablespoons lime juice
Dash Triple Sec liqueur

Blend and serve in an 8 ounce glass.


Sabayon Jamaique, courtesy the former Renaissance Jamaica Grande

6 egg yolks
1 tablespoon cold water
1/2 cup sugar
1/3 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup Tia Maria or other coffee liqueur
1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate, grated for garnish
1 cup double strength Jamaican coffee or other demitasse coffee

In the top of a double boiler, beat egg yolks with water. Whisk in sugar, salt and Tia Maria. Cook over hot water until well thickened. Let cool for 30 minutes. Pour into four demitasse cups already 1/4 filled with coffee (sherbet glasses may also be used). Garnish with chocolate. Serve hot or chilled. Serves four.