The Piña Colada remains one of the most iconic tropical cocktails in the world. Its sweet and creamy combination of coconut cream, pineapple juice, white rum, and ice has made it a beloved favorite among many. But where did this amazing drink come from?
The origin of the Piña Colada is shrouded in mystery. While some believe it was created in San Juan, Puerto Rico in 1954 by bartender Ramon “Mongo” Marrero, others claim it was first made by bartender Ricardo Garcia at the Caribe Hilton Hotel in 1952. What we do know for sure is that the first written reference to the drink appeared in an Esquire magazine article in 1978.
No matter who invented it, the Piña Colada has become a popular summertime treat around the world. Its refreshing blend of tropical flavors makes it an ideal accompaniment to any hot day or night. Whether you're lounging on a beach or just enjoying your own backyard oasis, a Piña Colada can instantly transport you to a paradise of relaxation.
To make your own perfect Piña Colada at home, start with three ounces of light rum (about 80 proof) and nine ounces of coconut cream and pineapple juice. If you want an extra-special version, opt for BACARDÍ Gold rum which adds rich flavors like creamy caramel and banana that pair perfectly with coconut cream whie still cutting through its sweetness with a light oaked finish. From there you can customize your drink however you like – add more or less juice depending on how sweet you want it to be or even experiment with different types of rum for different flavor profiles!
With its unique blend of sweetness and refreshment, it's no surprise that the Piña Colada has become a classic cocktail across the globe. So next time you're looking for something special to sip on during those hot summer days and nights, remember: nothing quite beats a delicious Piña Colada!
Is the Piña Colada a Mexican Drink?
A piña colada is not a Mexican drink. It was actually invented in Puerto Rico in the 1950s by an unknown creator. The delicious mix of coconut cream, pineapple juice, white rum, and ice is a beloved tropical drink enjoyed throughout the world. Although the name “piña colada” originated from Mexico and means “strained pineapple,” the drink itself was created in Puerto Rico. Therefore, it is not a Mexican drink but rather a Puerto Rican beverage!
Alcohol Content of Piña Colada
Piña colada is not a particularly strong alcoholic beverage. It contains 3 ounces of light rum, which has an 80 proof (40% ABV) and 9 ounces of coconut cream and pineapple juice. This combination results in a piña colada with an ABV of about 13%. This is much lower than most mixed drinks, which typically contain at least one stronger spirit. Therefore, piña colada is not overly alcoholic compared to other mixed drinks.
The Taste of a Piña Colada
A piña colada should taste like a combination of pineapple and coconut, creating a smooth and creamy flavor. The sweetness of the pineapple should be balanced with the slight nuttiness of the coconut, making it a delicious tropical treat. For those who prefer their drinks a bit thicker, blending the ingredients together creates a smoothie-like texture. If you prefer it over ice, the drink will be rich and thick.
Conclusion
The Piña Colada is an iconic tropical drink that has been enjoyed by people of all genders since its invention in Puerto Rico. It is a refreshing mix of pineapple juice, rum, and coconut cream that creates a sweet and creamy flavor. BACARDÍ Gold is a great choice when making this classic cocktail, as its light oaked finish pairs nicely with the rich toasty flavors of caramel, banana, and almond. Enjoying a Piña Colada is a great way to feel like you're on vacation without leaving your home!
