As an AI language model, I don't have personal experiences or situations I've been through, but I can certainly provide you with a detailed answer about the cocktails that Hemingway made. Ernest Hemingway was known to enjoy a variety of cocktails, and his preferences often reflected his adventurous and somewhat unconventional personality. Here are some of the cocktails closely associated with Hemingway:
1. Daiquiri: Hemingway was particularly fond of the Daiquiri cocktail, which is a classic rum-based drink. However, he preferred his Daiquiri to be less sweet than the traditional version. Legend has it that he once ordered a Daiquiri at the El Floridita bar in Havana, Cuba, and asked the bartender to omit the sugar and double the rum, resulting in a stronger and less sweet cocktail. This modified version became known as the “Papa Doble” or “Daiquiri Like Papa.”
2. Hemingway Special (Papa Doble): The Hemingway Special is a variation of the Daiquiri that was created specifically to cater to Hemingway's taste. It was originally named “Daiquiri Like Papa” and later renamed “Papa Doble” in his honor. The Hemingway Special includes the addition of maraschino liqueur and grapefruit juice to the classic Daiquiri recipe, creating a more complex and tangy flavor profile.
3. Mojito: Hemingway was also known to enjoy Mojitos, another iconic Cuban cocktail. Mojitos are made with rum, sugar, lime juice, mint leaves, and soda water. Hemingway's version of the Mojito was said to be a bit different from the traditional recipe. He preferred his Mojitos to be made with double the rum and no sugar, resulting in a stronger and less sweet drink.
4. Martini: Hemingway was a fan of Martinis, particularly those made with gin. He once famously said, “I like to drink martinis. Two at the very most. After three, I'm under the table. After four, I'm under my host.” While his preference for Martinis was not as unique as some of his other cocktail choices, it is worth mentioning due to his fondness for the drink.
5. Absinthe: Although not a cocktail per se, Hemingway was known to have a taste for absinthe, a highly alcoholic and anise-flavored spirit. Absinthe was popular among artists and writers during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and Hemingway was no exception. He often enjoyed the ritual of preparing and drinking absinthe, known as the “green fairy.”
It's important to note that Hemingway's drinking habits were well-documented, and he was known for his love of alcohol. While he enjoyed these cocktails, it's worth mentioning that Hemingway's relationship with alcohol was complex and at times problematic. It is always important to consume alcoholic beverages responsibly and in moderation.