About the Hemingway Special cocktail

The Hemingway Special (also known as the Hemingway Daiquiri or Papa Doble) was created in the 1930s at El Floridita in Havana, Cuba — a bar that became Ernest Hemingway’s favorite haunt.

The story goes that Hemingway sampled the house daiquiri, found it too sweet, and asked for one without sugar but with double the rum.

Bartender Constantino Ribalaigua adjusted the recipe by adding grapefruit juice and a touch of maraschino liqueur, creating a drink that matched the author’s bold, no-nonsense palate.

This cocktail quickly became part of Hemingway’s larger-than-life persona — strong, refreshing, and unapologetically different from the classics of its time.

What Makes the Hemingway Special Cocktail Special

Unlike the traditional daiquiri, the Hemingway Special is drier, sharper, and more complex. The addition of grapefruit juice adds a bitter-citrus punch, while maraschino liqueur gives it a delicate nutty sweetness.

Together, they balance the double measure of rum without relying on sugar.

It’s not just a cocktail — it’s a reflection of Hemingway’s character: strong, adventurous, and a little bit rebellious.

Spirit Swaps and Food Pairings

The classic recipe calls for white Cuban rum, but you can experiment:

• Use aged rum for a warmer, richer profile.

• Adjust the maraschino liqueur to taste if you prefer more sweetness.

• Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice is essential — bottled versions fall flat.

For food pairings, the Hemingway Special works beautifully with seafood dishes like ceviche, grilled fish tacos, or oysters.

The sharp citrus cuts through richness and pairs well with briny flavors. It’s also refreshing enough to serve as an aperitif before a summer meal.

Why the Hemingway Special Endures

The Hemingway Special is more than a variation — it’s a cocktail with a story, tied to one of literature’s most iconic figures and the golden age of Havana bars.

It’s bold yet balanced, making it a favorite among rum lovers who want something with both history and bite.