The Story Behind The Rum Yum Chai Rye

If you’re looking for a take on the Old Fashioned that doesn’t stray too far from the classic, try the Rum Yum Chai Rye, an Old Fashioned variation coming to us from bar manager John Dillon, who mixes up drinks at Barbuto in NYC’s West Village.

Splitting the base with rye and dark rum, this cocktail gets its kick from a spiced chai syrup that brings cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, black pepper, and clove to the mix. Angostura bitters tie everything together with a bow, and a finishing spritz of a peaty Scotch can add a little extra oomph for those who wish to partake.

This recipe is part of our 2023 Holiday Cocktail Countdown. Click here to see all of the festive recipes as they publish throughout December.

Ingredients

  • 1 ounce rye whiskey
  • 1 ounce dark rum
  • ¾ ounce Demerara Chai Syrup*
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
  • Scotch (optional)
  • Garnish: lemon twist, star anise pod

Directions

  1. Add rye, rum, chai syrup, and bitters to a mixing glass with ice and stir until well chilled.
  2. Strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice.
  3. If desired, spray lightly with a peaty Scotch.
  4. Garnish with lemon twist and star anise.

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Yield: 1
Updated: 2023-12-19

*Demerara Chai Syrup Ingredients

  • 4 chai tea bags
  • 8 ounces hot water
  • 8 ounces Demerara sugar

*Demerara Chai Syrup Directions

  1. Steep chai tea in hot water for 5 minutes.
  2. Add Demerara sugar and stir until dissolved.
  3. Allow to cool.
  4. Store in a sealed container.
The Rum Yum Chai Rye