Nothing says Caribbean quite like a fruity, blue cocktail, so in honor of National Color Day (October 22) we’ve rounded up five of our favorite blue drinks. Try some of our favorites, like the Blue Lagoon and the Blue Hawaiian.
Blue Hawaiian
The Blue Hawaiian, also known as the Swimming Pool Cocktail, is a sweet, creamy drink similar to a Piña Colada. The drink is said to have originated in 1979 in Munich’s Schumann’s Bar — surprisingly not in Hawaii as you might expect. The similarly named Blue Hawaii drink was invented in 1957 in Waikiki and contains sweet and sour mix in place of cream of coconut, making it less creamy. Watch the video below to see how to make one at home.
Blue Lagoon
The origin of the Blue Lagoon cocktail is unknown. Rumors swirl of its creation at Harry’s New York Bar but our favorite story is that it was created by Paul Gaugin himself. Perhaps the beautiful blue waters of Tahiti inspired him. This much we know for sure: one sip and you’ll be transported to your own magical Blue Lagoon. Get the drink recipe for a Blue Lagoon here.
Blues Swing
Created at the aptly named Blues Bar in Curacao, the Caribbean-colored Blues Swing gets its hue from Blue Curacao. But it’s the pineapple juice and coconut rum that add major flavor this tropical drink. Watch the video below to see how it’s made.
Blue Martini
Belly up to Bushbar at Jamaica’s Geejam Hotel and you won’t hear any Bob Marley playing. You also won’t find any rum in their martini. The Port Antonio resort’s signature Blue Martini cocktail was inspired by the nearby Blue Lagoon and features classic Blue Curacao shaken over ice with tequila and lime juice. Get the drink recipe for a Blue Martini here.
Jigger Cocktail
A favorite of guests at Abaco Beach Resort, it’s no secret how the Jigger Cocktail gets its color. But its taste? That’s another story. Apricot brandy is the secret ingredient that gives the this concoction its unique flavor profile. Watch the video below for the full drink recipe.
What’s the common factor in all these blue drinks?
None other than Blue Curacao. Valencia oranges were brought to Curacao from Spain, but the island heat was too much for the fruit, which made it harden and dry out. Eventually it was discovered that oil from dried orange peels was fragrant and delicious. The peel was soaked in a mixture of alcohol and water, removed, and spices were added to the mixture. Viola! Curacao liqueur was produced. Believe it or not, the liqueur is naturally colorless, but it’s commonly given artificial blue coloring, hence the name Blue Curacao. (Want a more vibrant hue? Try orange or red Curacao.)
