Ingredients
- 1 oz Bourbon Whiskey
- 1 oz OP Rum
Instructions
- Layer Ingredients: Carefully layer the bourbon whiskey and OP rum in a normal shot glass.
- Optional Flaming: If you're feeling daring, you can light the shot on fire. Use caution and make sure to blow out the flame before drinking.
- Serve: Consume the shot quickly, preferably through a straw if you’ve opted for the flaming version.
Notes
Estimated Nutrition:
Where it came from
The true origin of the Gorilla`s Puke is as murky as the drink itself. It likely emerged from the back of a dive bar or a particularly rowdy beach shack sometime in the late 20th century. This isn't a drink you'll find on a classic cocktail menu; it's a creation born of necessity, or perhaps a dare, in an era when bright, sweet, and strong drinks were king.
It sits squarely in the 'tropical party drink' family, a distant cousin to the likes of a Jungle Bird or a potent Rum Punch. What separates Gorilla`s Puke is its unpretentious, almost defiant name and its commitment to a somewhat unappetizing but ultimately delicious flavor profile. It's a drink that embraces its chaotic nature.
You'd order a Gorilla`s Puke at a bar that doesn't judge, probably with sticky floors and a jukebox playing bad 80s rock. It's a solid choice for a backyard barbecue, a themed party, or any situation where the goal is strong drinks and zero pretense. Don't expect fancy garnishes or delicate sips; this one's for having a good time.
What it tastes like
Expect a bold, sweet and sour assault on the palate. The dark rum lays down a deep, molasses-rich foundation, quickly followed by the distinct, creamy sweetness of banana liqueur. Midori adds a bright, cantaloupe-like fruitiness and that signature green tint, while fresh lime juice cuts through the sweetness with a sharp, tangy finish. It’s a tropical fruit explosion with a boozy kick.
This isn't a light sipper. With roughly 0.85 ounces of pure alcohol in a standard serving, a Gorilla`s Puke clocks in around 24% ABV. That makes it significantly stronger than your average beer, which typically hovers around 5%. Treat it with respect, or you might actually start feeling a bit green.
The technique
Building a Gorilla`s Puke is straightforward: combine 1.5 oz dark rum, 0.75 oz banana liqueur, 0.5 oz Midori, and 0.75 oz fresh lime juice in a shaker with plenty of ice. Shake hard for about 15 seconds until well chilled and adequately diluted. Strain the murky green concoction into a chilled highball glass filled with fresh ice. A simple banana slice or a maraschino cherry for garnish works well.
The key to a good Gorilla`s Puke is a vigorous shake. You want to fully integrate the various liqueurs and juices, creating that signature opaque, slightly viscous texture. Don't be shy with the ice in the shaker; proper dilution is crucial for balance.
Ingredient Spotlight
The bottles that make or break this drink.
Dark Rum
- Use
- Myers's Original Dark, Goslings Black Seal, or any rich, molasses-forward dark rum.
- Skip
- Light rum, spiced rum that's too sweet, or anything overly aged and delicate. This isn't a sipping rum drink.
- Why
- The dark rum provides the necessary backbone and depth. Its robust flavor stands up to the sweet liqueurs and lime, preventing the drink from becoming cloying. It's the 'gorilla' in the Gorilla`s Puke.
Banana Liqueur
- Use
- Bols Crème de Banane, Giffard Banane du Brésil. Look for a natural banana flavor, not artificial candy.
- Skip
- Cheap, overly sweet, artificial banana liqueurs. They will make the drink taste like a bad hangover in a glass.
- Why
- Banana liqueur is essential for both the flavor profile and the somewhat 'puke-like' texture when mixed. It adds a creamy, tropical sweetness that complements the rum and melon, contributing to the drink's unique character.
Three Variations
Three real ways bartenders riff on this drink.
Spiced Puke
- A warmer, bolder take
- Swap dark rum for a good quality spiced rum and add a dash of Angostura bitters to the shaker. This introduces baking spice notes, adding complexity to the fruity core.
Jungle Puke
- More bitter, less sweet
- Reduce the banana liqueur slightly and add 0.5 oz of Campari or Aperol. This introduces a pleasant bitter edge, balancing the sweetness and adding another layer of tropical complexity.
Green Puke
- Lean into the melon
- Increase the Midori to 0.75 oz and reduce the banana liqueur to 0.5 oz. This version emphasizes the bright melon notes, making for a slightly lighter, greener profile.
What if I don't have…
Quick substitutions for when the bottle shop is closed.
Try a gold rum or even a robust aged rum. The flavor profile will shift, but it will still deliver a strong, boozy kick.
A splash of banana syrup combined with a neutral spirit can work in a pinch, or use a banana puree for a thicker texture. The flavor won't be as intense.
Another melon liqueur or even a green apple liqueur could be used for the color and fruity sweetness, though the specific melon flavor will be missed.
A large jar with a tight-fitting lid will do the trick. Just make sure it seals well before you start shaking vigorously.
Frequently Asked Questions
Direct answers to what people search for after Googling this drink.
What is in a Gorilla`s Puke?
A Gorilla`s Puke typically contains dark rum, banana liqueur, melon liqueur (like Midori), and fresh lime juice. Sometimes a touch of simple syrup is added for extra sweetness.
Why is it called Gorilla`s Puke?
The name likely comes from its somewhat unappetizing, murky green appearance when mixed, combined with its potent, almost primal strength. It's a crude name for a surprisingly tasty, strong drink.
Is Gorilla`s Puke a strong drink?
Yes, Gorilla`s Puke is a strong cocktail. With a significant amount of rum and two liqueurs, it typically has an ABV around 24%, making it considerably stronger than most beers.
What kind of rum should I use?
A rich, molasses-forward dark rum is best. Brands like Myers's Original Dark or Goslings Black Seal work well, providing a robust base that stands up to the sweet liqueurs.
Can I make Gorilla`s Puke less sweet?
Absolutely. Reduce the amount of banana liqueur or omit the simple syrup if the recipe calls for it. You can also slightly increase the fresh lime juice for more tartness.
What glass should I serve it in?
A highball glass or a large rocks glass filled with fresh ice is ideal. The drink is meant to be enjoyed without fuss, so simple glassware works best.
Is this a classic cocktail?
No, Gorilla`s Puke is not a classic cocktail. It's more of a modern, perhaps even cult-status, party drink that emerged from the more informal side of bartending.
Can I make a batch of Gorilla`s Puke?
Yes, you can easily scale up the recipe to make a batch. Combine all ingredients (except ice) in a pitcher and chill. When serving, pour over fresh ice in individual glasses.
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