Cobra’s Fang Rum Cocktail

This month, we had the pleasure of celebrating my wife’s birthday at the enchanting Anaheim Tiki Bar, Strong Water, where we indulged in the exotic flavors of their signature Cobra’s Fang Rum Cocktail. The atmosphere of the bar, with its lush decor and vibrant Polynesian vibe, made it the perfect setting for this special occasion.

Our visit was made even more memorable knowing that Strong Water has been recognized by the culinary world for its excellence. In 2024, Strong Water was nominated for the prestigious James Beard Award under the category of “Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program.”

This nomination highlights their commitment to not just crafting exceptional cocktails but also their innovative approach to beverage service that includes ethical sourcing and community engagement. Their program is noted for its vibrant fusion of tropical inspiration with classic tiki style, offering a menu that updates twice a year to keep pace with evolving tastes and ingredients.

Strong Water Cobra’s Fang Rum Cocktail

At Strong Water, you can elevate your experience by purchasing the exclusive Medusa mug for an additional $75 when ordering the Cobra’s Fang. This mug not only serves as a unique vessel for your drink but also as a memorable keepsake from a delightful evening.

Strong Water Cobra’s Fang cocktail is absolutely delicious, and far better than your average Mai Tai. The dark rum provides a deep, molasses-rich base, while the high-proof demerara rum adds a fiery kick. Falernum introduces a sweet and spicy note, complemented by the tartness of fresh lime and the sweetness of orange juice. Fassionola syrup brings in a tropical essence, and the dashes of absinthe and bitters round out the drink with an aromatic complexity.

Whether you’re a Tiki enthusiast or just looking for a special drink to celebrate with, the Strong Water Cobra’s Fang is sure to impress. Next time you’re in the mood for something adventurous, or if you’re planning a themed party, consider this cocktail. And if you happen to be near Anaheim, don’t miss the chance to taste it in its natural habitat, accompanied by the charm of the Tiki Bar. Cheers!

The Strong Water Cobra’s Fang is a potent blend that captures the essence of Tiki culture with its rich, layered flavors. Here’s a recipe inspired by our experience at Strong Water to recreate this Tiki masterpiece at home:

• 1 1/2 ounces dark Jamaican rum
• 1/2 ounce 151-proof demerara rum
• 1/2 ounce falernum
• 1/2 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 1/2 ounce orange juice, freshly squeezed
• 1/2 ounce fassionola syrup
• 1 dash absinthe
• 1 dash Angostura bitters

• Add all the liquid ingredients into a blender with 6 ounces of crushed ice.
• Blend for approximately 5 seconds. The goal is to mix the ingredients while maintaining some of the ice’s texture.
• Pour the mixture into a highball glass or, for a more authentic Tiki experience, into a tall Tiki mug.
• Add a sprig of mint for that final touch of freshness and visual appeal.

What is Fassionola syrup?

Fassionola syrup is a fruit-flavored, typically red-colored syrup that was widely used in tropical and Tiki cocktails during the mid-20th century. Here’s a detailed look at what Fassionola syrup is:

• Origin and History: Originally associated with Donn Beach, the creator of the Tiki bar culture, Fassionola is often linked to the 1930s Tiki drink scene. Although its precise history is somewhat murky, it’s believed to have been first fashioned around 1916. The syrup was notably used in cocktails like the original Hurricane, the Cobra’s Fang, and other Tiki drinks, but its exact recipe has been lost to time.

• Ingredients: Traditionally, Fassionola includes passion fruit as a primary flavor, combined with various other fruits like strawberries, pineapple, mango, and sometimes hibiscus, which contributes to its distinctive red color. There are also mentions of green and gold varieties that might have different flavor profiles, but the red version is the most recognized.

• Flavor Profile: It’s described as tasting like a concentrated tropical fruit punch, with a balance of sweet and tart flavors. Some modern interpretations suggest it has a flavor reminiscent of Hawaiian Punch, but made with fresh, natural ingredients.
• Modern Use and Availability: Since the original commercial brand by the Jonathan English Company no longer exists, contemporary bartenders and enthusiasts either substitute it with mixtures like passion fruit syrup and grenadine or make their own. Several modern companies, like Cocktail & Sons and BG Reynolds, have released their versions of Fassionola, each with a unique recipe but aiming to capture the essence of the original. These can be found online or in specialty beverage stores.

• Preparation: Homemade versions often involve macerating fresh fruits with sugar, sometimes adding hibiscus for color and flavor, and then straining to create a syrup. Recipes can vary widely, allowing for creativity in the combination of fruits used to achieve that tropical, punch-like taste.
• Applications: Beyond its use in cocktails, Fassionola can be used in non-alcoholic drinks, as a flavoring for desserts, or in any culinary application where a tropical fruit syrup would enhance the dish.

Fassionola syrup, with its rich history and unique flavor, remains a beloved ingredient in the world of mixology, offering a taste of the exotic in every sip of a well-crafted Tiki drink.

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