History & Heritage
“The 1950 Zombie represents Donn Beach's evolution of his 1934 masterpiece, simplified for post-war home bartenders embracing Tiki culture. This version appeared in Louis Spievak's 1950 "Barbecue Chef" book and was likely a deliberate misdirection by Beach to protect his original secret recipe while still satisfying public demand for the famous drink.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
1 oz
1 oz
1 oz
1 oz
1 tsp
1 dash
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
In a cocktail shaker, combine lime juice and brown sugar, stir until dissolved
Add all remaining ingredients except the 151-proof rum to the shaker
Fill shaker with crushed ice and shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds
Pour entire contents (unstrained) into a tall zombie or collins glass
Top with more crushed ice to fill the glass
Float the 151-proof Demerara rum on top
Glassware
Served in a tall zombie or collins glass over crushed ice
Garnish
Large fresh sprig, spanked to release oils
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Dissolve brown sugar completely in lime juice first
Use fresh-squeezed juices only—bottled juices ruin the flavor
Shake hard and long for proper dilution and temperature
The 151 rum float is essential for the dramatic presentation
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
1934 Zombie
The original Donn Beach Zombie with gold Puerto Rican rum, dark Jamaican rum, and 151-proof Demerara rum—the authentic recipe that launched the tiki craze.
Spiced Jungle Bird
A contemporary evolution of the Malaysian Jungle Bird that introduces warming spices like cinnamon, allspice, and clove, creating a complex interplay of bitter, sweet, tropical, and spiced notes perfect for both summer and cooler evenings.
Zombie
Don the Beachcomber's infamous blend of rums, citrus, and spice that launched the tiki craze—tropical, potent, and theatrical.