Trader Vic Zombie
A potent and complex tiki cocktail that simplified and popularized Don the Beachcomber's original secret recipe. Victor Bergeron's more approachable version helped make the Zombie a global staple of Polynesian-themed restaurants.
29%
ABV
medium
Difficulty
zombie
Glass
History & Heritage
“The Zombie originated with Donn Beach (Ernest Raymond Beaumont Gantt) in 1934 at Don the Beachcomber in Hollywood. Legend has it that Beach created the potent mix to help a hungover customer through a business meeting, who later complained it had turned him into a "zombie" for his entire trip. Victor "Trader Vic" Bergeron, unable to procure Donn's secret recipe, reverse-engineered his own version that appeared in his 1946 "Book of Food and Drink" and was solidified in his 1947 "Bartender's Guide." Vic acknowledged Donn's creation but offered "a simplified version for home use." This more accessible version helped popularize the Zombie globally, even if many came to know Vic's version rather than the original. Both bars imposed a strict two-per-customer limit, adding to the drink's mystique and reputation.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
1 oz
2 oz
0.5 oz
1 oz
0.5 oz
1 dash
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Combine all ingredients except the 151-proof Demerara rum in a cocktail shaker with a large piece of ice or cracked ice
Stir well until the outside of the shaker is frosted (do not shake)
Pour the mixture into a tall, 14-ounce chimney or zombie glass filled with fresh cracked or shaved ice
Float the 151-proof Demerara rum on top by pouring slowly over the back of a bar spoon
Garnish with a large, fresh sprig of mint
Glassware
Tall, narrow chimney or zombie glass (14 oz)
Garnish
Large, vibrant sprig, gently slapped to release essential 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
Stir, don't shake, to maintain rich texture per Vic's original 1947 instructions
Use fresh-squeezed citrus juices only - bottled juices will ruin the balance
Quality grenadine made from real pomegranate juice is essential
Float the 151 rum properly over a bar spoon for visual and aromatic impact
Pre-chill the glass and use plenty of fresh ice for proper temperature
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Trader Vic Zombie.
1972 Trader Vic's
Slightly adjusted recipe from the revised Bartender's Guide with lime juice and less grenadine.
Changes
Don the Beachcomber Original (1934)
The original secret recipe with Don's Mix (grapefruit and cinnamon), falernum, and bitters.
Changes
Modern Spiced
Contemporary version adding back spice elements with cinnamon syrup or allspice dram.
Changes
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.
El Presidente
A Cuban aristocrat: lightly aged rum stirred with blanc vermouth, dry orange curaçao, and a hint of real grenadine—silky and elegant.
Trader Vic's Planter's Punch
Trader Vic's definitive version of Planter's Punch - a harmonious blend of bold Jamaican rum, bright citrus, and just enough sweetness to create a refreshingly complex tropical experience.