Brass Monkey Cocktail Recipe: A Retro Drink with Bold Flavour and Funky History

The brass monkey cocktail is more than just a fun mix of vodka, rum, and orange juice, it’s a throwback to the 70s and 80s, a pop culture icon, and a surprisingly refreshing drink that still deserves a place in your glass today.

Whether you first heard about it from the Beastie Boys, tried it at a college party, or just love experimenting with simple cocktails that deliver on flavour, the brass monkey cocktail has a charm that’s hard to deny. It’s fruity, boozy, and completely unfussy.

In this recipe guide, you’ll learn the history behind the drink, how to make it perfectly, and how Chef Rachael from Tasty Plated puts her own elevated twist on it.

 

• What Is a Brass Monkey Cocktail?

The brass monkey cocktail is a mix of vodka, dark rum, and orange juice. It’s typically served over ice in a highball glass and garnished with an orange wedge or peel. The flavour is citrusy and smooth, with a subtle kick from the rum.

The drink originally gained attention in the 1970s when a premixed version was sold in bottles by the Heublein Company. It later surged in popularity thanks to the Beastie Boys, whose 1986 hit “Brass Monkey” put the cocktail back in the spotlight.

Today, the brass monkey is a nostalgic, no-fuss drink with a funky history and a simple appeal. It’s also a great base to riff on if you want to experiment with fresh juices, flavoured rums, or bitters.

 

• Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the brass monkey cocktail is how straightforward it is. All you need are three ingredients (and ice).

 

Classic Ingredients

• 1 oz vodka

• 1 oz dark rum

• 2 oz orange juice (fresh-squeezed preferred)

Optional Additions

• Dash of orange bitters

• Splash of pineapple juice for added sweetness

• Orange peel or wedge for garnish

• Ice for serving

Tip: Use high-quality spirits and freshly squeezed juice for the best flavour.

• How to Make the Perfect Brass Monkey Cocktail

This drink is incredibly easy to mix, even for beginners. Here’s how to do it right.

Method

1. Fill a shaker with ice.

2. Add vodka, dark rum, and orange juice.

3. Shake briefly until well chilled.

4. Strain into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.

5. Garnish with an orange slice or peel.

If you’re going for an ultra-chill retro look, serve it in a red solo cup. But if you’re feeling fancy, a Collins glass or highball works beautifully.

 

• Chef Rachael’s Twist on This Funky Classic

At Tasty Plated, Chef Rachael loves creating recipes that honor the classics, but with a modern upgrade.

Her version of the brass monkey cocktail keeps the original spirit of the drink alive but introduces small tweaks to make it smoother, more balanced, and totally Tasty Plated-worthy.

 

Chef Rachael’s Signature Version

• 1 oz top-shelf vodka

• 1 oz aged dark rum

• 2 oz fresh-squeezed orange juice

• 1 dash orange bitters

• Garnish: flamed orange peel

She recommends shaking it well, serving it in a chilled coupe or lowball glass, and garnishing with a flamed orange twist to bring out the citrus oils and give the drink an aromatic pop.

“People are always surprised how good this cocktail is when made with care,” says Chef Rachael. “It’s not just a party drink, it can be a really elegant aperitif if you let it.”

 

• Table: Traditional vs. Modern Brass Monkey Cocktail

This table helps show how the drink has evolved over time, from a pre-mixed party staple to a respectable home bar favorite.

 

• Flavour Variations and Serving Ideas

Looking to riff on the classic brass monkey? Here are a few variations worth trying:

 

– Frozen Brass Monkey

Blend with crushed ice for a summer-friendly slushy version.

– Spicy Monkey

Add a dash of cayenne or muddled jalapeño for a bold kick.

– Herbal Version

Muddle fresh basil or mint with the orange juice before shaking.

– Pineapple Monkey

Replace half the orange juice with pineapple juice for a tropical spin.

You can also batch this cocktail in a pitcher for parties. Just stick to the 1:1:2 ratio (vodka: rum: juice).

 

• Pairing Suggestions for Your Brass Monkey

The brass monkey cocktail pairs well with fun, flavourful foods. Here are a few ideas from the Tasty Plated stylebook:

• Spicy wings or grilled shrimp: The citrus helps cut through the heat

• Pulled pork sliders: A great party food match

• Crispy chicken and waffles: For brunch vibes with a retro twist

• Citrus-marinated olives or cheese board: Light and flavourful snacks for happy hour

This drink is great for barbecues, summer nights, and game day spreads. It’s casual but cool.

 

• FAQs About the Brass Monkey Cocktail

 

1. What’s the origin of the brass monkey cocktail?
It started as a bottled drink in the 70s by Heublein, and became a pop culture hit after the Beastie Boys song in the 80s.

2. Is the drink the same as the malt beverage?
Not exactly. The original malt liquor version was premixed and sweeter. Today’s version is a freshly mixed cocktail.

3. Can I use light rum instead of dark?
You can, but dark rum adds a richer, deeper flavour.

4. What’s the best orange juice to use?
Fresh-squeezed is best. Avoid highly sweetened or concentrate-based juices for balance.

5. Can I make a large batch?
Yes, just multiply the vodka, rum, and juice in the 1:1:2 ratio and stir well over ice.

6. Is there a non-alcoholic version?
You can skip the booze and mix orange juice with a splash of ginger ale or a dash of bitters for a mocktail version.

 

• Final Sip: A Cocktail with Personality

 

The brass monkey cocktail is bold, flavourful, and rich with personality, just like the era it came from. Whether you’re throwing a retro party, adding a fun drink to your rotation, or just mixing up something simple at home, this cocktail hits all the right notes.

At Tasty Plated, we love bringing back forgotten classics and giving them a fresh perspective. With Chef Rachael’s method, the brass monkey becomes more than a novelty, it’s a go-to drink that deserves a place on your home bar menu.

Give it a try. Share it with friends. And don’t be surprised when someone starts humming “Brass Monkey, that funky monkey.”