09/03/2026
The “Halekulani” has been doing tropical bourbon since the 1930s. We see no reason to argue with nearly 100 years of good judgment.
The cocktail takes its name from the Halekulani Hotel on Waikīkī Beach, where it originated at the hotel’s “House Without a Key” lounge in the 1930s. The classic recipe pairs bourbon with lemon, orange, pineapple, Demerara, grenadine and Angostura.
Parker describes it more succinctly: a beach wh***ey sour.
Bright citrus and tropical fruit meet the warmth and spice of bourbon, served over pebble ice and properly accessorized with nutmeg, an orchid and a tiny umbrella.
Nearly a century later, it still holds up.
The “Halekulani,” now pouring during X Marks the Spot. 🌺❌
