Celebrating my return to everything2 and to no-holds-barred drinking - thank the economy for that one - I'm doing a writeup on my new favourite drink.

The Nacional

* 1 1/2 ounces rum (white or gold)
* 3/4 ounce fresh lime juice
* 3/4 ounce simple syrup
* 3/4 ounce apricot brandy
* orange twist (optional)

Shake over ice; strain into a chilled cocktail glass, or an ice-filled iced tea or highball glass for a sipper.

Named after the Hotel Nacional de Cuba, the Nacional is definitely a summertime drink. Being already partial to daiquiris, it was a pleasant surprise to find this elaboration on the theme. It went quite nicely with the baked chicken-and-brie sandwich I was having for lunch that day, as well.