Broadside cocktail in highball glass, served with traditional garnish

Cocktail

Broadside

The Broadside is a refreshing cocktail that combines the vibrant flavors of gin, elderflower liqueur, and fresh lemon juice, creating a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness. Topped with a splash of sparkling wine, this invigorating drink is perfect for any occasion, evoking a sense of coastal breeziness with every sip. Garnished with a twist of lemon or a sprig of mint, the Broadside is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

  • spicy
  • citrusy
  • herbal
  • refreshing
James
By JamesSpirits & Whiskey ExpertPublished Reviewed
Prep Time
5 min
Glass
Highball glass
Difficulty
Easy
Yields
1 serving
Jump to Recipe
Saved!

The Broadside is a cocktail built on rum, celebrated for its spicy and citrusy character — a consistently top-searched summer. Whether you're after a reliable cocktail parties option or simply want to master a classic, this 5-minute recipe is straightforward enough for home bars yet refined enough to impress. Perfect if you've been searching for the best seaside.

Ingredients

Serves
1 serving
Glass
Highball glass
Prep
5 min
  • 1 shot151 proof rum
  • 1/2 shotScotch
  • 3 dropsBitters
  • 1 FreshWormwood
  • cubesIce

Method

Preparation

  1. 01

    Half fill the glass with ice cubes. Crush the wormwood and add to ice. Pour rum, scotch and butters, then serve!

Origin

History & Origins

The Broadside is a nautical-themed cocktail inspired by naval traditions and maritime history, representing the powerful broadsides fired from sailing ships. This dramatic drink emerged from bars with nautical themes and became popular among sailing enthusiasts and coastal bar communities. The Broadside exemplifies how bartenders draw inspiration from historical and cultural themes to create memorable drinks.

Bartender’s Insight

Pro Tips

Use dark rum to evoke nautical tradition

From James

  • Incorporate citrus juice for balanced acidity

  • Shake vigorously to create proper aeration

  • Serve over crushed ice for extended chilling

  • Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint

At the Table

Perfect Pairings

Fish and chips
Seafood chowder
Smoked fish
Sea salt caramel
Anchovy crostini
Clam fritters

Beyond the Classic

Variations

Full Broadside

Adds extra spirits for increased potency

Spiced Broadside

Incorporates spiced rum and ginger beer

Dark Broadside

Uses premium dark rum for deeper flavor profile

Questions

Frequently Asked

Broadside Recipe — Authentic Rum Cocktail | Hero Cocktails | Hero Cocktails