The Daily Double C cocktail stands out as one of the most straightforward drinks in the cocktail world. This two-ingredient wonder proves that complexity isn’t always necessary for creating a memorable drink.
With just rum and Italian vermouth, this cocktail delivers a balanced profile that appeals to both beginners and seasoned cocktail enthusiasts. The drink’s simplicity makes it perfect for home bartenders who want to create something special without extensive ingredient lists or complicated techniques.
Daily Double C Ingredients
The beauty of the Daily Double C lies in its minimalist approach. You need only two main ingredients plus a garnish:
Core Ingredients:
- 1 oz dark or light rum
- 1 oz Italian vermouth (sweet vermouth)
Garnish:
- 2 maraschino cherries
Equipment Needed:
- Cocktail glass (coupe or martini glass)
- Bar spoon for stirring
- Jigger for measuring
The equal ratio of rum to vermouth creates perfect balance. You can experiment with different rum types to change the drink’s character. Dark rum adds richness and molasses notes, while light rum keeps things crisp and clean.
Daily Double C Step-by-Step Mixing Guide
Creating the perfect Daily Double C requires attention to technique despite its simple recipe.
Preparation Steps:
- Chill your glass – Place your cocktail glass in the freezer for 5 minutes or fill with ice water while preparing the drink
- Measure ingredients – Use a jigger to measure exactly 1 oz of rum and 1 oz of Italian vermouth
- Combine in glass – Pour both ingredients directly into the chilled cocktail glass
- Stir gently – Use a bar spoon to stir the mixture 10-15 times to combine the ingredients
- Add garnish – Drop two maraschino cherries into the glass
- Serve immediately – Present the cocktail while properly chilled
Pro Tips:
- Stir gently to avoid diluting the drink too much
- Use quality vermouth for the best flavor
- Chill your ingredients beforehand for optimal temperature
Alternative Ingredients and Daily Double C Substitutes
The Daily Double C’s simple recipe offers room for creative variations.
Rum Alternatives:
- Aged rum for deeper flavor complexity
- Spiced rum for warming notes
- White rum for lighter profile
- Navy strength rum for higher proof
Vermouth Substitutions:
- Sweet red vermouth (Carpano Antica Formula)
- Punt e Mes for bitter complexity
- French sweet vermouth for different flavor profile
- Homemade vermouth for unique taste
Garnish Variations:
- Luxardo cherries for premium presentation
- Orange peel twist for citrus notes
- Lemon peel for bright aromatics
- Fresh cherry when in season
Flavor Modifications:
- Add 2 dashes orange bitters for complexity
- Include 1/4 oz simple syrup for sweetness
- Use dry vermouth instead for drier profile
What I Really Like About the Daily Double C
This cocktail excels in several key areas that make it special.
- Simplicity Without Sacrifice: The Daily Double C proves that great cocktails don’t need long ingredient lists. Two components create something greater than their sum.
- Beginner-Friendly: New cocktail makers can master this drink quickly. No advanced techniques or hard-to-find ingredients required.
- Versatile Profile: The drink works equally well as an aperitif or after-dinner sipper. The vermouth adds herbal complexity while rum provides warmth.
- Quick Preparation: You can make this cocktail in under two minutes. Perfect for spontaneous entertaining or relaxing after work.
- Ingredient Quality Focus: With only two main components, the quality of your rum and vermouth becomes paramount. This encourages investment in better spirits.
- Room for Creativity: The simple base allows for easy experimentation with different rums and vermouths without overwhelming the palate.
Daily Double C History and Creator
The Daily Double C belongs to a category of classic two-ingredient cocktails that emerged during the golden age of cocktail culture in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
- Historical Context: The Daily Double C is a rum-based cocktail made with Italian vermouth, following the traditional template of spirit-and-vermouth combinations that became popular during the cocktail renaissance.
- Classic Cocktail Tradition: The drink follows the established pattern of equal-parts cocktails that gained popularity during the pre-Prohibition era. These simple combinations allowed bartenders to showcase quality ingredients without masking their characteristics.
- Name Origin: The “Daily Double” name likely references the horse racing term, where bettors pick winners in two consecutive races. The “C” designation distinguishes this rum-and-vermouth version from other Daily Double variations.
- Era of Creation: While the exact creator remains unknown, the Daily Double C appears in cocktail databases alongside other mid-20th century recipes. The drink represents the era’s appreciation for straightforward, well-balanced cocktails.
- Cultural Significance: This cocktail embodies the philosophy that good drinks don’t require complexity. It reflects the tradition of Italian-American cocktail culture, combining Caribbean rum with Italian vermouth.
Daily Double C Taste Profile
The Daily Double C offers a sophisticated flavor journey despite its simple construction.
Initial Impression: The nose presents sweet vermouth’s herbal bouquet combined with rum’s sugarcane essence. Maraschino cherry aromatics add fruity sweetness.
Flavor Development: The first sip delivers rum’s warmth balanced by vermouth’s botanical complexity. Sweet and herbal notes interplay across the palate.
Mid-Palate Experience: Italian vermouth contributes vanilla, caramel, and spice notes. The rum provides body and alcohol warmth without overpowering.
Finish: The cocktail leaves a pleasant, lingering sweetness with herbal undertones. Cherry garnish adds fruit notes throughout the drinking experience.
Overall Character:
- Sweetness level: Medium-sweet
- Body: Medium
- Complexity: Moderate
- Alcohol presence: Noticeable but balanced
Flavor Notes:
- Primary: Rum sweetness, vermouth herbs
- Secondary: Vanilla, caramel, spice
- Accent: Cherry, fruit
Daily Double C Serving Suggestions
Proper presentation enhances the Daily Double C experience.
Glassware Options:
- Coupe glass (traditional choice)
- Martini glass (elegant presentation)
- Small wine glass (casual option)
- Nick and Nora glass (vintage style)
Temperature Service: Serve well-chilled but not over-diluted. The drink should be cold without being watery.
Presentation Tips:
- Use quality maraschino cherries for visual appeal
- Ensure glass is spotlessly clean
- Serve on a small cocktail napkin
- Present immediately after preparation
Occasion Suitability:
- Aperitif before dinner
- Evening cocktail hour
- Casual entertaining
- Introduction to vermouth cocktails
- After-work relaxation drink
Seasonal Considerations:
- Fall: Perfect for cooler weather
- Winter: Warming rum provides comfort
- Spring: Light enough for transitional weather
- Summer: Serve extra cold for refreshment
Great Appetizers to Pair with the Daily Double C
The Daily Double C’s sweet-herbal profile complements various appetizers.
Cheese Selections:
- Aged cheddar for sharp contrast
- Manchego for nutty complement
- Gorgonzola for bold pairing
- Brie for creamy richness
Charcuterie Options:
- Prosciutto di Parma
- Salami with herbs
- Sopressata for spice
- Bresaola for lean texture
Nuts and Olives:
- Marcona almonds
- Mixed Mediterranean olives
- Castelvetrano olives
- Roasted walnuts
Small Plates:
- Bruschetta with tomato and basil
- Stuffed mushrooms
- Antipasto selections
- Smoked salmon on crackers
Sweet and Savory:
- Fig and prosciutto crostini
- Dates stuffed with cheese
- Candied nuts
- Chocolate-covered espresso beans
International Flavors:
- Spanish tapas selections
- Italian antipasti
- French hors d’oeuvres
- Caribbean-inspired bites
Daily Double C Alcohol by Volume (ABV)
Understanding the Daily Double C’s alcohol content helps with responsible consumption.
Base Spirit Alcohol:
- Standard rum: 40% ABV (80 proof)
- Italian vermouth: 16-18% ABV
Calculation Method: With equal 1 oz portions:
- Rum contributes: 0.4 oz pure alcohol
- Vermouth contributes: 0.16-0.18 oz pure alcohol
- Total alcohol: 0.56-0.58 oz in 2 oz drink
Final ABV: The Daily Double C contains approximately 28-29% ABV, making it a moderately strong cocktail.
Serving Considerations:
- One drink contains roughly 0.6 oz of pure alcohol
- Equivalent to 1.2 standard drinks
- Allow 1-2 hours between servings
- Food consumption reduces alcohol absorption
Comparison to Other Cocktails:
- Stronger than wine (12-15% ABV)
- Similar to fortified wines
- Weaker than straight spirits
- Comparable to other vermouth cocktails
Responsible Consumption:
- Limit to 1-2 per occasion
- Never drink and drive
- Consume with food when possible
- Stay hydrated with water
Daily Double C Nutritional Values
The Daily Double C’s nutritional profile reflects its simple ingredient list.
Caloric Content (per serving):
- Rum (1 oz): 65 calories
- Italian vermouth (1 oz): 45 calories
- Maraschino cherries (2): 20 calories
- Total: Approximately 130 calories
Macronutrient Breakdown:
- Carbohydrates: 8-10g (primarily from vermouth and cherries)
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Alcohol: 0.6 oz (contributes majority of calories)
Sugar Content:
- Natural sugars from vermouth botanicals
- Added sugars in maraschino cherries
- Total: Approximately 8-12g sugar
Vitamins and Minerals:
- Minimal vitamin content
- Trace minerals from vermouth botanicals
- No significant nutritional benefits
Dietary Considerations:
- Not suitable for diabetics without medical consultation
- Contains sulfites from wine-based vermouth
- Gluten-free when made with standard ingredients
- Vegan-friendly with most ingredient choices
Health Notes:
- Alcohol provides empty calories
- Moderate consumption may have some cardiovascular benefits
- Excessive consumption poses health risks
- Not recommended during pregnancy
The Daily Double C represents cocktail perfection through simplicity. This two-ingredient wonder proves that the best drinks often require the fewest components. Whether you’re new to cocktail making or seeking a reliable, quick option, the Daily Double C delivers satisfaction in every sip.
With its balanced rum-vermouth profile, elegant presentation, and room for creative variations, this cocktail deserves a place in every home bartender’s repertoire. Mix one today and discover why sometimes less truly is more.
