Three Dots and a Dash Cocktail Recipe

Are you ready to dive into the exotic world of tiki cocktails? The Three Dots and a Dash isn’t just a drink – it’s a piece of history in a glass. With its rich rum blend, tropical flavors, and symbolic garnish, this cocktail tells a story while delighting your taste buds.

The Story Behind Three Dots and a Dash

Created during World War II by tiki founding father Donn Beach (born Ernest Raymond Beaumont Gantt), the Three Dots and a Dash has a name loaded with meaning. The name represents Morse code for the letter “V” (• • • —), which stood for “Victory” during the war.

Donn Beach served in the American Air Force from 1942 to 1945 and created this cocktail as a tribute to the Allied forces. The clever garnish of three cherries (the dots) and a pineapple spear (the dash) visually represents this Morse code message.

Three Dots and a Dash Ingredients

What makes this tiki classic so special? Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 1/2 oz (45ml) aged rhum agricole (preferably AOC Martinique rhum agricole vieux)
• 1/2 oz (15ml) blended aged rum
• 1/2 oz (15ml) fresh lime juice
• 1/2 oz (15ml) fresh orange juice
• 1/2 oz (15ml) honey syrup (equal parts honey and water)
• 1/4 oz (7.5ml) falernum (preferably John D. Taylor’s Velvet Falernum)
• 1/4 oz (7.5ml) allspice dram (St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram works well)
• 1 dash Angostura bitters

The beauty of this drink lies in its balance of different rums, citrus, and spice elements. The rhum agricole brings grassy, earthy notes, while the aged rum adds depth and richness.

Step-by-Step Mixing Guide

Ready to make this tropical classic? Here’s how:

1. Prepare your honey syrup by mixing equal parts honey and hot water until dissolved, then allow to cool.
2. Add all liquid ingredients to a cocktail shaker.
3. Add crushed ice to the shaker and shake briefly (about 5-10 seconds).
4. Strain into a tiki mug or tall glass filled with fresh crushed ice.
5. Garnish with three maraschino cherries on a pick (the three dots) and a pineapple spear or frond (the dash).

For an authentic tiki experience, a “flash blend” method is sometimes preferred. This involves briefly blending all ingredients with crushed ice in a blender, then pouring the entire contents into your glass.

Alternative Ingredients and Substitutes

Don’t have all the specialty ingredients? Here are some substitutions that work:

• Rhum Agricole: If you can’t find rhum agricole, a good quality aged rum can work as a substitute, though you’ll miss some of the grassy notes that make this cocktail special.
• Falernum: If falernum is unavailable, mix 2 parts simple syrup with 1 part lime juice and add a pinch of cloves and grated almonds.
• Allspice Dram: Make a simple substitute by steeping allspice berries in rum with simple syrup.
• Honey Syrup: Raw blue agave or a rich simple syrup can stand in for honey syrup.

The recipe has evolved over time, with some modern versions replacing the orange juice with dry orange curaçao for a less “muddy” flavor profile.

What Makes Three Dots and a Dash Special

What sets this cocktail apart from other tiki drinks is its perfect balance of flavors. Unlike many tiki drinks that lean heavily on sweetness, Three Dots and a Dash is notably drier and spicier.

The allspice dram functions as the “salt and pepper” of the cocktail, bringing warming notes of gingerbread and toasted nutmeg that contrast beautifully with the sweet, syrupy falernum.

The drinking experience evolves as you sip – first hitting with bright citrus notes, then transitioning to honey sweetness, and finishing with a lingering spice from the allspice. This complexity makes it a standout in the tiki category.

Taste Profile

Three Dots and a Dash offers an evolving taste experience:

• Aroma: Inviting notes of cherry, clove, vanilla, and buttery sugarcane
• First Sip: Bright citrus flavors engage the front of the tongue
• Mid-Palate: Sweet honey notes and rum depth emerge
• Finish: Allspice and clove linger pleasantly, offering warming spice

The cocktail balances sweet, sour, and spicy elements in perfect harmony. It’s less sweet than many tiki drinks, with the spice elements playing a more prominent role.

Serving Suggestions

To serve Three Dots and a Dash with authentic tiki flair:

• Use a traditional tiki mug, tall glass, or footed pilsner
• Always serve with crushed ice for proper dilution and temperature
• Include a straw for sipping
• The garnish isn’t just decorative – it’s essential to the drink’s identity

For extra visual impact, add an orchid flower beside the cherries and pineapple garnish.

Perfect Pairings: Appetizers That Complement

The complex flavors of Three Dots and a Dash pair beautifully with:

• Polynesian-style pork skewers: The savory, slightly sweet meat complements the spiced rum flavors
• Coconut shrimp: The tropical sweetness of coconut echoes the drink’s island heritage
• Pineapple and bacon bites: The sweet-savory combination works wonderfully with the cocktail’s spice notes
• Crab rangoon: The creamy filling contrasts with the drink’s spice elements
• Taro chips with tropical salsa: The crunchy texture and fruity flavors make a perfect match

Light, tropical-themed appetizers work best, avoiding heavy flavors that would compete with the cocktail’s complexity.

Alcohol Content and Nutritional Values

Three Dots and a Dash is a moderately strong cocktail:

• ABV (Alcohol By Volume): Approximately 18-19% (stronger than wine but not as potent as straight spirits)
• Calories: Around 245-250 calories per serving
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 26g
• Sugar: About 24g
• Standard Drinks: Contains roughly 1.5 standard drinks

The calorie content comes primarily from the alcoholic ingredients and the honey syrup, making it a relatively indulgent cocktail choice.

Tips for the Perfect Three Dots and a Dash

For the best possible version of this classic:

• Use fresh-squeezed citrus juices – the difference is noticeable
• Don’t skip the allspice dram – it’s crucial to the cocktail’s distinctive flavor
• Pay attention to your ice quality – crushed ice is best for proper dilution
• Consider the visual presentation – the garnish tells the story of the drink’s name
• Use quality rums – the better your rum selection, the better your cocktail

With its fascinating history, complex flavor profile, and striking presentation, the Three Dots and a Dash offers a true tiki experience that stands the test of time. Whether you’re a tiki enthusiast or new to tropical cocktails, this wartime classic delivers a taste of victory in every sip.

Raise a glass to Donn Beach and his enduring contribution to cocktail culture – one that continues to delight cocktail lovers around the world today.