Living on an island takes some getting used to. The islands move at their own plodding gait, with no real destination in mind. It’s a slow, easy trail full of smiles and breaks in the shade. There’s a calm simplicity to the way people do things down here. Simple living, island style.
This simplicity extends to the best of Caribbean cocktails. Easy favorites, like the Barbados Swizzle or Hemmingway Daiquiri, have helped to caution a new generation of bartender on the dangers of over thinking.
Out on the fringes of our noble profession, though, there lurks a dark sub-culture of cocktailia fraught with overindulgence; a sect that just can’t say “NO” to an extra gimmicky ingredient or two.

Uncommon Caribbean is pleased to welcome our 1st contributor, Jesse Card, who also happens to be our favorite St. Croix mixologist. Get to know him here; read on to see what he has to say…
“I want a tropical drink, but please don’t say Painkiller…”
This, a 40 something good natured woman sitting at my bar asked last week. It was her last night on St. Croix, and while she had a great time exploring the island’s dynamic undersea wonders, she yearned to break free of the same tired drink options offered above water.
“Painkiller, Bushwacker, Painkiller, Bushwacker! It’s like they’re the only two drinks around here!”
Let’s try something different that showcases our local Caribbean flavors, without sacrificing integrity or using a blender.