Headhunter
The Headhunter cocktail is a delightful mix of sweet, sour, and fruity flavors. It has a strong tropical taste, with hints of citrus and pineapple. The rum adds a warm, smooth finish to the drink.
Three Dots and a Dash Cocktail Recipe
Jump to Recipe ⬇️
Three Dots and a Dash Nutrition Facts
Calories:230
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:20g
Alcohol:20%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: January 7, 2024
Contents
- 1History
- 2How Three Dots and a Dash Tastes?
- 3Interesting facts about Three Dots and a Dash
- 4Ingredients 🍾
- 5Recipe. How to make Three Dots and a Dash Drink 🍸
- 6Pro Tips
- 7Perfect Pairings
- 8What you could change in Three Dots and a Dash
- 9Twists
- 10Additional Information
- 11Frequently Asked Questions
- 12More Similar Recipes!
History
Three Dots and a Dash is a classic tiki cocktail created by the legendary Don the Beachcomber in the 1940s. The name of the drink is Morse code for the letter 'V', which stands for 'Victory' and was a popular slogan during World War II. This exotic cocktail is perfect for those who love tropical flavors and a bit of history.
- Don the Beachcomber is considered the founding father of tiki culture and tiki bars
- The cocktail was created as a tribute to the Allied Forces during World War II
- It remains a popular choice at tiki bars around the world
How Three Dots and a Dash Tastes?
The Three Dots and a Dash cocktail is a delightful combination of sweet, sour, and fruity flavors. It has a rich and complex taste, with notes of citrus, honey, and spices. The rum adds a warming, smooth finish to the drink.
Interesting facts about Three Dots and a Dash
- The name 'Three Dots and a Dash' comes from the Morse code for the letter 'V', which was used as a symbol of victory during World War II
- The garnish for this cocktail, a combination of three cherries and a pineapple spear, represents the three dots and a dash in Morse code
- Don the Beachcomber, the creator of this cocktail, was also responsible for inventing other famous tiki drinks like the Zombie and the Mai Tai
Ingredients
- Aged martinique rum: 1.5 oz(45ml)
- Aged demerara rum: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Lime juice: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Orange juice: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Honey syrup: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Falernum: 0.25 oz(8ml)
- Allspice dram: 1 dash
- Crushed ice: 1 cup
- Garnish: 3 Maraschino Cherries
- Garnish: 1 Pineapple Spear
Aged Martinique Rum
Aged Martinique Rum adds a grassy and a slightly funky complexity due to its agricole nature. 1.5 oz gives the cocktail a strong rum foundation, but not too overpowering. If you skimp, you'll lose that rum character; overdo it and you might as well be on a pirate ship!
Alex Green
Aged Demerara Rum
0.5 oz of Aged Demerara Rum brings in a dark, caramel-like sweetness, balancing out the tartness of the citrus. Less could make the drink too sharp, more and you'll feel like you're drinking syrup. It's like a supporting actor that steals the show when overused.
Emma Rose
Lime Juice
The 0.5 oz Lime Juice is essential for that tangy kick, which brightens the drink. Less lime juice, your cocktail might taste flat; too much, and you're in sour city!
Mary Mitkina
Orange Juice
Another 0.5 oz here, Orange Juice lends a gentler citrus note and a touch of sweetness. It's like the lime's more laid-back cousin who makes sure things don't get too rowdy.
Alex Green
Honey Syrup
0.5 oz Honey Syrup cozies up with the rums to smooth out the drink's edges with its velvety sweetness. If you're stingy with it, the drink might sting back with tartness; drown the drink in honey, and it's no longer a cocktail but a bear's brunch.
Emma Rose
Falernum
This sweet syrup with hints of almond, ginger, and lime (usually) dances in at 0.25 oz. It's the secret handshake of the tiki world – too subtle and the magic is lost; too much and it's like chewing on a spice rack.
Mary Mitkina
Allspice Dram
Just a dash brings an exotic whisper of warm spice to the party. Omit it and you'll miss that 'What's that?' moment; overdo it, and it's Christmas in July.
Alex Green
Crushed Ice
1 cup keeps the drink frosty and dilutes it to perfection as it's sipped. Too little ice? Hope you like your cocktails lukewarm. Too much and you're on a one-way trip to brain freeze central.
Emma Rose
Garnishes
3 Maraschino Cherries and 1 Pineapple Spear aren't just eye candy; they suggest the drink's sweet-tart profile. Skipping garnishes is like forgetting to put the star on the Christmas tree.
Mary Mitkina
Recipe. How to make Three Dots and a Dash Drink
- Combine all ingredients (except garnishes) in a cocktail shaker
- Add crushed ice and shake well
- Strain the mixture into a tall tiki glass or Collins glass filled with fresh crushed ice
- Garnish with three maraschino cherries and a pineapple spear, representing the three dots and a dash in Morse code
Pro Tips
- Use fresh juices for the best flavor. The difference between fresh and bottled can be significant.
- Shake well to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.
- Chill your glass before pouring the cocktail into it. This will keep your drink cooler for longer.
Perfect Pairings
Seafood
- Grilled Shrimp: The citrus and sweetness from the cocktail complements the smokiness of the shrimp.
- Crab Cakes: The fruit flavors in the cocktail enhance the richness of the crab.
Spicy Dishes
- Jerk Chicken: The complexity of the drink matches the depth of spices in the chicken.
Snacks
- Polynesian-inspired Appetizers: Such as chicken skewers with pineapple. The drink's tropical vibe is a great match.
Desserts
- Tropical Fruit Sorbet: To echo the fruity notes of the cocktail.
🍹 Discover the Top 50 All-Time Recipes! 🍹
Enter your email, and we'll send the exclusive list straight to your inbox.
We respect your privacy and take protecting it seriously
What you could change in Three Dots and a Dash
- Martinique Rum: Can be replaced with any other aged rum if not available.
- Demerara Rum: A dark rum can be used as a substitute.
- Allspice Dram: If not available, a pinch of ground allspice can be used.
Explore all drinks starting with T here
And of course - twists🍹
Coconut Three Dots and a Dash
- Substitute Honey Syrup with Coconut Cream
- Add 1 oz of Coconut Water
Give the cocktail a creamy and tropical coconut twist that'll make you feel like you've been whisked away to a secluded beach.
Spicy Three Dots and a Dash
- Infuse the Aged Martinique Rum with Habanero Peppers
- Add a small slice of Jalapeno to the shaker
Turn up the heat with a spicy kick that contrasts the cocktail's inherent sweetness and brings some daring excitement to the mix.
Smoky Three Dots and a Dash
- Use a Mezcal in place of Aged Demerara Rum
- Add a pinch of smoked salt to the shaker
Introduce a smoky dimension to the cocktail, tailored for those who love the mystique and depth that comes from a hint of smoke.
In case you forgot basics how to make Three Dots and a Dash
Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
If you want to drink something else - you can use our AI-augmented search to find the best cocktail for you!
Completely free!
Frequently Asked Questions on Three Dots and a Dash
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Three Dots and a Dash cocktail?
Yes, you can create a mocktail version of Three Dots and a Dash by substituting the rums with non-alcoholic alternatives and the honey syrup with simple syrup.
Where can I find Falernum and Allspice Dram?
Both Falernum and Allspice Dram are available in liquor stores or online. They are also commonly found in stores that specialize in fine wine and spirits.
Can I make my own honey syrup?
Yes, you can make your own honey syrup by mixing equal parts of honey and warm water until they are well combined.
What kind of rum is Demerara rum?
Demerara rum is a type of rum made from sugar cane juice that's grown in the Demerara region of Guyana. It's known for its rich, dark flavor.
What type of food pairs well with the Three Dots and a Dash cocktail?
Given its tropical and sweet flavors, it pairs well with spicy dishes, grilled meats or fish, or tropical fruit desserts.
More similar recipes to Three Dots and a Dash!
Explore new cocktails you'd love!
exoticPin It
Inca
The Inca cocktail has a complex and well-balanced taste, featuring sweet, sour, and slightly bitter notes. The fruity flavors from the passion fruit and pineapple are complemented by the warmth of the pisco and the herbal touch of the bitters.
Indian Summer
The Indian Summer cocktail is a delightful blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. The sweetness of the mango and the tartness of the lime juice create a perfect balance, while the ginger and chili add a subtle heat that lingers on the palate. The overall taste is refreshing, fruity, and exotic.
Hot Buttered Rum
Hot Buttered Rum has a rich, creamy, and buttery taste with a hint of sweetness from the brown sugar and a warming sensation from the spices and rum. The flavors are well-balanced, making it a perfect winter cocktail.
Butter Rum
The Butter Rum cocktail is a rich, creamy, and indulgent drink with a smooth, buttery texture. The sweetness of the rum is balanced by the warmth of the spices, creating a deliciously complex flavor profile.
Glogg
Glogg has a warm, spiced, and slightly sweet taste. The combination of red wine, brandy, and spices creates a rich and comforting flavor profile that is perfect for sipping on a cold winter night.
Penicillin
The Penicillin cocktail is a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, spicy, and smoky flavors. The honey and lemon provide a bright, refreshing sweetness, while the ginger adds a warm, spicy kick. The blended Scotch whisky gives the drink a smooth, rich base, and the Islay Scotch lends a distinct smoky, peaty finish.
Hot Toddy
The Hot Toddy is a warm, soothing, and comforting cocktail with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. The sweetness of honey and the warmth of whiskey are complemented by the tanginess of lemon and the subtle spiciness of cinnamon and cloves.
Navy Grog
Navy Grog is a well-balanced cocktail with a complex flavor profile. It's strong, yet refreshing, with a combination of sweet, sour, and spicy notes. The rum provides a rich, warm base, while the citrus juices add a bright, tangy element. The honey and spices round out the flavor, giving the drink a touch of sweetness and depth.
Margarita
The Margarita is a well-balanced cocktail with a bright, citrusy flavor. It is both sweet and sour, with the tanginess of lime juice complementing the sweetness of the orange liqueur. The tequila adds a strong, earthy backbone, while the salt rim enhances the overall taste and adds a savory touch.
Daiquiri
The Daiquiri is a refreshing, tangy, and slightly sweet cocktail with a hint of citrus. It has a light and crisp taste, making it perfect for warm weather or as an aperitif.
Pina Colada
The Piña Colada is a sweet, creamy, and fruity cocktail with a smooth texture. The flavors of pineapple and coconut blend harmoniously, creating a tropical taste sensation. The rum adds a subtle warmth and depth to the drink.
Barracuda
The Barracuda cocktail is a delightful mix of sweet, sour, and slightly bitter flavors. The sweetness of the pineapple juice and the tanginess of the lime juice create a refreshing, fruity base, while the rum adds a warm, rich depth. The Galliano liqueur provides a subtle hint of herbal bitterness, balancing out the overall taste and making it a well-rounded, satisfying drink.
Yellow Bird
The Yellow Bird cocktail has a sweet and fruity taste, with a hint of sourness from the lime juice. It is a well-balanced drink that is both refreshing and flavorful. The combination of rum, Galliano, and fruit juices creates a tropical and exotic flavor profile that is perfect for warm weather and beachside sipping.
Bali Hai
The Bali Hai cocktail is a sweet and fruity drink with a hint of tartness. It has a tropical flavor profile, with notes of pineapple, coconut, and citrus. The drink is well-balanced, with the sweetness of the fruit juices being offset by the tanginess of the lime and the slight bitterness of the rum.
Screwdriver
The Screwdriver cocktail offers a bright, citrusy, and slightly sweet flavor profile. The smoothness of the vodka is complemented by the tangy and refreshing taste of the orange juice, making it a well-balanced and easy-to-drink cocktail.
Kamikaze
The Kamikaze cocktail has a refreshing, tangy taste with a hint of sweetness. It is a well-balanced mix of sour, sweet, and strong flavors, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy citrus-based cocktails.
Lemon Drop Martini
The Lemon Drop Martini has a bright, zesty, and slightly sweet taste. The combination of lemon juice and simple syrup creates a perfect balance of sour and sweet, while the vodka adds a smooth and strong kick. The sugar rim adds an extra touch of sweetness to each sip.
Painkiller
The Painkiller cocktail is a delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. The combination of pineapple and orange juices creates a fruity base, while the coconut cream adds a rich, creamy sweetness. The dark rum provides a strong, warming backbone, and the freshly grated nutmeg on top adds a subtle hint of spice.
Mary Pickford
The Mary Pickford cocktail is a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and fruity flavors. The pineapple juice and grenadine give it a tropical sweetness, while the maraschino liqueur adds a hint of cherry and almond. The rum provides a smooth and slightly warming finish.
Quarantine
The Quarantine cocktail is a delightful mix of sweet, sour, and slightly spicy flavors. The fruity notes from the orange and pineapple juices are balanced by the tangy lime and the subtle heat from the ginger syrup, while the rum adds a smooth, warming finish.
Martini
The Martini has a crisp, clean, and slightly herbal taste. It is a strong and sophisticated cocktail with a hint of bitterness from the vermouth.
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned has a rich, complex taste that is both sweet and bitter. The whiskey provides a strong, warming base, while the sugar and bitters add a touch of sweetness and a hint of spice. The orange and cherry garnish add a subtle fruity note.
Manhattan
The Manhattan cocktail is a well-balanced blend of sweet, bitter, and strong flavors. The sweetness comes from the vermouth, while the bitterness is derived from the aromatic bitters. The whiskey provides a robust and full-bodied taste, making the drink a perfect choice for those who enjoy a strong and complex cocktail.
Mojito
The Mojito is a refreshing, sweet, and slightly sour cocktail with a hint of mint and a subtle rum kick. It is a well-balanced drink that is both invigorating and easy to sip.
Flaming Dr. Pepper
The Flaming Dr. Pepper has a unique, sweet, and slightly spicy taste. It is reminiscent of the Dr. Pepper soft drink, with a hint of caramel and a warming sensation from the flaming alcohol.
Cuban Missile Crisis
This cocktail has a bold, complex taste with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and bitter flavors. The rum provides a strong, warming sensation, while the lime juice adds a refreshing tanginess. The bitters and sugar syrup round out the flavor profile, making it a truly satisfying and memorable drink.