History & Heritage
“The Clarified Jungle Bird transforms Jeffrey Ong's 1973 creation from the Kuala Lumpur Hilton through modern milk-washing techniques. This version emerged from the craft cocktail renaissance, applying centuries-old clarification methods to create a crystal-clear cocktail with remarkable silky texture while preserving the signature bitter-sweet-funky harmony.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
This is a pre-batched cocktail requiring milk washing preparation
Combine all ingredients and pour into cold whole milk
Allow to curdle and rest for 1-24 hours
Strain through coffee filter until crystal clear
Serve 3.75 oz over large clear ice cube in rocks glass
Garnish with a single brandied cherry
Glassware
Crystal-clear rocks glass with large ice cube
Garnish
High-quality brandied cherry
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Requires advance preparation – allow 2-24 hours for clarification
Use high-ester Jamaican rum like Smith & Cross
Fresh pineapple juice is essential for proper curdling
Patience is key – don't rush the filtration process
Clarified batch keeps for months when refrigerated
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Clarified Jungle Bird.
Other Variations
More Bitter
Increase Campari for stronger bitter backbone.
Changes
Sweeter Style
Increase demerara syrup for more balanced sweetness.
Changes
Clarified Jungle Bird Blend
Use multiple rum styles for added complexity.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
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Gin Jungle Bird
A modern, sophisticated twist on the classic tiki-era Jungle Bird, substituting the traditional rum with the botanical complexity of gin.
Jungle Bird
Malaysia's 1970s tiki gift: blackstrap rum, Campari, pineapple and lime shaken into a bittersweet tropical sipper.