Jungle Bird | Mezcal | Recipes | Tequila | Tiki Cocktails
Jungle Booby
Flavor Profile: Smoky, bitter, citrusy, complex
Jungle Booby is an unexpected riff from NYC bartender Brian Miller that swaps rum for a smoky combo of tequila and mezcal. First published in Imbibe, this version adds grapefruit juice, absinthe, and a generous hit of Campari for one of the boldest spins on the Jungle Bird we’ve seen.
It’s a drink that leans into bitter and earthy notes, balanced by bright pineapple and lime. Not everyone’s cup of tropical tea — but if you’re into complex, smoky sippers, this one will absolutely fly.
Jungle Booby
A bold Jungle Bird riff featuring tequila, mezcal, grapefruit, and absinthe. Smoky, bitter, and complex — not for the faint of heart.
Servings: 1 Cocktail
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Blanco Tequila
- 0.5 oz Mezcal
- 0.5 oz Campari
- 0.5 oz Orgeat
- 0.5 oz Fresh Lime Juice
- 0.5 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
- 1 oz Pineapple Juice
- 4 dashes Absinthe
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice.
- Shake until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice.
- Garnish with pineapple fronds.
- Optional: Add a Jungle Bird pin for flair.
Notes
Created by Brian Miller at The Polynesian, this riff swaps out rum for tequila and mezcal, adding grapefruit and absinthe for an extra bitter edge. It’s a bold and smoky take on the Jungle Bird for adventurous palates.
Looking for something a little more mellow? Try the Famous Bird for a gentler mezcal option, or browse the full Jungle Bird collection for every feathered flavor.
