Brass Monkey Drink Recipe – Funky Twist with 3 Easy Ingredients

Brass Monkey Drink: Retro Cocktail with a Funky Twist

If you’ve ever tapped your toes to the Beastie Boys or rummaged through an old liquor cabinet and spotted a dusty bottle labeled “Brass Monkey,” you’ve probably wondered—what’s the story behind this funky drink? This article brings you the full scoop on the brass monkey drink: its surprising history, what’s in it, how to make it, and why it’s stuck around since the 1970s. From cocktail lore to pop culture shout-outs, we’re covering every drop.

The Story Behind the Brass Monkey Drink

The birth of a 70s classic

I remember the first time I heard someone order a brass monkey drink. I was probably 19, still learning the ropes in my grandma’s kitchen, trying to pull off a batch of peach cobbler when my cousin slid an old Heublein bottle across the counter. “Try this,” he said, grinning. The label was faded, but the name? Unforgettable.

The brass monkey drink was first sold as a bottled premixed cocktail by Heublein in the 1970s. Back then, it was one of the original grab-and-go options for folks who didn’t want to fuss with measuring or mixing. The original mix was simple—vodka, dark rum, and orange juice—pre-chilled and ready to pour over ice. Think of it like the wine coolers of its day but with a much stronger kick. If you peek at this vintage cocktail guide, you’ll notice Heublein wasn’t just dabbling—brass monkey drink was a flagship product, especially popular on dance floors and cruise ships.

I’ve always been drawn to those kinds of drinks: the ones with a backstory, a little swagger, and a lot of orange juice.

Why the Beastie Boys made it legendary

Fast-forward to 1986, and the brass monkey drink got a brand-new audience thanks to the Beastie Boys. In their hit song “Brass Monkey,” they turned the cocktail into a party anthem. Lines like “That funky monkey” weren’t just clever rhymes—they were cultural endorsements. According to Mike D himself, they were rapping about the Heublein bottled version, not some made-up mix or malt liquor myth. That detail matters, especially if you’re someone who’s heard about the beer-plus-orange-juice variation.

The Beastie Boys’ shoutout revived interest in the brass monkey drink during the 80s and beyond, cementing it in pop culture. While some folks started calling any combo of malt liquor and juice a “brass monkey,” purists (like me) still stick to the original trio: vodka, rum, and OJ. It’s kind of like how people mess with a Rum Screwdriver and call it something new. Same DNA, different name.

This mix of musical fame and old-school roots gave the brass monkey drink its lasting edge. Even now, it’s the kind of cocktail that pops up on themed drink menus like the Brass Monkey Chicago lineup, where retro meets revival.

Brass Monkey Drink Served with Garnish — Best served chilled with a fresh orange slice.

What Is a Brass Monkey Drink Made Of?

Classic Ingredients & Premixed Version

If you ask ten bartenders “what is a brass monkey drink made of,” chances are they’ll all say the same thing—vodka, dark rum, and orange juice. That’s the classic trio. Each ingredient pulls its weight: the vodka gives it punch, the rum adds depth, and the orange juice keeps things smooth. It’s a simple cocktail with no fancy syrups or muddled herbs—just three parts that play well together over ice.

Traditionally, it’s poured right into a highball or rocks glass. The usual ratio? One part vodka, one part dark rum, and two parts orange juice. But truth be told, some folks prefer equal parts of each, especially if they’re feeling nostalgic for that potent premixed version from the ’70s. Speaking of which…

Heublein’s premixed brass monkey drink wasn’t just convenient—it was iconic. Packaged in brown glass bottles and often sold in fifths or 750ml, it was ready to serve and strong enough to get the party going fast. The original label simply read “Brass Monkey,” and behind that name was a no-frills recipe designed to be poured straight over ice. If you’re lucky, you might still spot one on an auction site or find its modern descendant, the Club Brass Monkey drink.

Premixed bottles vs fresh cocktail

So how does the bottled version stack up against the homemade one? It depends on what you’re after. The bottled brass monkey drink had a signature bite—partly from the alcohol, partly from its shelf life. Some swear it had a hint of bitterness or a sharper citrus tang, which fresh juice easily softens. That’s why making it at home wins for most people today.

Then there’s the twist introduced by 80s partygoers who, inspired by the Beastie Boys, started mixing malt liquor—usually a 40 oz bottle like Olde English—with orange juice. That version gained traction in urban legend circles, but it’s a far cry from the original cocktail.

If you’re curious about those variations, check out our guide on beer-based mixed drinks. But if you’re after the real deal—the cocktail with backbone and brass—it’s vodka, rum, and orange juice every time.

How to Make a Brass Monkey Drink

Simple in-glass version

Making a brass monkey drink at home couldn’t be easier. You don’t need a shaker, muddler, or even fancy bitters—just a glass, a spoon, and a love for bold flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that respects your time but still hits all the right notes.

Here’s the go-to method:

Fill a highball or rocks glass with ice.
Pour 1 oz dark rum and 1 oz vodka over the ice.
Top with 2 oz fresh orange juice (pulp or no pulp—your call).
Stir gently with a spoon.
Garnish with an orange wedge or a twist of peel if you’re feeling fancy.

That’s it. Just pour, stir, and sip. Some folks like using equal parts for more kick, but this version balances the boozy base with a citrusy finish. The orange juice keeps the brass monkey drink refreshing, even with two types of liquor.

Want to up your home bar game? Check out our guide on must-have cocktail glassware and see why the highball glass is the unsung hero for retro drinks like this one.

Upgrade with variations

If you’re itching to put a personal spin on your brass monkey drink, you’ve got options. One easy tweak? Add a dash of simple syrup or a splash of orange liqueur for more citrus sweetness. Some recipes like the one on Difford’s Guide suggest including sugar syrup for balance, especially if you’re using store-bought juice.

Another route? Swap out dark rum for spiced rum to add warmth and depth. You can also go the other way with a lighter rum for a smoother, fruitier profile. Curious about flavor layers? Our rum pairing guide breaks it down by type and vibe.

Mocktail version? Sure. Just mix orange juice with non-alcoholic dark spirit alternatives, like Lyre’s Dark Cane or Ritual’s rum substitute. It won’t be the same burn, but it keeps the spirit of the drink alive—minus the buzz.

And then there’s the wildcard: Galliano. Some bartenders float this herbal vanilla liqueur on top for a bold twist. It’s not traditional, but it adds a unique flavor echoing drinks like the Harvey Wallbanger.

Whatever your twist, the brass monkey drink is a forgiving base. Stir it, sip it, and own it.

Brass Monkey Drink Culture & Serving Tips

Serving ideas & garnish options

A drink this nostalgic deserves a little flair. The brass monkey drink may be unfussy in its build, but how you serve it can make it shine—especially if you’re hosting a party or setting the mood for a retro night.

For glassware, a chilled highball or a short rocks glass works best. Load it with ice, pour your mix, and you’re halfway to party mode. The drink’s golden-orange hue pops beautifully with a simple orange wheel on the rim, a twist of peel, or even a sprig of mint if you want to dress it up. For more on this, we’ve got a detailed garnish technique guide that covers styles for every mood.

For those serving a crowd, consider a pitcher batch: multiply the base mix by six or eight, mix in a large jug, and chill. It’s a perfect choice for brunches, casual get-togethers, or 80s-themed parties. Just remember to stir before each pour to keep the flavors even.

Presentation matters, and small details—like sugar-rimmed glasses or themed coasters—can elevate your drink without breaking a sweat. Want to keep things authentic? Use glass tumblers that resemble the original Club Brass Monkey drink bottle.

When & why to sip a Brass Monkey

Unlike many cocktails, the brass monkey drink doesn’t tie itself to one season. Its citrus backbone makes it perfect for summer, but that rum-vodka combo gives it enough weight for fall or even winter happy hours.

Culturally, it still taps into deep nostalgia. If you grew up in the 80s or 90s, it likely reminds you of funky beats, mixtapes, and your first taste of grown-up drinks. Today, it’s a novelty on modern cocktail menus—from Brass Monkey NYC to craft bars channeling retro vibes.

If you’re looking for a versatile drink that works across moods and moments, this one fits. It’s playful but packs a punch. It’s a conversation starter with history. And it slides in seamlessly alongside other orange juice classics like the Screwdriver and Cuba Libre.

In short? It’s the kind of drink you bring out when the music’s loud, the vibes are easy, and your crowd is ready to dance—or just chill with a piece of cocktail history in hand.

FAQs

What is a Brass Monkey drink made of?

The classic brass monkey drink includes dark rum, vodka, and orange juice. Typically poured over ice in a highball glass, it balances strong spirits with citrus smoothness.

What is the Brass Monkey drink in the Beastie Boys?

The Beastie Boys were referencing Heublein’s bottled brass monkey drink—a premixed cocktail that became iconic in the late ’70s and peaked during the 1980s.

What exactly is Brass Monkey?

Brass Monkey can refer to the original Heublein bottle, a homemade mix of rum, vodka, and orange juice, or a beer-based malt liquor variation popularized in hip-hop culture.

What is a Brass Monkey 40 oz?

It’s a slang version of the cocktail made by mixing orange juice with a 40 oz bottle of malt liquor like Olde English—not the original recipe, but a pop-culture variant.

Conclusion

The brass monkey drink is more than just a cocktail—it’s a time capsule in a glass. Whether you sip it for its citrusy kick, the cultural nostalgia, or just because you love easy mixed drinks that still pack flavor, this one delivers. Mix it your way, pour generously, and toast to the funky spirit that’s kept it alive for decades.