Episode 124: Three Dots and A Dash

Mar 16

Ep. 123: Morse Code & Mexican Twists - Three Dots and A Dash

Welcome to Season 7 episode 124 of The Art of Drinking with Join Jules and Your Favorite Uncle

In this episode of The Art of Drinking, Uncle Brad and Jules dive into one of the most iconic tiki cocktails ever created: the Three Dots and a Dash. Known for its bold rum blend, vibrant tropical flavors, and symbolic garnish, this classic rum cocktail is a staple of tiki bars and home bartenders alike.

Uncle Brad walks through the traditional Three Dots and a Dash recipe, explaining the layered rum profile and balanced mix of citrus, honey, and spice that made this drink a legend in tiki culture. Jules follows with an unexpected Mexican-inspired twist—and no, it’s not tequila—showing how small ingredient swaps can transform a classic cocktail while keeping its spirit intact.

Along the way, Brad and Jules explore the fascinating history of the Three Dots and a Dash cocktail, including the story of its famous Morse code name and the tiki pioneer who created it. The episode wraps up with their expert rum bottle recommendations, perfect if you’re looking for holiday gifts for rum lovers or cocktail enthusiasts.

Whether you’re a tiki fan, rum collector, or just looking for your next great classic cocktail recipe, this episode blends cocktail history, rum education, and creative riffs.

In this episode:

The history of the Three Dots and a Dash cocktail
How to make the classic tiki drink recipe
Jules’ Mexican-inspired riff
Tips for choosing the best rum for tiki cocktails
Rum gift recommendations for the holiday season

Perfect for fans of tiki cocktails, classic rum drinks, tropical cocktails, and vintage tiki culture.

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Click here for the recipes this episode!

The History of the Three Dots and a Dash Cocktail

The Three Dots and a Dash is one of the most famous cocktails from the golden age of tiki bars. The drink was created during World War II by legendary tiki bartender Victor J. Bergeron, better known as Trader Vic, founder of the iconic Trader Vic's.

The name comes from Morse code: three dots and a dash represent the letter “V,” which stood for “Victory” during the war. The drink became a subtle celebration of the Allied victory effort, and its garnish reflects the code itself—traditionally three cocktail cherries and a pineapple spear, visually recreating the dots and dash.

Like many classic tiki drinks, the cocktail blends multiple rums with citrus and sweeteners to create a layered tropical flavor. The original recipe typically features aged rum, orange curaçao, fresh lime juice, honey syrup, falernum, and aromatic bitters, creating a cocktail that is both bright and complex.

Today, the Three Dots and a Dash remains a cornerstone of tiki cocktail culture and is considered one of the most important rum cocktails ever created. It’s still served at tiki bars around the world and even inspired the famous Chicago tiki bar Three Dots and a Dash, named in honor of the drink.

This weeks tip section will be dedicated to answering YOUR questions