5PM at Noon

The story

The 5PM at Noon cocktail is a modern creation that showcases the versatility of rum in mixology. While the exact origin is unclear, it has gained popularity in craft cocktail bars due to its refreshing and vibrant flavor profile. The combination of citrus and elderflower liqueur provides a unique twist, making it a favorite for daytime drinking and social gatherings.

How it tastes

This cocktail offers a balanced sweetness from the agave syrup and elderflower liqueur, complemented by the tartness of fresh lemon juice. The Aperol adds a slight bitterness, while the rum serves as a smooth base. It's best enjoyed in warmer months or during brunch.

Getting it right

The key to a successful 5PM at Noon is in the shaking technique. Ensure you shake vigorously with ice to chill the mixture thoroughly and achieve a frothy texture. Fine straining is crucial to remove any pulp and achieve a smooth pour into the coupe glass.

Variations

• 5PM at Midnight — Replace the light rum with dark rum for a richer flavor profile.
• Elderflower Spritz — Omit the rum and Aperol, adding sparkling wine for a lighter, bubbly version.

Substitutions

• Bacardi Carta Blanca — Any light rum can be used as a substitute.
• St. Germain — Other elderflower liqueurs, such as Fiorente, can work as alternatives.
• Agave Syrup — Simple syrup or honey can be used in place of agave syrup.

Questions

Can I make this cocktail in advance?

It's best to prepare the 5PM at Noon fresh, as shaking with ice ensures optimal flavor and texture. However, you can pre-measure the ingredients and mix them just before serving.

What can I use instead of Aperol?

If you don't have Aperol, consider using Campari for a more bitter profile or a fruit-flavored aperitif for a different twist.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of this drink?

You can create a non-alcoholic version by replacing the rum and liqueurs with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic spirit, maintaining the lemon juice and agave syrup for flavor.

This text was drafted by a language model from the catalogue’s data and is machine-translated outside English.

Updated October 5, 2026