Arielle Cruz
In the United States, a fifth is a slang term for a 750ml bottle of alcoholic spirits, equivalent to one-fifth of a gallon or roughly 17 shots. In Hawaii, a unique spirit called ʻōkolehao is produced, which was historically made from the ti plant root and various fermentables like sugarcane and pineapple. While ʻōkolehao is no longer widely produced, it is an essential part of Hawaii's drinking culture and can be found in cocktails like the Chief's Calabash and the Lei Day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What is a fifth of alcohol | A fifth is a slang term for a 750ml bottle of alcoholic spirits, commonly whiskey or vodka. |
| Other names | One-fifth of a gallon, 25.4 ounces, or 1.5 pints |
| How many shots | Approximately 17 regular-sized shots |
| Hawaiian alcohol | 'Okolehao' is a traditional Hawaiian spirit with a unique flavour. It is made from blending extracts of ti plant root, sugar syrup, rum, neutral spirits, bourbon, and other flavourings. |
| Hawaiian cocktails | Mai Tai, Lava Flow, Chi Chi, Blue Hawaii, and cocktails with li hing mui (dried Chinese plum) and lilikoi (passion fruit) |
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What You'll Learn
Hawaiian cocktails: Mai Tai, Lava Flow, Chi Chi, Blue Hawaii, and more
In Hawaii, a fifth of alcohol refers to a 750 ml bottle of alcoholic spirits, usually whiskey or vodka. This term is derived from the bottle holding one-fifth of a gallon, which is approximately 25.4 ounces or 1.5 pints.
Now, let's explore some popular Hawaiian cocktails:
Mai Tai
A classic Hawaiian cocktail, the Mai Tai is a blend of three types of rum (dark, light, and 151), pineapple juice, orange juice, and various other ingredients added at the bartender's discretion. It is a strong drink, so it is recommended to consume it in moderation. You can find Mai Tais on almost any menu in Waikiki, with each bartender putting their unique twist on this iconic cocktail.
Lava Flow
The Lava Flow is often referred to as the "`dessert cocktail'" due to its resemblance to a tropical ice cream shake. It is fruity, delicious, and lighter in alcohol content than the Mai Tai, making it a perfect choice for occasional drinkers. The Royal Hawaiian Hotel's Mai Tai Bar offers a unique version of this drink, including muddled fresh strawberries, banana, and coconut cream.
Chi Chi
The Chi Chi is very similar to the Lava Flow but without the rum, and it is white in colour. It is a refreshing cocktail, perfect for a warm beach day in Hawaii.
Blue Hawaii
Invented by bartender Harry Yee in 1957, the Blue Hawaii is a light and refreshing cocktail. It typically includes light rum, vodka, blue curacao, pineapple juice, and sweet and sour mix. Some modern recipes also add coconut cream or coconut-flavoured vodka. This drink was created to showcase Bols' newest liqueur, Blue Curacao, and has since become a popular choice in Hawaii.
Other Hawaiian Cocktails
In addition to the cocktails mentioned above, Hawaii offers a range of unique drinks. The Lei Day cocktail, for example, includes \ʻōkolehao, a traditional Hawaiian spirit made from ti plant root, sugar syrup, and various other ingredients. ʻŌkolehao has a distinct earthy and tropical flavour and was once widely consumed in Hawaii. Other popular cocktails include li hing mui rimmed martinis, the Chief's Calabash, and any drink featuring lilikoi (passion fruit), a local favourite.
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Hawaiian drinking laws
In Hawaii, a fifth of alcohol typically refers to a 750 ml bottle of alcoholic spirits, usually whiskey or vodka. The term "fifth" is derived from the bottle size, which is one-fifth of a gallon or approximately 25.4 ounces. While the term is commonly used in the United States, it may not be standard in other parts of the world.
When it comes to drinking laws in Hawaii, the state has a typical drinking age of 21. Alcohol sales are permitted in grocery stores, convenience stores, and gas stations until 11:00 pm. On-premise retailers, such as bars and restaurants, can serve alcohol until 2:00 am, while some establishments with \"cabaret licenses\" can extend their serving hours until 4:00 am. Hawaii's drinking laws also address public consumption. While drinking on the beach is technically prohibited, enforcement varies depending on the location and the presence of lifeguards. Drinking on streets or sidewalks is illegal and can result in citations.
Hawaii's drinking culture includes popular cocktails such as Mai Tai, Lava Flow, Chi Chi, Blue Hawaii, and unique creations with li hing mui (dried Chinese plum) and lilikoi (passion fruit). The state has a history of producing ʻōkolehao, a unique Hawaiian spirit with a flavour of its own, which was once widely consumed but has been replaced by more accessible spirits like rum and vodka.
Hawaii's alcohol industry is regulated by county-level Departments of Liquor Control, which oversee licensing, enforcement, and compliance. The state offers various licenses for manufacturers, brewpubs, and small craft producers, with specific regulations for direct shipping and brand registration. Additionally, Hawaii law allows heads of families to produce up to 200 gallons of wine per year for family use without a license.
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Hawaiian drinking culture
In Hawaii, a fifth of alcohol refers to a 750ml bottle of alcoholic spirits, usually whiskey or vodka. This term is derived from the bottle holding one-fifth of a gallon, which is approximately 25.4 ounces or 1.5 pints. While the term is commonly used in the United States, it is not standard in other parts of the world.
Hawaii has a unique drinking culture that reflects its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The state's drinking laws are relatively moderate, with a typical drinking age of 21. Alcohol sales in stores generally end by 11:00 pm, and bars, restaurants, and nightclubs typically stop serving alcohol at 2:00 am, although some establishments with special "cabaret licenses" can serve until 4:00 am. Drinking alcohol on beaches is technically prohibited, but this rule is often leniently enforced, depending on the specific beach.
Hawaii boasts a range of traditional and iconic drinks that showcase the islands' tropical fruits, plants, and cultural influences. One notable drink is Mai Tai, a classic tropical cocktail that has become synonymous with Hawaiian tiki culture. It is typically made with dark rum, light rum, 151 rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and various other ingredients added at the bartender's discretion. Another popular drink is the Lava Flow, also known as the "dessert cocktail," which is a blend of fruity flavours with a lower alcohol content.
Kava, a traditional Polynesian drink made from the root of the kava plant, holds cultural significance in Hawaii. It is known for its mild sedative effect and is often consumed in social and ceremonial settings, fostering relaxation and social bonding. Kona coffee, grown on the slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Loa in the Kona District, is also renowned worldwide for its smooth, rich flavour and low acidity.
ʻŌkolehao, also known as "oke," is a distinctive Hawaiian alcoholic spirit with a long history in the islands. It was first created by distilling the root of the ti plant, which is native to Polynesia. ʻŌkolehao was embraced by a diverse range of people, from sailors seeking a potent drink to Hawaiian chiefs and even King Kamehameha I. However, due to concerns over excessive consumption, the king outlawed all "strong drink" in 1818. Over time, ʻōkolehao recipes evolved, incorporating various sugar sources such as sugarcane, rice, pineapple, and taro. While its production declined after World War II with the increasing availability of rum and vodka, there has been a recent revival of artisanal ʻōkolehao in Hawaii.
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Okolehao: a traditional Hawaiian spirit
'Okolehao' is a traditional Hawaiian spirit unique to the islands. It is a distilled spirit made from the ti plant root, which is native to Hawaii. The name 'Okolehao' translates to "iron bottom," referring to the traditional method of distillation using iron pots.
The production of Okolehao dates back to 1790, when Hawaiians first started fermenting the ti plant root to create a potent alcoholic beverage. Over time, they began experimenting with different ingredients, adding sugar cane, pineapple, and even rice brought by Japanese and Chinese immigrants. Okolehao was widely consumed in Hawaii, and each batch was unique, depending on the distiller's formula and technique.
Okolehao is typically consumed unaged, and its flavour is described as earthy, vegetal, with hints of banana or pineapple and other indeterminate tropical notes. The alcohol content of traditional Okolehao ranged from 85 to 100 proof, with some full-strength versions reaching up to 130 proof. The finished product was determined by the distiller's preference for the right "hit" or "punch."
During World War II, Hawaiians produced Okolehao in various formulations, and it became popular among US military personnel stationed at the bases in Hawaii. However, after the war, the production of Okolehao gradually declined as commercially produced rum and vodka became readily available and were considered better-tasting than the crudely produced Okolehao.
Today, there are still some distilleries in Hawaii, such as Island Distillers in Honolulu, that recreate the traditional Okolehao with a 50% alcohol content. Okolehao is also used as a main ingredient in some cocktails, such as the Chief's Calabash and the Lei Day cocktail, adding a unique Hawaiian twist to the drinks.
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Hawaiian cocktails with li hing mui (dried Chinese plum)
Li hing mui, also known as huamei in mainland China, is a salty dried Chinese plum with a strong, distinctive flavour. It was introduced to Hawaii in the late 19th century by Chinese labourers working in the plantations and has since become a beloved part of Hawaiian culture. The name "li hing mui" means "travelling plum" in Cantonese.
Li hing mui powder is made by grinding dried plums into a fine powder and is often mixed with sugar, licorice, red food colouring, and salt to create a unique blend of sweet, salty, and tangy flavours. The powder is extremely versatile and can be used in countless ways, including as a seasoning for fruits, candies, and meats, as well as a rim for cocktail glasses.
Li Hing Margarita
- Rim a margarita glass with li hing mui powder.
- Prepare your favourite margarita recipe.
- Garnish with a slice of lime and enjoy!
Li Hing Martini
- Rim a martini glass with li hing mui powder.
- Prepare your favourite martini recipe.
- For an adventurous twist, replace the olive with a whole or pitted li hing mui plum.
Piña Colada with a Twist
- Rim a hurricane glass with li hing mui powder.
- Prepare your favourite piña colada recipe.
- Garnish with a cherry and a pineapple wedge.
Li Hing Mocktail
- Rim a glass with li hing mui powder.
- Fill the glass with ice and add your favourite mocktail ingredients.
- Top it off with a splash of lemon-lime soda or club soda for some fizz.
In addition to cocktails, li hing mui powder can be used to enhance the flavour of tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, and strawberries. It can also be added to shave ice, popcorn, and even Hawaiian malasadas (donuts). Its versatility and unique flavour profile make it a popular ingredient in Hawaiian cuisine and a must-try for anyone exploring the islands' diverse food culture.
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Frequently asked questions
A fifth is a slang term for a 750ml bottle of alcoholic spirits, usually referring to whiskey or vodka. This is because it is one-fifth of a gallon, which is roughly 25.4 ounces or 1.5 pints.
There is no evidence of a unique Hawaiian term for a fifth of alcohol. However, Hawaiians do have a unique spirit called ʻōkolehao, which is made from blending extracts of ti plant root, sugar syrup, rum, neutral spirits, bourbon, and other artificial and natural flavorings.
Some popular Hawaiian cocktails include the Mai Tai, Lava Flow, Chi Chi, Blue Hawaii (or Blue Hawaiian), and the Lei Day. Many cocktails feature li hing mui (dried Chinese plum) and lilikoi (passion fruit).
