The Hotel Nacional Special is a cocktail that embodies the vibrant spirit of tropical locales, particularly evoking the charm of Havana, Cuba, where it was first crafted. This drink is a delightful blend of flavors that transports you to sun-soaked beaches with its refreshing and fruity profile. The cocktail is a harmonious mix of light gold rum, apricot brandy, pineapple juice, and freshly squeezed lime juice, creating a balance that is both sweet and tangy, with a hint of tropical flair.

At the heart of the Hotel Nacional Special is the light gold rum, which serves as the base spirit. This rum, aged between one to three years, is derived from molasses and offers a smooth, slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. The addition of De Kuyper Apricot Brandy liqueur adds a layer of complexity, infusing the drink with a rich apricot essence that enhances its fruity character. The pineapple juice brings a burst of tropical sweetness, while the freshly squeezed lime juice introduces a zesty acidity that cuts through the sweetness, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.

The recipe also calls for a rich sugar syrup, made with a two-to-one ratio of sugar to water, which adds a velvety sweetness to the mix. For those looking to elevate the cocktail further, the optional Rhum Clément Blanc can be included, adding a touch of agricole rum's grassy notes, which can deepen the drink's complexity. Additionally, the inclusion of Daiquiri Bitters and a saline solution can enhance the overall flavor, providing a subtle depth that makes each sip intriguing.

The preparation of the Hotel Nacional Special is as elegant as its taste. The cocktail is shaken with ice to chill and dilute the ingredients, then fine strained into a pre-chilled coupe glass, ensuring a smooth texture without any ice shards. The final touch is a garnish of either a pineapple or lime wedge, which not only adds visual appeal but also hints at the cocktail's tropical roots.

With an alcohol content of 16.37% by volume, the Hotel Nacional Special is a potent yet approachable drink, offering about 1.9 standard drinks per serving. This makes it a perfect choice for a summer gathering or a festive occasion where you want to impress your guests with something unique and flavorful. At approximately 190 calories, it’s a relatively light option compared to many other cocktails, allowing you to enjoy the evening without too much guilt.

The Hotel Nacional Special is not just a drink; it’s a celebration of flavors that encapsulates the essence of tropical living. It invites you to take a moment, close your eyes, and imagine the warm sun on your skin, the sound of waves lapping at the shore, and the laughter of friends around you. Whether you’re sipping it on a beach or in the comfort of your home, this cocktail is sure to bring a taste of paradise to your glass. So, shake up a batch, garnish it with a slice of fruit, and let the Hotel Nacional Special whisk you away to a tropical escape.