SATURN
The Saturn: The 1967 Space-Age Tiki Drink That Disappeared for Decades
The Saturn was created in 1967 by J. "Popo" Galsini for the Bartender's Guild Annual Competition in California. Galsini won the competition with this unconventional gin-based tiki drink, which was unusual since most tiki cocktails of the era used rum. The drink's name reflected the 1960s space-age obsession, coming during the height of the Apollo program.
Despite winning the competition, the Saturn largely disappeared from bars after the 1960s. The drink was rediscovered in the 2000s when cocktail historians found the original recipe and craft bartenders began recreating it, sparking renewed interest in this forgotten classic.
What makes the Saturn unique is its unusual combination of ingredients. The passionfruit provides tropical tartness and exotic flavor, while orgeat (almond syrup) and falernum (spiced lime syrup) add complexity and sweetness. The gin base makes it lighter and more botanical than rum-based tiki drinks.
The drink is typically served in a coupe glass rather than a tiki mug, distinguishing it from traditional tiki presentation. The Saturn represents a bridge between classic tiki culture and modern craft cocktails, combining tiki's exotic ingredients with a more refined presentation.
RECIPE:
1½ oz gin
¾ oz passionfruit syrup
½ oz lemon juice
¼ oz falernum
¼ oz orgeat
Lemon wheel for garnish
Method:
Add all ingredients to shaker with ice
Shake well until chilled
Strain into chilled coupe glass
Garnish with lemon wheel