The Varia Suit Cooler: A Super Metroid-Inspired Cocktail
When you think of Super Metroid, you might recall its atmospheric score, intricate level design, or the triumph of overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges. It’s a game that defined an era, setting a standard for exploration and storytelling in gaming. Released in 1994 for the Super Nintendo, Super Metroid was not just another sequel—it was a masterpiece that expanded the Metroidvania genre and has remained a favorite for fans like me. Inspired by the game’s iconic Varia Suit, this cocktail aims to evoke the same enduring appeal: bold, vibrant, and worth coming back to again and again.
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Kraken Rum: The Heart of the Varia Suit Cooler
Kraken Spiced Rum, with its deep caramel color and complex profile, anchors this cocktail. Its warm flavors of molasses, vanilla, and cinnamon create a bold base that mirrors the fiery resilience of the Varia Suit itself. The rum’s subtle sweetness balances beautifully against the bitter notes of Aperol and the zesty citrus.
Making Hot Honey Syrup and Charring the Orange Wheel
The hot honey syrup adds an unexpected kick to this drink, blending sweetness and spice in a way that enhances the rum’s richness. To make it, combine equal parts honey and hot water in a saucepan over low heat until fully dissolved. Stir in chili flakes or your favorite hot sauce for a customizable level of heat. Let it cool completely before using.
For the garnish, charring the orange wheel adds a smoky aroma and a caramelized sweetness. Using a kitchen torch, gently flame the surface of the orange slice until it’s lightly browned. Safety Tip: Always perform this step on a heatproof surface, keep flammable items out of the way, and have a fire extinguisher or water nearby, just in case.
Tasting Notes: Bold, Bright, and Balanced
The Varia Suit Cooler greets you with bright citrus on the nose and a hint of smoke from the charred orange wheel. The Kraken Rum delivers a wave of spiced warmth, balanced by the Aperol’s slight bitterness and the tangy citrus juices. The hot honey syrup provides just enough heat to keep things exciting without overwhelming the palate. Topped with a splash of soda, the drink is refreshingly light yet satisfyingly complex. Build this drink in a crystal highball to complete the effect.
When to Enjoy the Varia Suit Cooler
This cocktail is perfect for game nights, whether you’re revisiting Super Metroid or exploring the latest Metroidvania title. Its vibrant flavors also make it a fantastic choice for summer gatherings or anytime you need a drink that can stand up to bold conversation. Like Super Metroid, it’s a creation you’ll find yourself coming back to time and again.
The Varia Suit Cooler
A bold, citrus-forward cocktail with spiced rum and hot honey, inspired by the Varia Suit from Super Metroid.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Kraken Spiced Rum
- 0.5 oz Aperol
- 1 oz fresh orange juice
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- 0.25 oz hot honey syrup
- Splash of soda water
- Orange wheel (garnish)
Instructions
- Combine Kraken, Aperol, orange juice, lime juice, and hot honey syrup in a shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously and strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with a splash of soda water and stir gently.
- Char an orange wheel with a kitchen torch and place on top as a garnish.
