IN THE FRENCH ANTILLES, and particularly Martinique, there’s a term called “decollage.”

Literally, it means a “take-off,” as in an airplane. But the term is really used for the first drink of the day — the drink (usually a Ti’ Punch), that gets you where you need to go.

While we’re big fans of the Ti’ Punch (don’t miss our recent Rum Journal on the Haitian version of the drink), Trinidad-based 10 Cane Rum has a drink we think fits the spirit of the decollage quite well.

And 10 Cane is even more appropriate due to the fact that, like the rhums of Martinique, it is made from sugar cane juice (in this case, the fresh, Trinidadian variety), not molasses.

And their special pick-me-up is called the Canitas, and it adds exactly the right ingredient for a take-off: espresso.

So we offer the recipe for the Canitas, a rum drink that’s sure to get the day started right.

Ingredients:

2 OZ. 10 Cane Rum
1 Shot of Espresso
Optional: Sugar
Fresh Whipped Cream

Directions:

In a small shot or juice glass add 10 Cane and espresso.
Add sugar, if using.
Garnish with fresh whipped cream, if desired.

You’re now cleared for take-off. — CJ