Perched by the water’s edge, Rumi on Louth is more than just a restaurant – it’s a sensory journey into the flavours, textures and spirit of Rumi Island. With its refined yet relaxed setting, warm island hospitality and menus inspired by the landscape around it, Rumi on Louth has become a destination for diners seeking something that feels both elevated and deeply grounded in place.
That philosophy extends to the bar, where Mixologist Ella Penfold is crafting cocktails that speak the language of the island itself. This week, we shine a light on one of her signature creations: the Wattletini.
A Cocktail with an Island Soul
At first glance, the Wattletini may remind you of a classic Espresso Martini – but this is no ordinary rendition. Ella has given the modern favourite an island twist, weaving in a star ingredient that ties it to Rumi Island’s natural heritage.
The cocktail combines smooth vodka and rich coffee with house-roasted wattleseed, a native botanical that infuses the drink with a warm, nutty depth. It’s a drink that’s both familiar and unexpected, elegant yet earthy – a sip that feels like the island distilled into a glass.
Why We Recommend It
In Ella’s words:
"It’s a rich, smooth twist on the classic Espresso Martini, with a distinctly Rumi Island touch. The house-roasted wattleseed adds a warm, nutty depth that perfectly complements the coffee and vodka.”
This is the kind of cocktail that invites conversation and contemplation. It’s sophisticated enough for a romantic evening, yet comforting enough to enjoy as a celebratory nightcap. With its balance of intensity and smoothness, it lingers long after the last sip.
A Fun Fact
The magic of the Wattletini lies in its connection to place. The wattleseed is foraged and harvested right here on Rumi Island, one of the core botanicals the team works with. Once roasted to unlock its beautiful nutty aroma, the wattleseed is infused directly into vodka, creating a base spirit that couldn’t exist anywhere else.
As Ella explains, this ingredient is the heart of the drink:
"The Wattletini pays homage to the wattleseed and its inspiration from the classic Espresso Martini – a delicious blend of foraged island botanicals and a beloved modern classic.”
It’s also part of Rumi’s Native Cocktail Range, a collection designed to showcase flavours that can be foraged from the island itself. With each sip, guests are quite literally tasting the landscape, making the Wattletini a drink that embodies the spirit of Rumi on Louth.
The Story Behind the Name
The name ‘Wattletini’ celebrates both the inspiration and the signature native botanical that sets it apart. Just as the wattleseed grows wild across the island, this cocktail has flourished into a symbol of Rumi’s approach: a fusion of modern mixology and nature’s pantry.
So, the next time you find yourself at Rumi on Louth, order the Wattletini. Under Ella Penfold’s expert hand, you’ll discover a cocktail that’s smooth, soulful and deeply tied to the island – a true taste of Rumi.
