Zombie (cocktail) The Zombie, (also known as skull-puncher), is a cocktail made of fruit juices, liqueurs, and various rums, so named for its perceived effects upon the drinker[citation needed].
It first appeared in the late 1930s, invented by Donn Beach (formerly Ernest Raymond Beaumont-Gannt) of Hollywood's Don the Beachcomber restaurant.[1] It was popularized soon afterwards at the 1939 New York World's Fair. Legend has it that Donn Beach originally concocted the Zombie to help a hung-over customer get through a business meeting.[2] He returned several days later to complain that he had been turned into a zombie for his entire trip. Its smooth, fruity taste works to conceal its extremely high alcoholic content.
Don the Beachcomber restaurants limit their customers to two Zombies apiece.[3] How to Mix Frank Sinatra's Favorite Cocktail.