Gully Wash – A Bahamian Specialty

Transport yourself to the Bahamas with a chilled glass of Gully Wash, aka Sky Juice. This smooth island cocktail blends coconut water, gin, and condensed milk into a drink that’s sweet, refreshing, and lowkey dangerous (in a “you’ll want three” kinda way). Let’s shake up this Bahamian classic—plus I’ll share some variations and party tips.

What is gully wash

Gully Wash, also known as Sky Juice, is a beloved Bahamian cocktail that’s creamy, cool, and surprisingly refreshing, especially given how strong it is. I got it in a coconut shell, but i’ve seen it in milk jugs or just served in a chilled glass.

It’s a popular drink for beach days, backyard limes, and anytime you feel like sipping something island-made and effortlessly smooth. Don’t let its sweetness fool you, this one sneaks up on you in the best way.

How to make gully wash

Ingredients needed

The Core:

• Coconut water – fresh if you have it! (or plain bottled, unflavored)
• Gin – London dry gin is traditional, but use what you’ve got
• Condensed milk – sweet, creamy, and balances the gin like magic

The Enhancer:

• A couple dashes of Angostura bitters – adds subtle depth (optional but encouraged)

Optional Garnish:

• Cinnamon stick for that island cocktail flair
• Grated nutmeg
• A sprinkle of cinnamon

Instructions

1. In a large jug or pitcher, add the coconut water, gin, and condensed milk.
2. Stir (or shake!) until smooth and fully combined.
3. Add a couple dashes of bitters and give it a final swirl.
4. Chill in the fridge for 1–2 hours or serve immediately over ice.
5. Garnish with nutmeg or a cinnamon stick if you’re feelin’ fancy.

Renz Tip: Letting it chill a bit helps mellow the flavors into one smooth, dangerously sippable drink.

Make ahead tips

Absolutely! Mix everything ahead of time and store in an airtight bottle or jug in the fridge.
It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours. You can prep it:

• Up to 1 week if stored properly and kept cold
• Up to 1 day in advance for best flavor

Customizations & Variations

• Alcohol-free? Skip the gin and sub in coconut milk or evaporated milk for a mocktail version
• No gin? Use white rum (for a milder sip) or dark rum (for a rich, boozier version)
• Want it extra tropical? Sub some gin for coconut rum or add ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• Frozen version: Blend it with ice and a pinch of cinnamon for a frosty twist

What to Serve with Gully Wash

This cocktail needs a good snack buddy. Try:

• Jerk fried chicken wings or pulled jerk chicken sandwiches
• Geera chicken neck or saltfish fritters
• Fruit skewers or light tropical cutters
• Oxtail mac and cheese for the bold & brave

Frequently Asked Questions

More drinks

• Caribbean punch (Non alcoholic)
• Fruit Punch (Non alcoholic)
• Caribbean Rum Punch
• Sorrel Rum Punch

Final Thoughts

This drink is a low-key celebration in a glass. Whether you’re planning a girls’ night, island-themed hang, or just miss the beach—this is the drink to make.

Don’t forget to tag me @ThisBagoGirl when you make it, I wanna see your version, coconut shell or no shell.

Recipe