Gully Wash (Bahamian Sky Juice Cocktail)

This Bahamian Gully Wash, also known as Sky Juice, is a creamy cocktail made with coconut water, gin, and sweetened condensed milk. It’s refreshing, easy to make, and comes with a little story about how I first discovered it.

I was first introduced to Gully Wash while on vacation in the Bahamas during college. One of the bartenders heard my accent and said, “Wait, you’re not a tourist?” I told him I was from Tobago, and just like that, apparently we were cousins. 

He decided I needed something a little more local to drink and poured me a Gully Wash straight from a milk carton into a plastic cup. Nothing fancy, but clearly it made an impression because here we are.

Gully Wash isn’t a Trinidad and Tobago drink. It’s Bahamian, and that trip was my introduction to this simple combination of coconut water, gin, and sweetened condensed milk

What is gully wash

Gully Wash, also known as Sky Juice, is a Bahamian cocktail traditionally made with coconut water, gin, and sweetened condensed milk. The condensed milk adds sweetness and creaminess, while the coconut water keeps the drink refreshing.

It can be served chilled or poured over ice. I’ve even had it served in a coconut shell, although a regular glass works just fine at home.

Ingredients for gully wash

You only need a few ingredients to make this simple Bahamian cocktail:

• Coconut water: Use fresh coconut water if you have it, or plain, unflavored bottled coconut water.
• Gin: Gives Gully Wash its signature boozy kick.
• Sweetened condensed milk: Adds the sweetness and creamy texture that balances the gin.
• Angostura bitters: I add a couple of dashes for a little extra depth, but this is optional.

How to make gully wash

1. Mix the drink. Add the coconut water, gin, sweetened condensed milk, and Angostura bitters, if using, to a pitcher or cocktail shaker. Mix well until the condensed milk is fully incorporated.
2. Serve. Pour over ice and serve immediately. You can also chill the mixture first, then pour it over ice when you’re ready to serve

Adjusting your Gully Wash

The type of gin you use can change how the drink tastes, so don’t be afraid to adjust the sweetened condensed milk to suit it. I’ve made Gully Wash with a more floral gin made here in Florida and found I needed less sweetness than when I make it with Tanqueray.

Start with the amount in the recipe, taste, and add a little more condensed milk if needed. Just keep in mind that adding more will make the drink both sweeter and creamier.

Make ahead and storage

You can make Gully Wash ahead of time and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. For the best flavor, I recommend making it no more than a day ahead.

Give it a good stir or shake before serving, since the mixture may separate slightly as it sits. Keep it refrigerated and pour it over ice just before serving.

What to serve with Gully Wash

Gully Wash is sweet and creamy, so I like it with savory or spicy foods that give you a little contrast. Try it with jerk chicken wings, saltfish accra, or geera chicken neck for something you can snack on alongside your drink.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Caribbean drinks to try

If you’re looking for another island-inspired drink, try my Caribbean rum punch or sorrel rum punch for another cocktail option. For something without alcohol, check out my Caribbean punch or fresh fruit punch.

If you make this Gully Wash, let me know what you think! And if you serve yours in a coconut shell, a fancy glass, or straight out of a plastic cup like my first one, tag me @ThisBagoGirl so I can see it.

Recipe