Cuba Libre

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass completely with ice cubes.

2. Pour the white rum over the ice.

3. Add the fresh lime juice.

4. Top up the glass with Coca-Cola.

5. Gently stir the mixture to combine the ingredients without losing carbonation.

6. Garnish with a fresh lime wedge squeezed lightly over the drink before dropping it in, or place it on the rim.

Trivia

• What is the difference between a Rum and Coke and a Cuba Libre?

  The key difference lies in the lime juice. A Rum and Coke is simply rum and cola mixed together, often served without garnish. A Cuba Libre specifically requires the addition of fresh lime juice, which adds a crucial layer of tartness and complexity, balancing the sweetness of the cola and enhancing the rum's flavour. The lime wedge garnish is also characteristic of the Cuba Libre.

• What type of rum is best for a Cuba Libre?

  Traditionally, a light or white Cuban rum is used for a Cuba Libre, reflecting its origins. Brands like Bacardi (originally Cuban, now produced elsewhere) are common choices. However, any good quality light or gold rum works well. The key is to choose a rum with a relatively clean profile that won't overpower the simple combination of cola and lime.

• Where did the Cuba Libre cocktail originate?

  The Cuba Libre originated in Havana, Cuba, around 1900-1902. Its creation is linked to the end of the Spanish-American War and the subsequent American presence in Cuba. The story goes that American soldiers mixed local Cuban rum with the newly introduced Coca-Cola and toasted to a "Free Cuba" – hence the name "Cuba Libre."

• Is a Cuba Libre a strong cocktail?

  The strength of a Cuba Libre depends on the ratio of rum to cola. Typically made with a standard 1.5 to 2 ounces (4.5-6 cl) of rum and topped with cola, it's generally considered a moderately strong drink, similar in alcohol content to other highballs like a Gin and Tonic or a Scotch and Soda. You can easily adjust the strength by altering the amount of rum.

• How do you make the perfect Cuba Libre?

  To make the perfect Cuba Libre, always use fresh lime juice, not bottled. Fill your highball glass generously with ice to keep the drink well-chilled and minimize dilution. Use a good quality light or gold rum and your preferred cola (classic Coca-Cola is traditional). Stir gently just to combine, preserving the fizz. Don't forget the lime wedge garnish, squeezed slightly over the drink.

• Can you use dark rum in a Cuba Libre?

  While the classic Cuba Libre uses light rum, you can certainly experiment with dark or spiced rum. Using dark rum will create a richer, more complex flavour profile with deeper notes of molasses and oak, often called a 'Cubata'. Spiced rum will add warm spice notes like vanilla and cinnamon. It deviates from the original but can be a delicious variation.