The Cuba Libre cocktail originated in Havana, Cuba, around the early 1900s during the aftermath of the Spanish-American War. It was created when American soldiers stationed in Cuba mixed Coca-Cola, a newly imported American product, with local Cuban rum and a squeeze of lime. The name “Cuba Libre,” meaning “Free Cuba,” was a patriotic toast celebrating Cuba’s independence from Spanish rule. The drink quickly gained popularity as a symbol of unity between Cuban and American cultures.
Flavor:
The Cuba Libre cocktail has a refreshing, balanced flavor with the sweet caramel notes of cola blending smoothly with the rich, molasses-like depth of rum. A squeeze of lime adds a zesty citrus brightness that cuts through the sweetness and enhances the drink’s crisp finish.
IBA Category:
Contemporary Classics
Ingredients:
- 2 oz white rum
- 4 oz Coca-Cola
- ½ lime (plus a lime wedge for garnish)
- Ice cubes
Recipe:
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
- Squeeze the juice of half a lime over the ice, then drop the spent lime shell into the glass.
- Pour in the white rum.
- Top up with Coca-Cola and gently stir.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.
