Cuba Libre
Rum and cola made properly. Fresh lime turns a mixer drink into a real cocktail.
Built in glass · Highball · Easy · about 2 minutes · about 10% ABV
Ingredients
- 50 ml White rum
- 10 ml Fresh lime juice
- 120 ml Cola
- Lime wedge (garnish)
Method
- Ice the glass
- Pour 50 ml white rum into the glass
- Add 10 ml fresh lime juice
- Top with 120 ml cola
- Stir once
- Garnish
Tip
Squeeze the lime and drop the shell in the glass for extra aroma.
About the Cuba Libre
The Cuba Libre ("Free Cuba") is said to have been created in Havana around 1900, after the Spanish–American War, when Coca-Cola arrived on the island. Its toast echoed the Cuban independence movement.
The highball family. A highball is a spirit topped with a larger amount of mixer and served tall over ice. The style spread in the 1890s, when Scotch and soda became fashionable, and where the name came from is still debated. Highballs are the easiest drinks to make well: a cold glass, plenty of ice and a fresh mixer.
Cuba Libre FAQ
What's in a Cuba Libre?
50 ml white rum, 10 ml fresh lime juice, 120 ml cola, garnished with lime wedge.
How strong is a Cuba Libre?
About 10% ABV once mixed with ice, which is 1.5 Australian standard drinks per serve. That is about as strong as a glass of wine or lighter.
Should I shake or stir a Cuba Libre?
Neither. Build it straight in the glass over ice, then give it one gentle stir.
What glass do you serve a Cuba Libre in?
A highball, about 350 ml. Serve it over ice. No highball? Use any tall, straight-sided glass.
