Cuba Libre

Cuba's original highball.

cuba libre cocktail recipe daniel krieger

The Cuban War of Independence began in 1895 and ended with Spain turning the reins over to the United States in 1898. Soon after, a flood of soldiers—and a flood of Coca-Cola to keep them satiated—landed on the island with the ingredients for one of the 20th century’s most ordered (and derided) drinks: the rum and coke. Named somewhat ironically for the rebel cry, “Vive Cuba libre!” the Cuba Libre is a perfect marriage of Cuba and America’s liquid sensibilities: good rum mingled with the unmistakable smack of Coke, lightened with a squeeze of fresh lime. The true Cuba Libre can now legally be consumed in the US, so go find yourself some Havana Club and a sixer of Mexican Coke and rejoice.

Ingredients

Serving: 1

  • 2 ounces rum, white or golden
  • 2 ounces rum, white or golden
  • 1 lime, halved
  • 1 lime, halved
  • Coca-Cola Classic
  • Coca-Cola Classic

Garnish: lime wheel or slice

Directions
  1. In a Collins glass, add rum and squeeze in lime halves.
  2. Add ice and top with Coca-Cola.
  3. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Garnish with a lime wheel or slice.