Cuba Libre
Cuba Libre is a simple, refreshing highball with the caramel depth of dark rum, the sparkle and sweetness of cola, and a sharp lift of fresh lime. Served over plenty of ice, it is easy to make, balanced, and instantly recognizable.
Nutrition · per serving
Ingredients
5 itemsFor the drink
Tips
- •Use very cold cola and fresh lime juice; these two details make a classic Cuba Libre taste noticeably brighter.
- •If you prefer a drier drink, reduce the cola to 200 ml total.
- •A traditional serving is built directly in the glass rather than shaken.
- •For best balance, use a medium-bodied dark rum rather than a heavily spiced one.
Steps
- 1
Cut the lime into 2 wedges for garnish and squeeze the remaining lime to measure 30 ml fresh juice. Chill 2 tall glasses if possible for the crispest drink.
30 ml fresh lime juice1 whole lime - 2
Fill each glass about three-quarters full with ice cubes. Using plenty of ice keeps the drink cold without diluting too quickly.
300 g ice cubes - 3
Divide the dark rum and fresh lime juice evenly between the 2 glasses. Give each glass a brief stir to combine the base.
100 ml dark rum30 ml fresh lime juice - 4
Top each glass with the chilled cola, pouring gently to preserve carbonation. Stir once or twice only, just enough to blend.
240 ml cola, well chilled - 5
Garnish each glass with a lime wedge and serve immediately.
1 whole lime
Origin & History
The Cuba Libre was born in Cuba around the turn of the 20th century, likely after the Spanish-American War, when rum, Coca-Cola, and lime became a popular combination. Its name means 'Free Cuba,' reflecting the political mood of the era, and it went on to become one of the world's classic highball drinks.
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