"Cuba Libre!"

Photo Courtesy of Bacardi 

Cuba libre is one of the most famous and oldest cocktails of all time. Cuba libre (Free Cuba) doesn’t have an exact time of when and how it was created, but most of the stories of its origin suggest that it was a drink of the War of Independence in Cuba between 1898 and 1900. The soldiers would toast and say “Cuba Libre!” the phrase stayed with the drink and till this day every bartender will know what a Cuba libre is even if they don’t speak Spanish. Cuba libre is four simple but essential ingredients Gold Rum, Coke, Lime, and ice.

With our recent trip to Puerto Rico, and our tour of the Bacardi Rum factory I have rediscovered this delightful and refreshing cocktail. I admit the first time I ever had a Cuba libre, it wasn’t my favorite, and maybe it had to do with the fact that my pallet wasn’t developed yet or the drink wasn’t made correctly. One thing is for sure now, when I’m in the mood for a drink, Cuba Libre always comes to mind. While at the Bacardi Rum factory they informed us that a what makes a Cuba Libre a Cuba Libre is the Lime, without the Lime its just a rum and Coke, which might I say, makes all the difference. Naturally I recommend Bacardi Rum, but not just the gold rum, I recommend Bacardi 8, which is aged for eight to ten years. The color is a rich golden brown, the aroma is slightly smoky, and the aging mellows the harsh alcohol into a smooth full body flavor. This Rum is similar to a Whiskey; it is perfect to be enjoyed on the rocks or neat (no ice). Investing in good rum is key to the Cuba libre, so don’t skimp here this is not about how much you can drink and get loose but about enjoying a perfectly crafted drink. 

Cuba Libre

3 oz Bacardi 8 Rum

Top with Coke

½ juice of Lime

Ice

Fill rocks glass with ice pour rum, lime and top with Coke, lightly stir. Garnish with Lime wedge. Enjoy.