Cuba Libre (Cuban Rum and Coke Drink)

The Cuba Libre is a fresh long drink with a persistent flavor typical of Cuban tradition, an official IBA cocktail, among the most famous and replicated in the world, prepared with only white rum, cola and lime.

Making it at home is very simple. Simply fill a highball glass or a tall tumbler with ice cubes, pour in the liqueur, cola, and the juice of 1/4 lime, and then mix everything together with a bar spoon, the long-handled teaspoon used by bartenders. The result will be a simple and aromatic alcoholic drink, ideal for enjoying as an aperitif or after-dinner drink with friends.

Cuba Libre History

The origins of the cocktail are rather uncertain. The most widely accepted theory is that it was born in Havana between 1900 and 1902, shortly after the end of the Spanish-American War that led to the liberation of Cuba (hence the name). Others, however, attribute the recipe to an American soldier who, in 1898, at the American Bar on Calle Nettuno, after ordering a drink with American cola and Cuban rum, symbolic products of the two countries, loudly toasted the newly achieved independence, "Por Cuba libre."

What's The Best Type of Rum for a Cuba Libre?

The best rum for a Cuba Libre is a light or gold Cuban-style rum, which keeps the drink balanced, crisp, and refreshing. Traditionally, the cocktail is made with light rum (also called white rum), such as Bacardí Superior, because it has a clean, slightly sweet profile that blends seamlessly with cola and lime without overpowering them.

That said, a gold (amber) rum can also work well if you prefer a slightly richer flavor, adding subtle notes of vanilla or caramel while still keeping the drink approachable. Heavier dark or aged rums are generally less traditional for a Cuba Libre, as their deeper, more complex flavors can dominate the cola rather than complement it.

Cuba Libre's Alcohol Content

The alcohol content of the Cuba Libre varies between 20 and 30° but, depending on personal taste, the quantity of rum can be slightly increased or decreased.

Cuba Libre Variations

Those who prefer can add a couple of teaspoons of brown sugar, or try one of the many variations of the cocktail, such as the Cubotto, made with chinotto instead of cola; the Santo Libre, made with rum, soda, and lemon juice instead of lime juice; or, more simply, the Rum and Cola, which has a stronger flavor and is made without citrus fruit.

How to Make Cuba Libre

Step 1

Step 1

Fill the glass with ice cubes.

Fill the glass with ice cubes.

Step 2

Step 2

Add the white rum.

Add the white rum.

Step 3

Step 3

Pour the cola.

Pour the cola.

Step 4

Step 4

Squeeze the lime juice.

Squeeze the lime juice.

Step 5

Step 5

Mix everything well with a bar spoon and garnish the cocktail with a slice of lime.

Mix everything well with a bar spoon and garnish the cocktail with a slice of lime.

Step 6

Step 6

The Cuba Libre is ready to be enjoyed!

The Cuba Libre is ready to be enjoyed!