Cocktails have long been a symbol of celebration and indulgence, they bring people together, spark conversations, and allow individuals to explore a world of unique flavours, ingredients, and geographies.
At the heart of many classic and innovative cocktails lies rum, hailing from the Caribbean, the spirit’s rich history is intertwined with the culture and geography of the region, particularly in Cuba. Cuban rum, the famous base for drinks such as the iconic Mojito, has been an integral part of the country’s identity and heritage since the 16th century.
What makes rum a superb cocktail base is its adaptability to various flavour profiles. Light, white rums offer a subtle sweetness that complements tropical fruits and citrus ingredients, while darker, aged rums boast rich, nuanced flavours like caramel, vanilla, and spice. This versatility allows mixologists and enthusiasts alike to craft a diverse array of cocktails, from refreshing and fruity concoctions to bold, spirit-forward sips. As summer arrives and we set our sights on holiday season, there’s no better way to cool off than with a refreshing, rum-based cocktail in hand.
To avoid a rum based cocktail faux-pas, or dillydallying over the never-ending cocktail list, take a tip from us and just make beeline for one of the classics, or bring memories home with you and grab the ingredients to mix it up yourself.
Classic Mojito
The name “Mojito” is said to be derived from the Spanish word “mojo,” which means “spell” or “charm” and was original considered a medical drink dating back centuries. Now a favourite among summer cocktail enthusiasts, the Cuban-born Mojito cocktail is a refreshing mix of white rum, fresh lime juice, mint leaves, and a splash of club soda.
Muddled mint adds a bright, herbaceous note, while the citrusy lime juice and bubbly soda create a crisp, invigorating finish. If you learn anything on your Cuban getaway, make sure it’s how to make a mojito!
Ingredients
2 teaspoons white sugar
25ml fresh lime juice
2 sprigs of mint
50ml Havana Club Añejo 3 Años
3 ice cubes
Piña Colada
In 1954, a bartender named Ramón “Monchito” Marrero at the Caribe Hilton in San Juan, Puerto Rico accidently invented what has become one of the most famous cocktails and a firm favourite for anyone keen to draw some attention. Blending sweet pineapple juice, creamy coconut cream, and smooth white rum, the Piña Colada transports you to a tropical paradise with every sip.
Ingredients
60ml Havana Club Añejo 3 Años
100ml fresh pineapple juice
30ml coconut milk
5ml lime juice (optional)
1 cup crushed ice
Strawberry Mojito
The Strawberry Mojito cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic Mojito. Combining the refreshing flavours of fresh strawberries, mint, lime, and white rum, this cocktail is a quintessential summer sipper. Muddle strawberries with mint and lime before adding rum and club soda for a vibrant, fruity concoction that’s sure to please.
Ingredients
2 teaspoons white sugar
25ml fresh lime juice
2 sprigs of mint
4 fresh strawberries
50ml Havana Club Añejo 3 Años
3 ice cubes
Top up with sparkling water
El Presidente
A timeless Cuban classic, El Presidente is a sophisticated blend of white rum, dry vermouth, orange curaçao, and grenadine. Created in the early 20th century by Eddie Woelke, an American bartender working at the Jockey Club in Havana, Cuba. Woelke named the drink in honour of Cuban president Mario García Menocal, who ruled from 1913 to 1921, and the name and cocktail stuck. The combination of these ingredients creates a refined, well-balanced cocktail that’s perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening. Garnish with an orange twist for a touch of elegance.
Ingredients
40ml Havana Club Añejo 7 Años
20ml Lillet Blanc
10ml triple sec
5ml Grenadine
1 twist orange peel
Classic Daiquiri
The Classic Daiquiri, created by another American and this time from an unlikely source, engineer Jennings Cox, is a timeless cocktail showcasing the smooth flavors of white rum, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup. This minimalist combination creates a balanced and refreshing drink, perfect for sipping on a hot summer afternoon.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon white sugar or 20ml sugar syrup
25ml fresh lime juice
50ml Havana Club Añejo 3 Años
3 ice cubes
1 cocktail shaker or large jar with a lid
Whether you prefer a creamy, fruity, or zesty libation, these top five rum-based cocktails are guaranteed to get your through the summer in style – Salud!
