← Back to Recipes
Tommy "Two Coolers" Sullivan bartender portrait

Masshole Fratboy · Tommy "Two Coolers" Sullivan

Cuba Libre

A citrusy and refreshing highball built around rum, with the classic proportions and service that make the Cuba Libre endure.

“Cuba Libre, kid. Big flavor, zero committee meetings, and we're back before the commercial ends.”
Cuba Libre cocktail served in a highball glass with lime wedge

WHY THIS DRINK WORKS

The Cuba Libre works because rum, lime juice, cola meet in deliberate proportion. Keep the method built, use fresh ice, and give the final garnish enough attention to finish the aroma without distracting from the drink.

Makes1 cocktail
Time3 minutes
GlassHighball glass
FinishLime wedge

Ingredients

  • 2 oz rum
  • 1/2 oz lime juice
  • To top cola

Make it

  1. Build rum and lime in a highball glass over ice.
  2. Top with cola.
  3. Stir gently.
  4. Garnish with lime.

Behind the bar

  • Chill the serving glass while you prepare the drink.
  • Taste balance depends on fresh citrus and accurate measurements.