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Old Cuban cocktail
Alcoholic Cocktail Cocktail glass Medium

Old Cuban

The Old Cuban is a delightful blend of white rum, fresh mint, and sparkling Prosecco, creating a refreshing and effervescent cocktail. Its vibrant flavors and bubbly texture make it a perfect choice for celebrations or a sophisticated evening.

6 Ingredients
10 min Prep Time
Cocktail glass Glass
Chilled Best Served
refreshing sweet bitter

Ingredients

  • White Rum spirit 60 ml (2 oz)
  • Sugar Syrup syrup 30 ml (1 oz)
  • Lime Juice juice 30 ml (1 oz)
  • Angostura Bitters bitter 2 dashes
  • Prosecco mixer 60 ml (2 oz)
  • Mint garnish handful

How to Make a Old Cuban

Shake a handful of mint, 2oz white rum, 1oz of sugar syrup, 1oz lime juice and 2 dashes angostura bitters with ice. Double strain into a glass and top with 2oz of prosecco.

Bartender Tip

💡

Use fresh mint and gently muddle it to release its oils without tearing the leaves for a more aromatic cocktail.

History of the Old Cuban

The Old Cuban was created by cocktail expert Audrey Saunders at her bar, Pegu Club, in New York City in the early 2000s. It draws inspiration from the classic Mojito while incorporating the elegance of champagne.

About the Old Cuban

The Old Cuban is a cocktail that belongs to the alcoholic family of cocktails. It is traditionally prepared with White Rum, Sugar Syrup, Lime Juice and served in a Cocktail glass.

Best enjoyed during celebrations, at parties, at brunch.

As with all alcoholic beverages, please enjoy this cocktail responsibly.

Did You Know?

The Old Cuban is often considered a modern classic and has gained popularity in cocktail bars worldwide, showcasing the versatility of rum in mixology.

Old Cuban Variations

Spiced Old Cuban This variation incorporates spiced rum instead of white rum, adding warm, aromatic flavors to the cocktail. Swap: White Rum is replaced with Spiced Rum
Berry Old Cuban This version includes muddled berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, for a fruity twist and vibrant color. Swap: Mint is muddled with fresh berries

Pairs Well With

Grilled shrimp tacos Ceviche Chocolate mousse

Quick Facts

~180
Calories
Medium
Strength
10 min
Prep Time

Common Mistake

A common mistake is over-muddling the mint, which can release bitter flavors instead of the desired fresh aroma.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the Old Cuban cocktail?

The Old Cuban cocktail was created by Audrey Saunders at the Pegu Club in New York City in the early 2000s. It is a modern twist on the classic Mojito, combining the refreshing elements of mint and lime with the elegance of sparkling wine.

Can I use a different type of rum in the Old Cuban?

While the traditional recipe calls for white rum, you can experiment with aged rum for a richer flavor profile. However, this will alter the cocktail's character, making it less refreshing and more robust.

What is the best way to garnish an Old Cuban?

A sprig of fresh mint is the ideal garnish for an Old Cuban. Not only does it enhance the cocktail's aroma, but it also adds a touch of elegance to the presentation.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Old Cuban?

Yes, you can create a non-alcoholic version by replacing the white rum with a non-alcoholic rum alternative and omitting the Prosecco. Use soda water to add effervescence and maintain the refreshing qualities.

How can I make the Old Cuban less sweet?

To reduce the sweetness of the Old Cuban, you can decrease the amount of sugar syrup used or substitute it with a sugar alternative. Additionally, using fresh lime juice can help balance the sweetness.

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