Cuba Libre Cocktail Recipe
Taste
Smooth, Citrusy & Effervescent
Skill Level
Easy
Prep Time
5 Minutes
The Cuba Libre is a timeless classic that embodies the spirit of easygoing sophistication. Translating to “Free Cuba,” this iconic cocktail dates back to the early 1900s and remains a favourite for its simplicity and balance. Combining The Pugilist Spiced Rum with the crisp zest of lime and the familiar sweetness of cola, it’s a drink that’s both comforting and refreshing.
Perfect for relaxed evenings, parties, or sunny afternoons, the Cuba Libre is proof that sometimes the simplest combinations are the most satisfying.
Ingredients
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50ml The Pugilist Spiced Rum
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25ml fresh lime juice
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Cola (to top)
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Ice cubes
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Garnish: lime wedge or slice
Tools You’ll Need
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A highball glass
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A measuring jigger
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A bar spoon or stirrer
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Ice scoop or tongs
How to Make the Perfect Cuba Libre
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Fill your glass with ice – Start with a tall highball glass filled with plenty of ice cubes.
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Add the rum – Pour in 50ml of The Pugilist Spiced Rum as your base.
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Add the lime juice – Squeeze or measure out 25ml of fresh lime juice and pour it in.
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Top with cola – Fill the glass with cola, letting the fizz mix naturally through the rum and lime.
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Stir gently – Give it a brief stir to combine the flavours without losing too much carbonation.
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Garnish and serve – Finish with a fresh lime wedge or slice, and enjoy this smooth, refreshing classic.
Our Tips for Making the Perfect Cuba Libre at Home
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Always use fresh lime juice. Bottled versions can dull the flavour, fresh makes all the difference.
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Use a good-quality cola. The balance of sweetness and spice depends heavily on your mixer.
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Try a squeeze of extra lime for more zest and brightness.
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Chill your rum and cola before mixing for the ultimate crisp finish.
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Switch up your rum. Darker rums bring richer caramel notes, while spiced rum adds warmth and depth.
Similar Drinks
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Mojito – A bright, refreshing rum cocktail with lime, mint and soda.
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Honey Bee – A zesty, citrus-forward rum cooler with Sicilian lemonade.
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Piña Colada – A creamy, indulgent rum classic with coconut and pineapple.
From Havana’s Bars to Global Fame
The Cuba Libre first appeared in Havana around the turn of the 20th century, a time when American cola had just made its way to Cuba. Legend has it that U.S. soldiers mixed their local rum with cola and lime to toast to Cuba’s independence, shouting “¡Por Cuba Libre!” (“For a free Cuba!”).
What began as a simple celebration drink quickly became a global staple. Its balance of sweetness, spice and citrus has stood the test of time, remaining one of the world’s most popular rum cocktails for over a century.
With The Pugilist Spiced Rum, the drink takes on a richer, more aromatic edge, perfectly suited to modern tastes while staying true to its carefree Caribbean roots.
