Imagine lounging on a sun-kissed Cuban beach, a delectably cooling Cuban cocktail in hand, with the backdrop of glistening turquoise waters. This isn’t just daydreaming; it’s a tangible paradise for many who venture to Cuba for a sun-drenched getaway.
Cuban bartenders are lauded for crafting some of the planet’s most famous cocktails with the freshest ingredients. Rewind to the Prohibition era in the United States; Americans would escape to the Caribbean island to bask in the sun and enjoy a legal tipple. That tradition of exceptional bartending continues in Cuba to this day.
Each sip in Cuba isn’t just about tasting a drink; it’s about experiencing a story, a culture, as crafted by its people. And with so many to choose from—Canchánchara, Mojito, Cuba Libre, you name it!—there’s surely something for everyone.
So why not embark on this flavorful journey on your next trip to Cuba?
Daiquiri
A global cocktail superstar, the daiquiri originated in Eastern Cuba. It’s a simple yet sublime mix of white rum, lemon juice, sugar, and ice. Now, it’s evolved with regional twists like the famous Miami Vice – a tantalizing daiquiri and piña colada fusion.
The frozen daiquiri, especially popular in Cuba, was first whipped up by bartenders at Havana’s iconic Floridita bar, a favorite haunt of Ernest Hemingway. In fact, there’s even a bronze statue of Hemingway at his usual spot in the bar.
Mojito
Just a stone’s throw from Floridita is La Bodeguita del Medio, another legendary bar. Hemingway supposedly helped create their version of the mojito, which highlights muddled mint leaves. Whether fact or fiction, it’s a story they’re sticking to!
The mojito’s a blend of white rum, ice, mint, and sugar, with roots tracing back to an older concoction by African slaves in sugarcane fields. Each bartender adds their personal flair, but the original Cuban mojito is a must-try.
What is Cuba’s signature drink? A Cuba Libre!
Needless to say that the Cuba Libre is a staple in these parts, making it one of the most famous cocktail options on any bar menu. Its name translates to “Free Cuba”, symbolizing the island’s freedom after the Spanish-American War.
The base of the drink is just two simple ingredients: a high-quality Cuban rum, which is then topped with coca-cola for a sweet, fizzy twist. However, in Cuba, Coca-Cola comes from Mexico, making it a bit sweeter; for a truly Cuban experience on your next trip to Cuba, mix local tuKola with some Havana Club rum.
More than just a regular rum and coke, the authentic Cuba Libre is crafted with muddled lime juice for a fresh twist. This crucial component not only balances the sweetness of the coca-cola but also adds a zingy freshness that makes the drink stand out.
El Presidente
This one holds a pivotal role in the Cuban cocktail scene. Originating from the early 20th century, El Presidente was created to honor the former Cuban president Mario García Menocal. It’s also sometimes referred to as the ‘Cuban Manhattan’, highlighting its classic status amongst cocktail enthusiasts.
It encapsulates the sophistication of the era, with an intriguing blend of different flavors. Its recipe consists of white rum, orange curaçao, dry vermouth, and a hint of grenadine. The cocktail is well-stirred to ensure the perfect blend of its ingredients and is typically served in a chilled coupe glass.
Canchanchara
Known as the oldest cocktail on this list, the Canchanchara has a rich history dating back to the Ten Years War in the late 19th century. Legend says it originated in the UNESCO-listed colonial city of Trinidad. Its creation is attributed to the Cuban guerrillas, known as mambises, who were fighting for independence from Spain. The cocktail is named after the clay cup, also called a canchanchara, in which it was traditionally served.
The mix is quite simple. Aguardiente (or clear Cuban rum as a substitute), honey, and juice from limón criollo, a type of lime also known as key lime juice. It’s often served with a garnish of lime wedge and fresh sugarcane, although these are optional.
The cocktail may be adjusted to your preferences. For example, the lime-honey ratio can be tweaked to make the drink more sweet or sour. Depending on how friendly you are with the bartender, it may be a tad stronger than normal, too.
Coconut Rum Punch
Cuban rum punch is a generous and festive drink, although not always a famous cocktail. It’s made with a careful blend of Havana Club white rum and freshly squeezed citrus, with hints of pineapple and grenadine.
Havana bartenders add their signature flavour by adding homemade guava syrup and a few drops of coconut. The authentic way to serve it? In a large clay bowl. The drink is best enjoyed with ice cubes and slices of fresh fruit, shared with friends on warm Havana evenings.
