Cuba Libre

light rum, Coca-Cola and lime juice

The ubiquitous “rum & Coke”, often improved with a squeeze of lime juice, possibly begun around 1900, but certainly established by 1920, and immensely popular during World War II.

There’s not much to the drink, as it’s merely a highball made with Coca-Cola instead of club soda or seltzer. The fresh lime juice adds a fresh element to a drink that is otherwise comprised of bottled ingredients.

Cuba Libre

Build in a tall glass:

1 squeeze of lime
2 oz light rum

Fill with chilled Coca-Cola.

Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails, p. 209–10; barware icons courtesy of Haus Alpenz