Old Cuban: A Sparkling Champagne and Rum Cocktail

Introduction

The Old Cuban is a cocktail that exudes elegance and sophistication while still feeling approachable and fun. A delightful blend of aged rum, fresh mint, lime juice, and champagne, it combines the tropical warmth of rum with the effervescent sparkle of champagne. It’s the perfect drink for moments when you want to toast to life, celebrate special occasions, or simply treat yourself to a cocktail that feels a little extra fancy.

My love affair with the Old Cuban began during a New Year’s Eve celebration. The usual champagne toast felt predictable, so a friend introduced me to this sparkling twist on the mojito. One sip and I was captivated. The Old Cuban offered the best of both worlds: the depth and complexity of a rum-based drink, paired with the light, bubbly joy of champagne. It was festive, refreshing, and undeniably classy.

Since then, the Old Cuban has become a staple in my cocktail repertoire. It’s my go-to for brunches, weddings, anniversaries, and those evenings when I feel like indulging in something special. In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know about this timeless cocktail, from its fascinating history to step-by-step instructions for making it at home. Let’s pop the champagne and dive in!

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The Perfect Drink for Celebrations

The Old Cuban is a cocktail that’s made for celebrations. Whether you’re toasting to a new job, ringing in the New Year, or simply savoring a quiet evening at home, this drink adds a touch of elegance to any occasion. Its combination of bold rum, refreshing lime, and sparkling champagne feels festive and indulgent, making it the ideal choice for life’s special moments.

This cocktail is particularly well-suited for events where you want to elevate the experience without overcomplicating things. It’s easy to make, yet it looks and tastes like something you’d find in an upscale cocktail bar. The Old Cuban is also incredibly versatile. Swap out the champagne for prosecco or cava, adjust the sweetness to your liking, or experiment with different rums to create your own signature version.

And don’t think the Old Cuban is limited to formal occasions. Its refreshing citrus and mint flavors make it just as enjoyable for casual get-togethers, garden parties, or even a relaxed evening on the patio. No matter the setting, the Old Cuban is guaranteed to impress.

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A Brief History of the Old Cuban

The Old Cuban is a relatively modern cocktail, created by Audrey Saunders, a legendary bartender and cocktail pioneer. Saunders introduced the drink in the early 2000s at the Pegu Club, her renowned cocktail bar in New York City. Inspired by the mojito, she elevated the classic rum-and-mint combination by incorporating champagne and Angostura bitters for added complexity and depth.

The result was a cocktail that felt timeless yet innovative, a drink that bridged the gap between tropical rum cocktails and elegant champagne-based libations. The Old Cuban quickly gained popularity, becoming a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts and bartenders alike.

What makes the Old Cuban so special is its ability to balance seemingly contrasting elements. It’s rich yet light, refreshing yet complex, casual yet refined. It’s a cocktail that captures the spirit of celebration while honoring the legacy of classic drinks.

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Why Aged Rum, Mint, and Champagne Are a Perfect Trio

The Old Cuban owes its magic to the harmonious interplay of its key ingredients. Here’s why each component is essential:

1. Aged Rum: The Bold Foundation

Aged rum forms the backbone of the Old Cuban, providing depth, warmth, and a hint of sweetness. Unlike white rum, which is light and clean, aged rum has been matured in barrels, developing rich flavors of caramel, vanilla, and spices. These notes add complexity to the cocktail, making it feel luxurious and satisfying.

2. Mint: The Refreshing Element

Fresh mint leaves bring a bright, herbaceous quality to the Old Cuban. When muddled, the mint releases its essential oils, infusing the cocktail with a refreshing aroma and flavor. Mint also balances the richness of the rum, ensuring the drink remains light and crisp.

3. Champagne: The Effervescent Finale

Champagne is the element that sets the Old Cuban apart. Its bubbles add a festive sparkle, while its dry, crisp character balances the sweetness of the rum and sugar. The champagne also enhances the citrusy lime and mint flavors, creating a drink that’s vibrant and well-rounded.

Supporting Cast:

• Lime Juice: Adds a zesty tang that brightens the cocktail and complements the sweetness of the rum.
• Simple Syrup: A touch of simple syrup brings just enough sweetness to balance the lime juice and champagne.
• Angostura Bitters: A few dashes of bitters add depth and complexity, tying all the flavors together.

Together, these ingredients create a cocktail that’s greater than the sum of its parts. It’s bold yet refined, refreshing yet indulgent—a true masterpiece in a glass.

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How to Make an Old Cuban: The Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz aged rum
• 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 6-8 fresh mint leaves
• 2 oz champagne or sparkling wine
• Ice
• Garnish: mint sprig or lime wheel

Instructions:

1. Muddle the Mint: In a cocktail shaker, add the mint leaves, lime juice, and simple syrup. Gently muddle the mint to release its flavor, being careful not to tear the leaves.
2. Add the Rum and Bitters: Pour in the aged rum and add the dashes of Angostura bitters. Fill the shaker with ice.
3. Shake: Shake the mixture vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
4. Strain: Double strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or champagne glass to remove any mint pieces.
5. Top with Champagne: Slowly pour the champagne over the cocktail, letting the bubbles blend naturally with the drink.
6. Garnish: Add a fresh mint sprig or a lime wheel for a polished finish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips:

• For a less sweet version, use brut champagne or reduce the amount of simple syrup.
• Experiment with different aged rums to find the flavor profile you like best.

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Picture Gallery

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FAQ Section

Q: Can I use white rum instead of aged rum?
A: While aged rum is traditional for the Old Cuban, white rum can be used if you prefer a lighter flavor. Keep in mind that the cocktail may lose some of its depth and richness.

Q: What’s the best type of champagne for this cocktail?
A: A dry champagne, such as brut, works best to balance the sweetness of the rum and simple syrup. Prosecco or cava are also great options.

Q: Can I make this drink in advance?
A: The mint and lime juice are best muddled fresh, but you can mix the rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and bitters in advance. Add the champagne and garnish just before serving.

Q: How do I make simple syrup?
A: Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then let it cool. Store in the fridge for up to two weeks.

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Variations

• Spiced Old Cuban: Use spiced rum and add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, aromatic twist.
• Coconut Old Cuban: Swap the aged rum for coconut rum to give the cocktail a tropical flair.
• Berry Old Cuban: Muddle fresh berries with the mint for a fruity variation.
• Non-Alcoholic Old Cuban: Replace the rum with a splash of apple cider and use sparkling water instead of champagne.

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When to Serve It

• Special Celebrations: Perfect for weddings, anniversaries, or milestone events.
• Holiday Parties: Add a festive touch to your gatherings with this elegant cocktail.
• Brunch: Pair it with savory dishes for a sophisticated start to the day.
• Casual Evenings: Enjoy it as a treat for yourself on a relaxed night in.

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Occasions to Serve It

• New Year’s Eve toasts
• Dinner parties and cocktail hours
• Romantic date nights
• Any occasion that calls for a bit of sparkle

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Conclusion

The Old Cuban is more than just a cocktail—it’s an invitation to celebrate life’s moments, big or small. With its combination of aged rum, refreshing lime and mint, and sparkling champagne, this drink is as delicious as it is elegant. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply indulging in a moment of self-care, the Old Cuban is the perfect choice.

So why not give it a try? Shake one up, sip slowly, and let the bubbles carry you to a place of pure joy. Cheers to celebrating life, one sparkling sip at a time! 🥂✨