The Old Cuban is an elegant, refreshing cocktail that combines aged rum, champagne, mint, lime, and bitters for a sophisticated twist on the classic mojito. Created by the renowned bartender Audrey Saunders in the early 2000s, the Old Cuban quickly gained popularity for its balanced, complex flavors and sparkling finish. With its mix of rich rum, fresh mint, and bubbly champagne, the Old Cuban is perfect for celebrations or anytime you want a cocktail that’s both refined and refreshing. Let’s explore the origins, unique qualities, and recipe for crafting the perfect Old Cuban at home.
The Origins of the Old Cuban
The Old Cuban was created by Audrey Saunders, an influential bartender and owner of the iconic New York City bar Pegu Club. Saunders was inspired by the classic mojito but wanted to elevate the drink with a more mature, sophisticated profile. By using aged rum instead of white rum, adding bitters, and topping the cocktail with champagne, she created a cocktail that retains the refreshing qualities of a mojito while adding depth and complexity.
The Old Cuban has since become a modern classic, enjoyed for its harmonious blend of rum, mint, and sparkling champagne. It’s a drink that bridges the gap between the relaxed vibe of a mojito and the elegance of a champagne cocktail, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.
What Makes the Old Cuban So Unique
The Old Cuban stands out for a few reasons:
- Rich, Complex Flavor: With aged rum and bitters, the Old Cuban has a deeper, more sophisticated profile than a typical mojito, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice.
- Sparkling Champagne Finish: The addition of champagne gives the Old Cuban a light, bubbly texture that makes it feel festive and refreshing.
- Perfectly Balanced Ingredients: The combination of rum, mint, lime, and champagne creates a drink that’s both sweet, sour, and effervescent, appealing to a wide range of palates.
How to Make the Perfect Old Cuban
The Old Cuban is relatively simple to make and requires just a few quality ingredients. Here’s the classic recipe for this refined, bubbly cocktail.
Classic Old Cuban Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ oz (4.5 cl) aged rum
- ¾ oz (2.25 cl) fresh lime juice
- 1 oz (3 cl) simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 6–8 fresh mint leaves
- Champagne or sparkling wine, to top
- Ice
- Mint sprig or lime twist for garnish
Instructions:
- Muddle the Mint: In a cocktail shaker, add the fresh mint leaves, lime juice, and simple syrup. Gently muddle to release the mint’s flavor without bruising the leaves.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the aged rum and bitters to the shaker.
- Shake with Ice: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10–15 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
- Strain and Serve: Double strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or champagne flute to remove any mint pieces.
- Top with Champagne: Gently pour champagne or sparkling wine over the top to fill the glass.
- Garnish: Garnish with a mint sprig or a lime twist for a touch of color and aroma.
Tip: Use a dry champagne or sparkling wine to balance the sweetness of the rum and simple syrup, enhancing the cocktail’s refreshing quality.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
- Aged Rum: A good quality aged rum brings depth and complexity to the Old Cuban. Look for a rum that has notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, such as Bacardi 8 or Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva.
- Champagne or Sparkling Wine: Use a dry champagne or brut sparkling wine to add bubbles and balance the cocktail’s sweetness. A quality prosecco or cava can also work well if you prefer a more budget-friendly option.
- Mint: Fresh mint is essential for the Old Cuban, adding a bright, aromatic flavor that enhances the rum and lime. Be gentle when muddling to avoid bitterness.
- Simple Syrup: Simple syrup provides a touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the lime. You can make it by dissolving equal parts sugar and water.
- Angostura Bitters: The bitters add a hint of spice and complexity, rounding out the drink’s flavors. Just a couple of dashes are enough to enhance the cocktail’s depth.
Tips for Perfecting Your Old Cuban
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and mint make a big difference in flavor, giving the Old Cuban a bright, refreshing quality.
- Double Strain for Smoothness: Double strain the cocktail to remove any mint bits, creating a smooth, refined drink that’s perfect for sipping.
- Choose a Quality Rum: Since rum is the main spirit in the Old Cuban, a high-quality aged rum will enhance the drink’s complexity and richness.
- Experiment with Garnishes: A mint sprig is classic, but a lime twist or even a small edible flower can add a unique touch.
Old Cuban Variations to Try
While the classic Old Cuban is perfect as it is, here are a few variations to explore:
- Spicy Old Cuban: Add a slice of jalapeño when muddling the mint for a subtle kick that complements the lime and mint.
- Tropical Old Cuban: Add a splash of pineapple juice or muddle fresh pineapple chunks for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the aged rum.
- Smoky Old Cuban: Substitute a portion of the aged rum with a smoky mezcal for an earthy, smoky version that adds depth to the cocktail.
- Herbal Old Cuban: Muddle fresh basil or thyme with the mint for a unique herbal flavor that enhances the drink’s complexity.
- Ginger Old Cuban: Add a splash of ginger syrup or ginger liqueur for a spicy-sweet variation that complements the rum and lime.
When to Serve the Old Cuban
The Old Cuban’s sparkling, refreshing profile and refined flavors make it ideal for various occasions:
- Celebrations and Special Events: The champagne finish makes the Old Cuban a perfect choice for toasts, anniversaries, or holiday gatherings.
- Pre-Dinner Aperitif: With its bright citrus and sparkling bubbles, the Old Cuban is an excellent aperitif to whet the appetite before a meal.
- Brunch and Daytime Gatherings: This cocktail’s light, refreshing quality makes it a great choice for brunch or daytime events, adding a touch of sophistication to the occasion.
- Warm-Weather Entertaining: The mint and lime make the Old Cuban especially refreshing, making it perfect for warm-weather sipping on patios or at outdoor gatherings.
Why You Should Try the Old Cuban
The Old Cuban is more than just a cocktail—it’s an elevated, sophisticated twist on a classic that combines the rich flavors of aged rum with the refreshing, bubbly finish of champagne. With its balanced blend of rum, mint, lime, and bitters, this drink offers a unique, complex profile that’s both celebratory and approachable. It’s perfect for those who enjoy the flavors of a mojito but want something a bit more refined and festive.
For fans of rum cocktails, sparkling drinks, or anyone looking to explore modern classics, the Old Cuban is a must-try. Its easy preparation, elegant presentation, and layered flavors make it a fantastic addition to any cocktail repertoire.
So next time you’re in the mood for a cocktail that’s both refreshing and sophisticated, mix up an Old Cuban, raise your glass, and toast to the art of blending classic flavors with a modern twist. Cheers!