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Make Me a Cocktail

Old Cuban
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.71 / 5

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You’ll find the Old Cuban sitting in that sweet spot between a Mojito and a Champagne cocktail: aged rum, fresh... ... more

You’ll find the Old Cuban sitting in that sweet spot between a Mojito and a Champagne cocktail: aged rum, fresh lime, mint, and a sparkling wine lift, served up in a cocktail glass. It’s a modern classic rather than a centuries-old standard, and it’s best thought of as a contemporary rum cocktail that borrows familiar Cuban cues—mint and lime—then dresses them in something more celebratory with bubbles and bitters.

On the palate, aged rum brings rounded, oaky depth that plays against the snap of lime juice. Simple syrup smooths the edges, turning the citrus into a more plush, balanced tart-sweet core, while mint leaves add a clean, cooling freshness that keeps everything bright. A couple of dashes of aromatic bitters stitch the flavours together with gentle spice, and Champagne or prosecco adds a crisp, fizzy finish that lightens the rum and carries the mint through the last sip.

Serve it when you want something festive but not overly sweet—ideal for aperitif hour, celebrations, or a “one more round” nightcap that still feels polished. If you like Mojito-style freshness but prefer a more grown-up, spirit-forward base, this is the kind of drink you’ll reach for.
Check out all our FAQ's on this cocktail

Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
15 key ingredients
Cocktail Of The Day
Base ingredient
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Champagne / prosecco
Calories
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215 calories
Garnish
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Mint
Alcohol content
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15.18% | 2.52 units *
Details
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Classic
Shaken

Tags

Champagne / prosecco ingredient icon
Champagne / prosecco cocktails
Mint leaves ingredient icon
Top ten Mint leaves cocktails
Aged rum ingredient icon
Top ten Aged rum cocktails

Cocktail glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

Aged rum leads with warm depth, brightened by lime juice and lifted by Champagne/prosecco fizz, while simple syrup rounds the edges; mint leaves add a cool, green snap and aromatic bitters bring a spiced, perfumed finish. It works because the lime and bubbles keep the syrup and rum from feeling heavy, and the mint-bitters combo adds structure—ideal for Mojito fans wanting something more elegant.

Method
How to make a Old Cuban

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Aged rum 45ml, Champagne / prosecco 60ml, Lime juice 22.5 ml, Sugar / simple syrup 30ml, Aromatic bitters 2 dashes, Mint leaves 8
Muddle the mint leaves and rum in a cocktail shaker
Add the sugar syrup, lime juice and two dashes of Angostura bitters
Shake well with lots of ice and strain into a cocktail glass
Top up with the champagne and gently stir the mixture
Garnish with a mint sprig before serving
~ Taste and if necessary add a touch more sugar syrup or lime juice. ~

Power tips
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Use fresh mint leaves and gently bruise them to release essential oils without tearing them apart, ensuring a balanced mint flavor.
Opt for a high-quality aged rum as it imparts depth and complexity to the cocktail, making a noticeable difference in the final taste.
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Old Cuban masterclass

Master the craft of the Old Cuban cocktail with one of our cocktail deep dive masterclasses

History of the Old Cuban

Cuban drinks have quite a cult following in the cocktail world. Stunning cocktails including the dai...

Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Muddle  ·  Bitters  ·  Shake  ·  Strain  ·  Stir  ·  Garnish  · 

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the origin of the Old Cuban cocktail?

The Old Cuban is a relatively modern cocktail that was created by famed bartender Audrey Saunders. It is believed to have originated in the early 2000s at the Pegu Club in New York City. The drink is a variant of the classic Mojito but is more sophisticated, with the addition of champagne and a shift from being served on the rocks to being presented in a cocktail glass.

Ingredient substitutions icon

Can I substitute the champagne in an Old Cuban with another type of sparkling wine?

Yes, you can substitute the champagne with another type of sparkling wine if you prefer or if champagne is not available. Prosecco is a popular alternative, providing a slightly sweeter taste. Cava is another suitable substitute, offering a dryer profile similar to champagne. The choice of sparkling wine can slightly alter the taste and feel of the cocktail but will still be in keeping with the spirit of the Old Cuban.

Ingredient specifics icon

What is the significance of using aged rum in an Old Cuban?

The use of aged rum in an Old Cuban is significant because it brings a depth of flavor that younger rums cannot provide. Aged rum contributes notes of vanilla, spice, and sometimes caramel, depending on the rum used, that enhance the complexity and richness of the cocktail. This choice of spirit contrasts with the fresh, zesty lime and mint, creating a balanced and sophisticated drink.

Alcohol content comparison icon

How does the alcohol content of an Old Cuban compare to other classic cocktails?

With an alcohol content of 15.18%, the Old Cuban falls into a moderate range of potency for classic cocktails. It is stronger than light cocktails like the classic Mojito, which it is based on, due to the addition of champagne and higher quantities of rum, but it is not as strong as some spirit-forward cocktails like the Martini or Manhattan. Its balance makes it a perfect choice for those looking for a cocktail that is neither too light nor too strong.

Faq icon

What makes the Old Cuban a celebrated cocktail in the bartending world?

The Old Cuban is celebrated in the bartending world for its sophisticated balance of flavors, elegant presentation, and modern twist on the classic Mojito. Its creation by Audrey Saunders, a respected figure in the cocktail revival movement of the early 21st century, also adds to its prestige. Moreover, its ability to embody the essence of a traditional cocktail while presenting something new and vibrant has made it a favorite among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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