Old Cuban
The Old Cuban is a delightful blend of white rum, fresh mint, and sparkling Prosecco, creating a refreshing and effervescent cocktail. Its vibrant flavors and bubbly texture make it a perfect choice for celebrations or a sophisticated evening.
Ingredients
- White Rum spirit 60 ml (2 oz)
- Sugar Syrup syrup 30 ml (1 oz)
- Lime Juice juice 30 ml (1 oz)
- Angostura Bitters bitter 2 dashes
- Prosecco mixer 60 ml (2 oz)
- Mint garnish handful
How to Make a Old Cuban
Shake a handful of mint, 2oz white rum, 1oz of sugar syrup, 1oz lime juice and 2 dashes angostura bitters with ice. Double strain into a glass and top with 2oz of prosecco.
Bartender Tip
Use fresh mint and gently muddle it to release its oils without tearing the leaves for a more aromatic cocktail.
History of the Old Cuban
The Old Cuban was created by cocktail expert Audrey Saunders at her bar, Pegu Club, in New York City in the early 2000s. It draws inspiration from the classic Mojito while incorporating the elegance of champagne.
About the Old Cuban
The Old Cuban is a cocktail that belongs to the alcoholic family of cocktails. It is traditionally prepared with White Rum, Sugar Syrup, Lime Juice and served in a Cocktail glass.
Best enjoyed during celebrations, at parties, at brunch.
As with all alcoholic beverages, please enjoy this cocktail responsibly.
Did You Know?
The Old Cuban is often considered a 'celebration cocktail' due to its sparkling nature and is frequently served at weddings and festive gatherings.
Old Cuban Variations
Pairs Well With
Quick Facts
Common Mistake
A common mistake is over-muddling the mint, which can release bitterness instead of the desired fresh flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of the Old Cuban cocktail?
The Old Cuban was created by Audrey Saunders, a renowned mixologist, in the early 2000s. It is inspired by the classic Mojito but adds a sparkling twist with Prosecco, making it a modern classic in cocktail bars.
Can I use another type of rum in an Old Cuban?
While the Old Cuban traditionally uses white rum for its clean flavor, you can experiment with aged rum for a richer taste. However, this will alter the cocktail's original profile, providing a deeper complexity.
How does the Angostura bitters affect the flavor of the Old Cuban?
Angostura bitters add a subtle depth and complexity to the Old Cuban, balancing the sweetness of the sugar syrup and the tartness of the lime juice. This aromatic enhancement elevates the overall flavor profile of the cocktail.
What is the best way to prepare the mint for an Old Cuban?
To prepare the mint for an Old Cuban, gently clap the mint leaves between your hands before adding them to the shaker. This releases the essential oils without bruising the leaves too much, ensuring a fresh mint flavor in the cocktail.
Is there a specific type of Prosecco that works best in an Old Cuban?
A dry Prosecco, such as 'Brut,' is recommended for the Old Cuban to maintain the cocktail's balance of flavors. A sweeter Prosecco could overpower the other ingredients, so choosing one with a crisp finish is ideal.
