There’s something timeless about the Cuba Libre—a drink that asks for little more than lime, rum, and cola but delivers far more than the sum of its parts. It’s bright, bold, and easy to love. Around here, it’s also a subtle invitation to experiment.
If we’ve ever crossed paths in the Kōloa Rum tasting room or you’ve followed along with The Island Spirit Kitchen, you know I love uncovering the small ways rum can elevate even the simplest drink. The Cuba Libre is one of those cocktails that feels like a breeze through palm fronds, like music from the next room, like a small celebration on an ordinary afternoon.
But even a three-ingredient drink can be layered and nuanced when you start with the right base. That’s the secret here—and the fun of it too. Whether you choose Kōloa White Rum or Kōloa Gold Rum, each version of the Cuba Libre tells a slightly different story. One’s light and tropical. The other’s smooth and mellow with a toasted finish.
And the best part? There’s no wrong choice. Just pick a rum, squeeze your lime, top with ice-cold cola—and you’ve got something crisp, refreshing, and unmistakably island-inspired.
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Cuba Libre
Servings: 1 drink
Ingredients
2 oz Kōloa White Rum (or try Kōloa Gold Rum for a smoother finish)
½ oz fresh lime juice (about ½ lime)
4 oz chilled cola (Mexican Coke or any cane sugar cola works best)
Ice
Garnish: Lime wedge
Instructions
1. Prepare your glass
Fill a tall highball or rocks glass with large ice cubes.
| Mixology Tip: Clear, large cubes help your drink stay colder longer without watering it down too fast.
2. Add fresh lime juice
Squeeze about ½ oz of lime juice directly into the glass.
| Mixology Tip: Fresh lime juice is essential—it balances sweetness and brightens every sip.
3. Pour in the rum
Add 2 oz of Kōloa White Rum or Kōloa Gold Rum over the ice and lime juice.
| Mixology Tip: Use a jigger for consistent flavor—this isn’t a drink you want to eyeball.
4. Top with cola
Slowly pour in 4 oz of cold cola.
| Mixology Tip: Pour over the back of a spoon to maintain the bubbles and avoid splashing.
5. Stir gently
Give your drink a gentle stir to combine without flattening the fizz.
6. Garnish and enjoy
Add a lime wedge to the rim or float it on top. Sip and savor.
White or Gold Rum? Try Both.
Kōloa Gold Rum
This rum is smooth and mellow, with soft notes of toasted caramel and vanilla. It’s perfect if you love a more classic Cuba Libre—warming and gently rich with each sip
Kōloa White Rum
Bright and crisp with subtle hints of cotton candy and fresh citrus pith, this version is ideal when you want a light, sparkling cocktail that feels beachy and refreshing.
Both options work beautifully here. One offers roundness, the other brightness. Let your mood decide—or try both!
Why It Works
The Cuba Libre thrives on contrast. The acid from lime juice cuts through the sweet cola, the rum anchors the drink with warmth and character, and the carbonation keeps everything light and lively.
It’s fast, unfussy, and full of flavor. But with the right rum and a few smart tips, it becomes something you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Optional Add-Ins & Variations
Drop of Vanilla Extract for added depth with Gold Rum
Try Ginger Cola or Spiced Cola for a punchier twist
Swap in Kōloa Spice Rum for cinnamon-clove richness
Fresh Mint Garnish for an unexpected herbal pop
Pairing Suggestions
Keep the island vibe going with these simple yet satisfying pairings:
Taro Chips or Spiced Mixed Nuts – Something crunchy to match the fizz
Grilled Kalua Pork Sliders – That cola sweetness loves smoky, savory flavors
Coconut Shrimp with Lime Dipping Sauce – Bright and fried, perfect with rum
BBQ Chicken Skewers – Sweet, tangy, and perfect with a cold Cuba Libre in hand
Pineapple-Mango Salsa with Tortilla Chips – Let the lime in your drink echo the tangy fruit
Thank You for Following
If you’ve been enjoying these island-inspired recipes, I just want to say mahalo nui loa. Whether you’ve found me through the Kōloa Rum tasting room, Facebook/Instagram, or this newsletter, The Island Spirit Kitchen exists because of your interest, curiosity.
Warmest aloha,
Nicole
The Island Spirit Kitchen