Virgin Cuba Libre
The classic Cuba Libre reimagined without rum — cola and fresh lime juice build a simple, crowd-pleasing zero-proof drink with real Caribbean spirit.
- 4 ozcola(chilled)
- ¾ ozfresh lime juice
- ¼ ozsimple syrup(optional)
- lime wedgegarnish
- 1Fill a highball glass with cubed ice.
- 2Squeeze fresh lime juice directly over the ice.
- 3Add simple syrup if desired for a touch more sweetness.
- 4Pour chilled cola gently down the side of the glass.
- 5Stir very briefly with a straw or bar spoon.
- 6Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.
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Cuba Libre, meaning "Free Cuba," was created around 1900 in Havana following Cuba's independence from Spain and the arrival of Coca-Cola on the island. American soldiers stationed in Cuba mixed their rum rations with the new American soft drink, sealing a partnership between Caribbean rum culture and the cola industry. The Virgin Cuba Libre strips out the rum, leaving the signature combination of cola and fresh lime that defined this iconic drink. It is one of the most natural and satisfying zero-proof builds in the mocktail repertoire.
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