The Mojito

Ingredients:

• 6 large mint leaves (or 10–12 medium)
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• 1/8 of a lime (optional)
• 1 oz lime juice (or juice of 1 large lime)
• 1.5 oz white rum (we prefer Cruzan)
• ~2 oz soda water

Build Option 1: Built in the Glass

For those who like the mint leaves in the mix.

1. Add mint and simple syrup to your glass, then gently muddle to release the oils.
2. (Optional) Add the lime wedge and muddle to extract juice and oils from the skin.
3. Pour in lime juice and rum. Add ice, leaving about 2 oz of room at the top.
4. Stir well to chill.
5. Top with soda water and give it one last gentle stir.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and a fresh mint sprig.

Build Option 2: Shaken and Strained

For those who prefer a smooth sip without the leaves.

1. In a shaker, combine mint and simple syrup. Muddle gently.
2. (Optional) Add the lime wedge and muddle again.
3. Add lime juice and rum. Fill shaker with ice and shake well.
4. Strain into a glass over fresh ice, leaving space for soda water.
5. Top with soda water and stir gently with a bar spoon.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and mint sprig.

The Mojito
Most people probably don’t think twice about the history of this simple, refreshing summer drink, but its origin story might surprise you.

It started out in Cuba as a medicinal tonic called El Draque, named after the English privateer Sir Francis Drake, and was used to help fight off scurvy and dysentery. Over the years, it evolved with the culture and ingredients available, eventually becoming the summer icon we know and love today.

While El Draque laid the foundation for the mojito, it definitely didn’t start out as the crisp, cool cocktail we’re familiar with. It took centuries of refinement to get there. The original version from the 1500s was made with aguardiente de caña, a much earthier, harsher precursor to rum, along with lime juice, sugar, and mint. It wasn’t until the 1700s, when rum production improved, that the drink started to evolve into something closer to its modern form.

By the 1800s, the mojito (still without soda water) had found its place in Cuban culture, and by the early 1900s, it took on its final form with the addition of soda water, giving it that signature fizz and refreshment.

From there, it didn’t take long for the drink to catch on, especially with tourists. During Prohibition, Americans flocked to Cuba in search of good drinks and better nightlife, and the mojito was ready and waiting. By the time the 1950s rolled around, it had left its mark across the globe, and it still stands today as a proud symbol of Cuban heritage and hospitality.

So next time you're enjoying one, remember, this cocktail may be easy to drink, but its history runs deep.