MOJITO

The mojito has been voted one of the most popular cocktails in the world and has been a firm favourite for decades. Although there are plenty of spins on the classic, the original mojito is simply made with white rum, lime, mint, sugar, and soda water. This perfect blend makes the drink ideal for the summer months. Some say the cocktail was invented centuries ago. It represents the spirit and culture of its birthplace: Havana, Cuba.

Mixologists will usually select a white rum for the preparation of this cocktail; we recommend the Havana Club Añejo 3 Años. With notes of zingy citrus, sweet fruits, hints of oak, and fresh sugarcane, it has a mild flavour that’s perfect for cocktails.

Although the classic mojito is still popular, other blends have become widespread in recent years. There are lots of fruits you can add to give your cocktail an original, sometimes even tropical twist. Apart from our favourite, the Spiced Mojito, Raspberry Mojito and the Pineapple Mojito, other variations include the following:

•  Strawberry mojito. This is a great take on an old favourite. Strawberries give the cocktail an extra sweetness that’s fruity and fun.
•  Passion fruit mojito. Sweet and citrussy, push the pulp through a strainer to separate the seeds.
•  Mango mojito. Tropical and smooth, mango with rum and lime juice is the perfect combo.
•  Watermelon mojito. Watermelon works well in mojitos because it has similar cooling and refreshing properties to lime and mint. It will also give your drink a pretty pink hue.
•  Mojito Royale. This cocktail is made with white or golden rum. Champagne or sparkling wine are used instead of soda which gives the drink a luxury twist.

All of these flavoured mojitos can be made with fresh fruit or a dash of fruit juice, or for a more intense flavour, you can use a syrup. Berries and tropical fruits can be muddled down alongside the classic trinity of rum, lime and sugar to twist this iconic classic.