How to Make a Mojito

A brief history of the Mojito

The story goes that the Mojito has its roots in 16th-century Cuba, and was originally poured as a medicinal sipper! Apparently, it was called “El Draque,” named after Sir Francis Drake, an English sea captain. The drink was made with a rough form of rum, lime, and mint, and was used to prevent scurvy and various other ailments.

Over time, the recipe evolved, and as rum became more refined, the Mojito took the shape we know and love today. If you ever visit Havana, don’t forget to stop by La Bodeguita del Medio, the famous bar where Ernest Hemingway claimed to have enjoyed many Mojitos.

Also see: The Ultimate Guide to Muddled Cocktails (Tips, Recipes & More)

What makes a Mojito?

For an authentic Mojito, you combine a few indigenous Cuban ingredients, and you’ll have one sweet, sparkly sip. It’s so easy – all you need is white rum, lime, mint, sugar and a little club soda for a fizzy finish. Can you feel the sunshine yet?

Let’s break down our Mojito cocktail ingredients a bit further. Start with a top-shelf white rum like Trois Rivières White Rum, as its honey tones add the perfect sweetness. For the lime, always freshly squeeze them at the last minute for extra zing. For the mint, we suggest using spearmint, not only is it easy to come by, but because it’s sweeter and softer than peppermint, and much easier to muddle.

Now, let’s get to the important how to make a Mojito part. Don’t worry if you don’t own a full cocktail kit, all you need is a jug or shaker and a rolling pin or pestle for the muddling. Then for serving, grab a highball glass along with some ice.

What’s the best rum for Mojito?

A classic Mojito recipe calls for a white rum, not a dark one, which is aged in charred oak barrels after distillation. White rum is typically not aged or lightly aged in stainless steel barrels, which keeps it clear. We love Trois Rivières White Rum for its honey and spice-forward flavor. Another winner is Wray and Nephew Overproof Rum with its rich molasses notes, both offering a good subtle base for our refreshing cocktail. 

Can you use dark rum in a Mojito?

While the classic Mojito recipe calls for white rum, using dark rum can bring a whole new dimension to the cocktail. Aged rums like Appleton Estate Signature offer rich, caramel notes that give the drink a deeper, more complex flavor. It’s not the traditional way, but if you’re feeling adventurous, give it a try! Just keep in mind, dark rum will slightly change the look and taste of your Mojito, making it bolder with a more intense profile.

Learn more: Guide to Choosing the Best Rum for Mojitos

How to make a Mojito for a party

Do you want to make easy summer cocktails for a crowd? No problemo! Refreshing pitcher cocktails (like our Mojito) are a lifesaver for an outdoor cocktail party; let’s show you how. Save time, just skip the sugar and opt for equal measures of simple syrup instead. If you want, make our easy recipe or get store-bought.  

An average pitcher can hold 60 oz, so mix up our recipe 8 times (without the club soda and ice). Make the minty infusion ahead of time, just simmer your syrup for 3 minutes with roughly chopped mint, cool, and strain. This can be done up to 3 days in advance and kept chilled in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just stir well, add the ice, and top up with club soda for the fizz and garnish. 

More drinks to try if you love a Mojito

If the vibrant mix of mint and lime in a Mojito is your vibe, you’ll definitely enjoy these cocktails too:

• Daiquiri: Another lime and rum classic, but this one is shaken with ice and served chilled.
• Caipirinha: Brazil’s national cocktail uses cachaça, lime, and sugar for a tropical twist.
• Mint Julep: Swap out the rum for bourbon, and you’ve got a Southern favorite with plenty of minty kick.
• Hemingway Daiquiri: This one’s a slightly more sour take on the Daiquiri with grapefruit juice added in.

Cheers, dears! 10 Easy White Rum Drinks to Make at Home