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zacapa rum

Zacapa Rum & the Cuba Libre

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Zacapa Rum is crafted in the highlands of Guatemala, aged at an altitude of 7,545 feet above sea level. This unique aging process, known as “aging above the clouds,” allows the rum to develop a deeper aroma and richer layers of flavor. The cooler temperatures and thinner air at this altitude slow down the aging process, resulting in a smoother, more complex rum.

Solera Aging

One of the key elements that set Zacapa apart is its use of the Sistema Solera method. This traditional Spanish aging process involves blending rums of different ages in a series of barrels that previously held robust American whiskies, sherries, and fine wines. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that include notes of caramel, vanilla, cocoa, and dried fruit.

Master Blender’s Touch

Behind every bottle of Zacapa is the expertise of Master Blender Lorena Vásquez. Her meticulous attention to detail and passion for rum-making ensure that each batch of Zacapa maintains its high quality and distinctive character. Lorena’s innovative approach and dedication have earned Zacapa numerous awards and a loyal following among rum enthusiasts.

A Legacy of Excellence

Since its creation in 1976 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the town of Zacapa, this rum has become a symbol of Guatemalan craftsmanship and tradition. Its commitment to quality and innovation continues to set Zacapa apart in the world of premium spirits.

Cheers to discovering the magic of Zacapa!

Zacapa & the Cuba Libre

The Cuba Libre is a cocktail with beautiful history and simple elegance, and has been a favorite for over a century. Originating in Havana around the early 1900s, this drink was born out of a celebration of Cuba’s independence from Spain. The name “Cuba Libre” translates to “Free Cuba,” a toast to freedom that has become synonymous with this refreshing cocktail.

The classic recipe is straightforward:

  • 1/4 of fresh lime juice
  • 2 oz of Zacapa rum
  • top-off with Mexican Coca-Cola
  • build in a highball glass and garnish with a lime wheel

The lime juice adds a zesty kick that balances the sweetness of the cola, while the rum provides a smooth, tropical base. Served over ice in a highball glass and garnished with a lime wedge, the Cuba Libre is both simple and sophisticated.

Whether you’re toasting to freedom or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon, the Cuba Libre is a timeless choice that never goes out of style.

Cuba Libre

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cuba libre with q drinks kola

When I started Simple Cocktails, I noticed that usually, the classic cocktails are the simplest. A balanced drink is often an issue of a bit of trial and error, too, to get the ratio of liquor and mixer just right.

I’m excited to have Q Drinks on board for this drink in particular, because I feel like soda’s become more and more sweet these days from it’s original makeup, which was a bit spicy balanced with sweet, with notes of clove, cinnamon and vanilla. Q Drink’s Kola is just that, though, a less-sweet traditional cola that makes a killer cocktail mixer because it allows you to make a balanced cocktail, and mixing Kola with rum, which also has some great caramel and cinnamon notes, is a match made in heaven.

This is a cocktail that’s pretty well-known, a slightly jazzed up Rum and Coke really. Just add a touch of lime juice and lots of limes for garnish, and you have the Cuba Libre cocktail:

Cube Libre

  • in a double old fashioned glass filled with ice, add:
  • 2 ounces aged rum (I used Havana Club)
  • 1/4 oz lime juice
  • top with Q Kola or your cola of choice (about 4-5 oz)
  • stir briefly and garnish with several thin lime wedges

Special thanks to our sponsor Q Drinks.