Old Cuban (aka "The Vintage Rebel")

Difficulty: 2 (Moderate - requires shaking, muddling, or 4+ ingredients)
Type: Sidecar

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz Aged Rum
• 3/4 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 1 oz Simple Syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
• 6 Fresh Mint Leaves
• 2 oz Chilled Champagne

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, muddle the mint gently with lime juice and simple syrup.
2. Add aged rum, bitters, and ice. Shake until well chilled.
3. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
4. Top with Champagne.
5. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig for a sharp, classy finish.

Description:

The Old Cuban is what happens when a Mojito puts on a tuxedo and sneaks into a Gatsby party. It’s got the refreshing brightness of mint and lime, the depth of aged rum, and just when you think you’ve figured it out — boom!! Champagne shows up to keep the night going. It’s elegant without being uptight, bold without being brash. In short, this is the kind of drink that makes you feel like you should be leaning against a grand piano, not your kitchen counter.