Rum is the only alcoholic ingredient in a classic Cuba Libre besides Coca-Cola.
The drink is commonly made with light rum, cola, and fresh lime juice, served over ice. The lime distinguishes a Cuba Libre from a simple rum and cola, although informal preparation and ordering habits can blur that difference. A lime wedge is often used both for juice and as a garnish.
The cocktail’s name means “Free Cuba.” It is widely associated with Cuba around the period of the Spanish-American War, when the phrase became a patriotic slogan. A popular origin story places the drink in Havana and credits American soldiers or expatriates with combining Coca-Cola and rum. The historical details are not completely settled, but the rum-and-cola formula is consistent. The drink should not be confused with a Cuba Libre made with dark rum or with other cola cocktails whose base spirit is different.