Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic16.5% ABV4 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderateshaken drink
Why: 4 ingredients, shaken drink, requires shaker
Best for: Seafood, Spicy Food, Tropical
Ingredients & Tools
BaseModifierCitrusMixer
- 1.0 ozPineapple JuiceMixer
- 2.0 ozJuice Of A LimeCitrus
- 1.0 ozOld Mr. Boston RumBase
- 2.0 ozOld Mr. Boston Triple SecModifier
Tools:shaker
How to Make It
ShakeGarnish
- Shake with ice and strain into cocktail glass.ShakeShaking chills, dilutes and adds texture.
- Decorate with stick of pineapple and a cherry.GarnishGarnish changes aroma, presentation or final flavour impression.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
Swap notes
Base spiritWhite rum is light and clean; gold rum adds vanilla warmth; dark rum is rich and molasses-heavy. Swapping between them changes the body and sweetness — reduce syrup if going darker.CitrusLemon juice can replace lime but it is sharper and less floral — the drink will taste brighter and slightly more tart. Grapefruit juice works if you want something more bitter. Whichever you use, add a little at a time and taste as you go.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Cuban Special Cocktail?
- The Cuban Special Cocktail is a cocktail made with 4 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 16.5%. A standard serving contains approximately 276 calories.
- What does a Cuban Special Cocktail taste like?
- Cuban Special Cocktail has a flavour profile featuring Citrus, Sweet, Apple, Lime. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Cuban Special Cocktail?
- Cuban Special Cocktail pairs well with Seafood, Spicy Food, Mexican Cuisine. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Cuban Special Cocktail?
- The Cuban Special Cocktail has an ABV of approximately 16.5%. That's approximately 1.65 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 276 calories, 18.8g sugar, 26.5g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Cuban Special Cocktail typically served?
- Cuban Special Cocktail is a popular choice for Tropical, Seafood Dinner, Summer. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Cuban Special Cocktail?
- If you enjoy Cuban Special Cocktail, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a Cuban Special Cocktail at home?
- Yes. The Cuban Special Cocktail uses 4 ingredients, making it straightforward to prepare at home. You will need a Cocktail Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Cuban Special Cocktail with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.