The tangy flavor of lime, cool, herbaceous mint, and the fruity bite of rum make the Mojito a beloved warm-weather drink. It’s easier to make than you might think—just grab a muddler and get smashing.

Cocktail History

Like most cocktails, the Mojito has a murky and hotly debated history. Some accounts trace it back Sir Francis Drake's exploits, while others claim the Mojito was the result of a South American medicinal concoction, and some like to say it was Ernest Hemingway's favorite drink (but people say that about almost every single cocktail). There are theories that the name comes from the Spanish word "mojar," meaning "to wet a little" and refers to the method of muddling mint leaves with a bit of water or sugarcane juice. Regardless of who invented it, the drink took off in Havana, Cuba and gained popularity worldwide, becoming one of the most well-known and often-ordered cocktails, much to many a bartender's chagrin.

While bartenders may heave a sigh at the prospect of muddling mint on a busy Friday night, the drink itself is simple, refreshing, and worth a little extra effort. Fresh mint is a must for this cocktail, so make sure you have some on hand before trying this drink at home.