Stirred Up Stories: The Mojito — Pirates, Plagues & Hemingway’s Favourite
- Danny Joyce | Editor
- Jul 8
- 2 min read
Few cocktails evoke the warm Caribbean sun and laid-back island vibes like the Mojito. Fresh mint, lime, sugar, rum, and soda water come together to create a simple yet utterly refreshing drink that’s stood the test of time. But beneath that cool, bubbly surface lies a story full of intrigue, pirates, and literary legends.
The Origins: A Pirate’s Remedy and Cuban Roots
The Mojito’s story starts in the 16th century with Sir Francis Drake, the English sea captain and privateer. Legend has it that Drake’s crew mixed a crude version of the Mojito — combining aguardiente (a precursor to rum), lime, sugar, and mint — to fight scurvy and dysentery on long voyages. Fast forward to 19th-century Cuba, where the drink evolved with the introduction of rum and became a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Hemingway’s Stamp of Approval
Ernest Hemingway famously drank Mojitos at La Bodeguita del Medio in Havana, helping to popularise the cocktail worldwide. His appreciation gave the Mojito a literary flair and cemented its place in cocktail history.
How to Make the Classic Mojito
Ingredients:
50ml White Rum
1 tbsp Sugar (or 2 tsp simple syrup)
30ml Fresh Lime Juice
6-8 Fresh Mint Leaves
Soda Water
Ice
Lime wedge and mint sprig, for garnish
Method:
In a sturdy glass, muddle the mint leaves gently with sugar and lime juice — just enough to release the oils, not shred the leaves.
Fill the glass with crushed ice.
Pour in the rum.
Top up with soda water.
Stir gently to combine.
Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of mint.
Variations & Tips
Swap white rum for dark or aged rum for a richer flavour.
Use freshly squeezed juice for the best zing.
Don’t over-muddle the mint to avoid bitterness.
Try adding a splash of fresh pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
Why It Works
The Mojito’s charm lies in its balance of sweet, sour, and fresh — the mint and lime brighten the deep rum notes, creating a drink that’s both refreshing and complex. It’s a true classic that invites you to relax, unwind, and enjoy the moment.
Slán go fóill.
