Whisky of the Week

Meandering the world, one whisky at a time

Willett Pot Still Reserve Bourbon Whiskey

Willet Pot still reserve bourbon header
As the year speeds to its end, I was going through my bottles to find something different to try. A distinctive bourbon shaped like a pot still immediately caught my attention, and I couldn’t resist trying it. A reasonably unknown bourbon in South Africa, the Willett Pot Still Reserve bourbon whiskey bottle has a unique shape which drew my eye. 

How to make a Cuba Libre Cocktail

Cuba Libre cocktail headerThe Cuba Libre cocktail, a simple mix of rum, cola, and lime, is a drink that not only tantalises the taste buds but also carries a rich history, making it stand out from your ordinary rum and Coke. Let’s delve into the fascinating story behind this classic highball, its unique ingredients, and see how to make the perfect Cuba Libre cocktail.

The Origins of Cuba Libre

The Cuba Libre cocktail’s history is shrouded in mystery. Still, one thing is clear: It emerged in the early 20th century in Cuba, right after the country gained independence from Spanish rule. This newfound freedom led to a celebratory atmosphere, and inventing the drink might be credited to a U.S. Army captain stationed in Havana. 

Legend has it that he mixed Bacardí rum with Coca-Cola and a squeeze of lime while toasting, “Por Cuba Libre!”—a phrase that embodied the spirit of Cuban independence. The name stuck, and the cocktail quickly gained popularity.

However, some dispute the exact origins, and there are competing stories. Fausto Rodriguez, a Bacardi advertising executive, claimed to have been present when the drink was first poured in 1900, further adding to the intrigue.

Regardless of its precise inception, the Cuba Libre became a staple in Cuba, symbolising the nation’s quest for freedom.


Ingredients that Make a Difference

What distinguishes a Cuba Libre from a Rum and Coke is the addition of fresh lime juice. While both cocktails share rum and cola as core ingredients, the Cuba Libre’s zesty twist comes from adding lime.

Half a lime is juiced when preparing a traditional Cuba Libre, and the spent lime skin is muddled at the bottom of the glass to release more lime oils. This extra step results in a unique flavour profile and texture that sets it apart.

Furthermore, use your favourite cola. Be it Coca-Cola, Pepsi or a craft cola. As the cola is the main ingredient, using your favourite cola is essential.

Best rum to use for a Cuba Libre

Bacardi rum is the obvious choice if it is available where you live. They claim the Cuba Libre is the world’s second-most-popular alcoholic drink, emphasising its widespread appeal. While the classic recipe calls for light rum and Coca-Cola, variations abound.

Some use dark rum, while others experiment with different cola brands. There are also flavoured rums, which can add innovative flavour elements such as vanilla, coffee or tropical-flavoured rums.

However, here on the island of Mauritius, there are many delicious rums to choose from. Some of my favourites include:

Cuba libre cocktail ingredients

How to make a Cuba Libre Cocktail

Ingredients

  • Juice from 1/2 a lime
  • 50 ml rum
  • cola
  • Ice

Method

  • Muddle the lime skin lightly with ice in a glass.
  • Add the rum and the lime juice.
  • Pour in the cola. Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge—a perfect way to experience the Cuba Libre’s unique flavour.

The Cuba Libre cocktail is not merely a Rum and Coke with lime; it symbolises Cuba’s quest for freedom and a delightful blend of flavours that sets it apart. Its history, unique ingredients, and worldwide popularity make it a cocktail worth savouring and celebrating. 

Also Read: My Favourite Margarita Recipe



Kilchoman Machir Bay Islay Single Malt Whisky

Kilchoman Machir Bay whisky header
My 4th peated dram for this year; the Kilchoman Machir Bay Islay single malt Scotch whisky. The pretty blue of the label matches the blue Indian ocean here on the island of Mauritius.

Kilchoman is Scotland’s most westerly distillery and gets its water from a spring on Cnoc Dubh, just above the farm. Kilchoman was the first new distillery built on Islay in over 124 years. Anthony Wills, a former wine industry professional, founded the Kilchoman Distillery in 2005 at the Rochside farm.

Anthony’s idea was to establish a small-scale, traditional distillery with a farm-to-bottle focus. The barley is grown and malted at the distillery, and maturations and bottling occur onsite.


Most of the spirit is matured in ex-bourbon casks from Buffalo Trace in Kentucky, and the remaining spirit is matured in Oloroso sherry butts.

Kilchoman launched the Machir Bay single malt release in 2012 as the Kilchoman signature plated single malt, and it is named after the spectacular 2 km long beach on the west coast of Islay. Other releases in the core range include the Sanaig, Loch Gorm and the 100% Islay Edition.

Machir Bay is peated to 50 ppm. It is not chill-filtrated and has no added colour. It has no age statement.

Also Read: Michel Couvreur Peaty Whisky

Kilchoman Machir Bay Whisky Review 

Kilchoman Machir bay whisky with glass

ABV: 46%

REGION: Islay

COLOUR: Golden hay

NOSE: Soft peat with hints of ash, citrus notes and freshly baked vanilla sugar cookies. Something fruity and floral in the background with a lovely sugar sweetness. The sweetness reminds me of a madeleine dusted with icing sugar, warm from the oven.

PALATE: Ash and Islay peat with a burst of fruit and creamy vanilla. Bits of peach and pear with malt and cloves. Salted caramel and chocolate biscuits with a floral note. A few drops of water are perfect for toning down the slight alcohol burn and bring a chocolatey sweetness to the front. Hints of heather and honey. Elegant and well-balanced.

FINISH: Medium length with drying ash, peat, lemon pepper and fruit.

RATING: EXCELLENT

The Machir Bay is a lovely dram, subtle and well-balanced. The perfect peated whisky for here on the island. I prefer peated whisky in winter, but this release with the malt and vanilla notes worked wonderfully for our afternoon on the patio.

Peated enough to ensure the peat heads were happy but light enough to enjoy in our warm and humid climate. I need to pick up more from this distillery when we travel. In South Africa, Kilchoman Machir Bay whisky retails for around R940, and WhiskyShop has a few left.

Also Read: Scottish Cousin Whisky



How to make a Bloody Mary Cocktail

Bloody Mary cocktailThe Bloody Mary cocktail continues to be among the top 15 most requested cocktails in bars worldwide every year. For some reason, I can’t wrap my head around this savoury tomato juice-based cocktail. 

Aultmore 18 year old Whisky

Aultmore 18 yo whisky header
Today, I’m diving into the Aultmore 18 year old Foggie Moss whisky, and what immediately captures my attention is the enchanting name of their single malt collection: Foggy Moss. Just mentioning it conjures a vivid image – a hauntingly beautiful scene of fog weaving through the corridors of a moss-draped, long-forgotten castle nestled on the misty moors.

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