Paul Kushner
The Cantaloupe Mojito is a fruity take on the classic Cuban cocktail, infused with the mellow sweetness of cantaloupe rum. Fresh lime juice and mint keep things lively and refreshing, while club soda adds a clean, bubbly finish. It’s a perfect warm-weather sipper that brings a tropical twist to the traditional mojito without overwhelming the delicate balance of citrus, sweetness, and herbs. Serve it over ice with fresh cantaloupe and mint for a drink that feels fresh and easygoing.
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Tasting Notes
The Cantaloupe Mojito brings a fruity spin to the classic Cuban cocktail. Muddled mint provides a refreshing herbal base, while the cantaloupe rum adds a soft, summery sweetness that complements the citrusy kick of fresh lime. The simple syrup rounds out the tartness, and the club soda keeps the drink light and easy to sip. Each sip balances cooling mint and ripe melon, making it crisp and mellow with just the right touch of brightness. It’s a smooth, refreshing cocktail built for laid-back afternoons and warm evenings.
Equipment and Glassware
To make this Cantaloupe Mojito, you’ll need a cocktail shaker, muddler, jigger, strainer (preferably fine mesh), and bar spoon. The cocktail is served in a Collins glass, which provides the right height and volume to hold ice, soda, and garnishes while maintaining a good mix of ingredients. You’ll also want a citrus juicer for the lime, and if available, a melon baller or sharp knife to prepare attractive cantaloupe slices for garnish.
Ingredients
- 3 oz cantaloupe rum
- ¾ oz fresh lime juice
- ¾ oz simple syrup
- 3 oz club soda
- 2 sprigs fresh mint
- Garnish: mint sprig and cantaloupe slices
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, combine cantaloupe rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and mint.
- Add ice and shake firmly for about 10 seconds.
- Double strain over fresh ice in Collins glass to keep out mint pieces and pulp.
- Pour in the chilled club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint and two slices of cantaloupe.
Pro Tips
- Slap the mint before adding to release its aroma
- Use a fine mesh strainer to catch small mint bits
- Chill the Collins glass before building the drink
- For a stronger melon note, use a cantaloupe purée in place of some simple syrup
- Fresh lime juice is essential—avoid bottled substitutes
- If using a melon baller, skewer cantaloupe balls as an alternate garnish
- Shake just long enough to chill, not over-dilute
- Serve immediately while the soda is still fizzy
When to Serve
The Cantaloupe Mojito fits best on sunny afternoons, summer gatherings, and outdoor lunches. It’s great poolside or at casual barbecues, but also works well as a starter drink at tropical-themed parties. Its fresh, cooling profile makes it ideal for warm-weather sipping or whenever you want something light and refreshing.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Cantaloupe or Melon-Infused Rum:
- Captain Morgan Tropical
- Don Q Passion
- Infuse Spirits Melon Rum (if available)
Club Soda:
- Fever-Tree Club Soda
- Q Club Soda
- Schweppes Soda Water
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 3 oz cantaloupe rum
- ¾ oz fresh lime juice
- ¾ oz simple syrup
- 3 oz club soda
- 2 sprigs fresh mint
- Garnish: mint sprig and cantaloupe slices
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, combine cantaloupe rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and mint.
- Add ice and shake firmly for about 10 seconds.
- Double strain over fresh ice in Collins glass to keep out mint pieces and pulp.
- Pour in the chilled club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint and two slices of cantaloupe.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Lightly slap the mint before adding it to the shaker to release its oils without bitterness.
- Use fresh, ripe cantaloupe to infuse your own rum for a stronger melon flavor.
- To boost aroma, gently stir the drink after pouring to mix the club soda and release the mint.
