Mandarin Mojito

The Mandarin Mojito is a refreshing take on the traditional Cuban cocktail, bringing a burst of citrus flavor to a well-loved classic. Fresh mandarin juice adds natural sweetness and a juicy, bright character that pairs beautifully with crisp white rum. Lime juice and fresh mint leaves provide the familiar Mojito freshness, while club soda tops it off with a light fizz that makes the drink lively and easy to enjoy. Served over ice, it is a colorful and flavorful cocktail that feels both cooling and uplifting. Perfect for hot afternoons, summer gatherings, or casual evenings, it’s a seasonal favorite.

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Tasting Notes

The Mandarin Mojito balances bright citrus with refreshing herbal tones. The natural sweetness of mandarin juice softens the sharpness of lime, while the white rum brings a subtle warmth without overpowering the drink. Fresh mint adds a cooling note that lifts the overall profile. The finish is crisp, thanks to the club soda, making each sip feel light and clean. This drink leans slightly sweet with a citrus-forward character, and the combination of mint and bubbles keeps the palate refreshed. It’s a gentle twist on a classic mojito with a softer, more rounded flavor.

Equipment and Glassware

To make a Mandarin Mojito, you’ll need a cocktail shaker, a muddler, and a jigger for accurate measuring. A fine mesh strainer is optional if you prefer a smoother pour without mint fragments. Use a bar spoon or stirrer to integrate the club soda gently into the finished drink. For serving, a highball or Collins glass is ideal, allowing plenty of room for ice, liquid, and garnish. A citrus juicer may also be useful for extracting fresh mandarin juice. Having all your tools ready will help you build the cocktail quickly while maintaining the proper chill and fizz.

Ingredients

• 2 oz white rum
• 2.5 oz mandarin juice
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• 3 oz club soda
• 3 mint sprigs, plus extra for garnish
• Mandarin wedge, for garnish

Instructions

• In a tall glass, gently muddle 3 mint sprigs with the simple syrup to release the oils.
• Add the rum, mandarin juice, and lime juice directly to the glass.
• Fill the glass with ice.
• Top with club soda and stir gently to combine.
• Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and a mandarin wedge.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh-squeezed mandarin juice for the cleanest flavor.
• Avoid over-muddling the mint, which can release bitterness.
• Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the drink colder longer.
• Add the club soda last and stir gently to preserve carbonation.
• If mandarins are out of season, tangerine or clementine juice is a good substitute.
• Try flavored club soda (like mandarin or lime) for extra dimension.
• For stronger mint presence, clap the garnish sprig between your hands before adding it.
• Clear ice will improve the drink’s appearance and dilute it more slowly.

When to Serve

The Mandarin Mojito is ideal for warm-weather occasions. It’s a perfect fit for outdoor gatherings like barbecues, picnics, or poolside afternoons. The citrus and mint combination makes it a refreshing pick for brunches or early evening cocktails. It also works well as a welcome drink at parties, thanks to its approachable flavor and cheerful presentation. The light alcohol content and bubbly texture make it easy to sip, even on hot days. Consider serving it at tropical-themed events or any occasion where a cooling, citrus-forward drink would shine.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• White Rum:
  • Bacardi Superior
  • Flor de Caña Extra Dry
  • Don Q Cristal
• Club Soda:
  • Q Mixers Club Soda
  • Fever-Tree
  • Schweppes

Similar Cocktails

• Kiwi Coconut Rum Punch
• Tamarind Mango Cocktail
• Frozen Watermelon Mojito
• Watermelon Raspberry Cooler
• Cucumber-Mint Mojito