Malibu Rum is a classic bottle on the back of every bar in America. This coconut-flavored rum comes in a variety of styles: the standard white bottle of Malibu coconut liqueur; the premium Malibu Black; and now, Malibu Red.

Malibu Red is a combination of Caribbean rum, tequila and, coconut liqueur. While popular wisdom says to never mix liquors in order to try to avoid a hangover, the addition of silver tequila to the Malibu Rum equation is simply inspired.

Smooth, exotic, and with a genuine coconut flavor, Malibu Red promises to be this summer’s hottest mixer. The tequila element is at the forefront of the Malibu Red flavor profile, while the coconut and rum serve to soften the edges and add complexity. This means that Malibu Red mixes well in a variety of different drinks. A variation on the traditional margarita, made with Malibu Red and a splash of orange juice standing in for tequila, will create an exotic crowd pleaser sure to please at any time of the year.

Another classic cocktail, the Cuba Libre, can be enhanced by substituting Malibu Red for the called-for rum. The classic Cuba Libre was created during the Spanish American War in Cuba around the turn of the 20^th century. Translating literally as “Free Cuba,” the Cuba Libre is said to be the second most popular cocktail in the world (although just which cocktail is number one is under some dispute). Just rum (traditionally Bacardi), cola, and a squeeze of lime, the Cuba Libre is easy to make at home, tasty, and slightly exotic.

By replacing the rum with Malibu Red, the Cuba Libre turns into the CoCo Cooler. Again, it’s easy to make, but this drink is quite literally one of the best and easiest mixed drinks that can be made. Even better, this is a drink that even the worst bartender can’t mess up. If you find yourself in a bar or restaurant and you don’t feel confident about the bar staff, order a CoCo Cooler, and rest easy knowing that you’re going to get a great cocktail.

The CoCo Cooler Cocktail

Makes one cocktail

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Malibu Red
• 4 oz cola
• lime squeeze

Directions:

1. In a double rocks glass (also known as a bucket), add first two ingredients.
2. Add ice
3. Stir briefly to combine.
4. Garnish with lime squeeze.
5. Serve.