The Cyclone cocktail is one of those drinks that instantly transports you to a breezy summer afternoon. It’s light, citrusy, and has a refreshing kick from mint and club soda. Originally stirred up in 1940s New Orleans, it was named after the swirling southern storms—but don’t worry, the only thing wild about this drink is how quickly it disappears.
Cyclone
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights with friends on the patio. It’s simple, zesty, and just sweet enough. If you’re looking for a drink that hits that perfect balance of cooling and lively, the Cyclone might just become your new favorite.
Ingredients
Servings: 1 cocktail
Prep time: 5 minutes
You’ll need:
– 2 oz (60 ml) white rum
– 1 oz (30 ml) freshly squeezed lime juice
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– 6–8 fresh mint leaves
– Club soda, to top
– Ice (crushed or cubed, your choice)
– Mint sprig, for garnish
What You’ll Need
– Shaker or a sturdy jar with a lid
– Muddler or the back of a spoon
– Highball glass (or a Collins glass)
– Strainer (optional but helpful)
Method
- In your shaker, gently muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup. You want to bruise the leaves just enough to release their oils—don’t mash them into bits or they’ll taste bitter.
- Add the white rum, lime juice, and a handful of ice. Cover and shake for about 15 seconds until everything’s nicely chilled.
- Fill your highball glass with fresh ice. Strain the mixture into the glass.
- Top it off with club soda. Give it a gentle stir.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint. Give the mint a quick slap between your palms first—it wakes up the aroma.
Tips & Tricks
– Always use fresh lime juice. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same bright flavor.
– If you don’t have simple syrup, you can make it quickly: just mix equal parts sugar and hot water until the sugar dissolves. Cool before using.
– Muddling mint too hard? You’ll know because it starts to smell grassy instead of minty. Go easy.
– Crushed ice keeps your drink colder and dilutes it a little slower—perfect for sipping.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can prep the lime juice and simple syrup ahead of time. Store both in the fridge in sealed containers. Mint should be used fresh, but you can rinse and pat it dry an hour or two before and keep it in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. If you make a larger batch (just multiply the ingredients), hold off on adding the club soda until you’re ready to serve so it stays bubbly.
Ingredient Swaps
– No white rum? Try light gold rum for a deeper flavor.
– Out of simple syrup? Honey or agave syrup work well—just keep in mind they’re a bit sweeter, so start with less and adjust to taste.
– Want a twist? Use a flavored sparkling water instead of plain club soda. Lime or berry flavors work great.
Serving Suggestions
The Cyclone shines with food that plays off its citrusy, minty notes.
Try it with:
– Grilled shrimp or fish tacos
– Fresh ceviche
– Charred veggie skewers
– Spicy dishes like Thai noodles or jerk chicken—the cool lime and mint balance out the heat
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: if you’re making it for a crowd, muddle the mint and syrup in a pitcher, then add the rum and lime juice. Store it in the fridge until guests arrive, then pour over ice and top with soda for each glass. Easy and impressive.
Variations
Tropical Cyclone
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) pineapple juice and swap white rum for coconut rum.
– Shake with the mint and syrup, strain, and top with soda.
Berry Cyclone
– Muddle a few raspberries or blackberries with the mint.
– Use raspberry syrup instead of simple syrup.
Ginger Cyclone
– Add 0.5 oz (15 ml) ginger syrup and top with a splash of ginger beer instead of club soda.
Virgin Cyclone
– Skip the rum and add extra club soda or flavored sparkling water.
– Still super refreshing, perfect for brunch or afternoon sipping.
FAQs
What’s in a Cyclone cocktail?
It’s a mix of white rum, lime juice, simple syrup, mint, and club soda—light and citrusy with a minty finish.
Can I make it without alcohol?
Yes! Just leave out the rum and add more soda. It’s just as refreshing.
What glass should I use?
A highball or Collins glass works best. You want something tall so the bubbles can rise and the mint aromas can linger.
How do I make it healthier?
Use honey or agave instead of simple syrup, or cut the sweetener in half. You can also add more soda to stretch it out.
What foods go well with it?
Seafood, grilled veggies, and spicy dishes are all great matches.
Can I make a batch for a party?
Absolutely. Mix the mint, syrup, rum, and lime juice in a pitcher. Chill, then pour over ice and top with soda when ready to serve.
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The Cyclone is one of those cocktails that’s easy to love and even easier to make your own. Whether you keep it classic or mix in tropical fruit, it’s the kind of drink that brings a little sunshine to your glass—no matter the weather.
