A good cocktail should be refreshing, balanced, and easy to enjoy—and the Mariner checks all those boxes. This citrusy, minty drink is light, crisp, and perfect for warm days or anytime you want a little taste of summer. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and one thing I’ve learned is that fresh lime juice makes all the difference. Let’s get into how to make this simple yet delicious drink at home.
Mariner
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) white rum
- 1 oz (30ml) fresh lime juice
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup (or honey/agave for a twist)
- 0.5 oz (15ml) triple sec
- A small handful of fresh mint leaves
- Club soda, to top off
- Ice cubes, as needed
- Lime wheel and extra mint, for garnish
Equipment
- Highball glass (or a Collins glass)
- Muddler (or the back of a spoon)
- Bar spoon (or a regular spoon for stirring)
Method
- Add the mint leaves and simple syrup to your glass. Gently press them with a muddler or the back of a spoon—just enough to release the mint’s oils without crushing the leaves too much.
- Pour in the white rum, lime juice, and triple sec.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes, then stir well to combine everything.
- Top off with club soda and stir gently to keep the bubbles intact.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of mint. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Mariner
- Use fresh lime juice—it gives the drink a bright, zesty flavor that bottled juice just can’t match.
- Clap the mint leaves between your hands before adding them to the glass. This wakes up their aroma without making them bitter.
- Pour the club soda slowly to keep the fizz from disappearing too quickly.
Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun ways to customize your Mariner:
Tropical Mariner
- Add 1 oz (30ml) pineapple juice and a splash of coconut cream for a beachy twist.
Spiced Mariner
- Muddle a cinnamon stick with the mint, then add a dash of bitters for a warm, aromatic version.
Berry Mariner
- Muddle a few fresh berries (like raspberries or blackberries) with the mint for a fruity kick.
Virgin Mariner
- Skip the alcohol! Just mix lime juice, simple syrup, and club soda for a refreshing non-alcoholic drink.
Pairing Suggestions
The Mariner’s crisp, citrusy flavors make it a great match for fresh, light dishes. Here are a few pairings to try:
- Grilled seafood – The smoky char of grilled shrimp or fish pairs beautifully with the bright lime and mint.
- Fresh salads – A crisp green salad with a citrus dressing echoes the cocktail’s flavors.
- Spicy appetizers – The sweetness and acidity of the Mariner help balance out spicy foods like jalapeño poppers or spicy shrimp.
I love sipping a Mariner with a plate of grilled shrimp—it’s like a little getaway in a glass.
Common Questions
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh is best, but if you must, go for 100% lime juice with no additives.
What’s the best mint to use?
Spearmint works best—it’s mild and fresh without being too overpowering.
How do I make it less sweet?
Just reduce the simple syrup or swap it for a sugar-free alternative.
Should I crush the mint when muddling?
Nope! Just press gently to release the oils. Crushing too hard makes the mint taste bitter.
What foods should I avoid pairing with a Mariner?
Heavy, creamy dishes can overpower the drink. Stick to light, fresh flavors instead.
This cocktail is simple, refreshing, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you stick to the classic or try a variation, the Mariner is one drink that never disappoints. Cheers!
