Mojito Royale Recipe

Prepare clarified lime (if not using pre-made)

If you don't have clarified lime already, clarify fresh lime juice by mixing 4 oz lime juice with 2 oz neutral gelatin or using a quick coffee-filter clarification: allow juice to rest with a teaspoon of bentonite or chilled and filter through coffee filter until clear. Use 0.75 oz clarified lime in this recipe. (Skip if using ready clarified lime.)

Measure Don Q Cristal rum (2 tbs), clarified lime (0.75 oz) and simple syrup (0.5 oz) into a mixing tin.

Place 8 fresh mint leaves in the mixing tin with the measured liquids. Gently press and roll the leaves against the side of the tin with a muddler or the back of a bar spoon just enough to release aromatic oils without shredding the leaves (about 6–8 light presses).

Add 0.5 oz cooled, concentrated mint tisane (strong mint infusion) to deepen mint flavor without bitterness.

Add one drop of mint oil on top of the mixture to provide an immediate high-impact mint aroma. Stir once gently to disperse; do not over-agitate or the oil may emulsify excessively.

Add a handful of cracked ice (approx. 1 cup) to the mixing tin. Cap and shake vigorously for 8–10 seconds to chill and slightly dilute. If you prefer a cold-build (less aeration), stir with ice for 15–20 seconds instead.

Double-strain the cocktail into a chilled Collins or highball glass filled with fresh cracked ice to remove mint fragments and any particulates from the clarified lime.

Carefully top the drink with 2 oz Blanc de Blanc sparkling wine, pouring gently to preserve bubbles and create a layered top.

Finish with a light CO2 boost: if you have a soda siphon or tabletop carbonator, give a single short burst to the filled glass (one small charge) to add a fine-effervescence mouthfeel. If you don't have CO2 equipment, top with up to 2 oz chilled club soda instead. For service, leave a small head of bubbles.

Garnish with a fresh mint sprig: clap the mint between your hands to release aromatics and place upright into the drink. Optionally express a lime twist over the top for extra citrus oil.