Island fever

Thanks, Anne, for explaining the transfigurative properties of the lime. Does it extend beyond cocktails? For example, if I squeeze a lime over my morning eggs, do I create a Liberation Omelet? Is lime juice the secret to Freedom Fries?

The lime does a make a difference in the Cuba Libre, making a rum and Coke less oversweet. There's a nice balance to the flavors, and this is a perfect beach drink — pleasant to the taste, providing a cheery buzz while keeping you cool.

I imagine the daiquiri would have the same properties if I'd made it right. Instead of a blender, I shook the rum, Triple Sec and sweet and sour over ice, then poured it into a cocktail glass. Too much sweet and sour (but I followed directions!). I ended up with a syrupy, weak rum drink instead of what should have been a crisp, cooling cocktail. At some point I'll try to improve on that effort.

Cuba Libre
Manly or girly? Neither.
Appearance: Coke with lime.
Consistency: Fizzy.
Taste: All three flavors (Coke, rum, lime) are distinct and complement each other.
Stomach acceptance: It sure did.
Good drink for: Hot summer nights, tropical locations, toasting la revolucion!
Hangover factor: High
Would I actually order this in public? Sure.

Daiquiri
Manly or girly? Kinda girly.
Appearance: Neon, glow-in-the-dark green
Consistency: Mine was syrupy; not sure it was supposed to be
Taste: Weak and flat
Stomach acceptance: Unenthusiastic
Good drink for: If made right, high-end cocktail hours in tropical locations
Hangover factor: Low
Would I actually order this in public? Not likely.