The Cuba Libre, Reborn.

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In the mid-2000s, I split my time between South Florida and Costa Rica, mixing business meetings with barefoot beach walks along the Pacific. There, a Costa Rican business partner introduced me to the ultimate rum & cola ("Cuba Libre") - a blend of award-winning 4-year aged rum, a twist of lime, and Mexican cane sugar cola. 

That first sip - smooth, balanced, and full of oaky character - changed everything. I knew I had to can that experience and share it with the rest of the world.

In 2014, I launched Libre Rum & Cola® out of Miami Beach. Our small, scrappy team introduced a diet version of my craft cocktail that quickly caught on with boaters, bars, and beachgoers.

Just as we were preparing to release a cane sugar version, a near-fatal boating accident changed my life. Recovery was long, but by God’s grace I healed... and the dream stayed alive.

Five years later, I moved back to my hometown of Buffalo, New York, to spend more time with my mom. That time with family inspired a fresh start and a new brand name: Brad’s Blend of Rum & Cola® - a Founder's recipe brought to life!

It may sound ironic that a Caribbean-inspired cocktail is now handcrafted in snowy Buffalo... but maybe that’s exactly why it works. Sometimes you need a little taste of the tropics when winter won’t quit!  

That's the inspiration behind our trademark: "A Vacation in Your Hand®"

Today, Brad’s Blend is The Original Handcrafted Rum & Cola Cocktail, made with premium oak barrel-aged rum and my signature cola recipe crafted from a blend of 12 citrus oils and spices. From blending to canning, I personally oversee every batch to ensure every can tastes just right.

Now, Brad’s Blend is returning to Florida, where the journey first began, as we expand into new markets across the country.

Crack open a Brad’s Blend and taste the soul of Costa Rica, the heart of Buffalo, and a dream that refused to die. In a place where winter never seems to end, we decided to can a little sunshine ☀️ 

Thank you for supporting my journey - it means more than you’ll ever know.

Cheers,

Brad