Love For Toby Rum & Brandy Cocktail – A Cherry-Lime Classic
A balanced blend of light rum, brandy, cherry brandy, and lime juice, Love For Toby delivers a bright, romantic cocktail with smooth depth and a tart cherry twist.

A smooth fusion of rum and brandy meets cherry brightness and lime zest — the Love For Toby Rum & Brandy Cocktail captures both warmth and vibrance in one glass.
Background
The origins of Love For Toby are uncertain, but its DNA is pure mid‑century cocktail culture. The dual‑brandy structure and hint of citrus place it alongside the Sidecar and Daiquiri — drinks designed for balance and charm. Its name, though romantic, suits its spirit: approachable, classic, and quietly sophisticated.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Light Rum – the crisp, clean base.
- Brandy – adds warmth and roundness.
- Cherry Brandy – provides a sweet fruit note and deep ruby hue.
- Lime Juice – sharpens the mix with bright acidity.
Equipment
Cocktail shaker, ice, strainer, and a chilled cocktail glass.
Bittersweet Harmony
The appeal of this drink lies in its simplicity. Rum and brandy share the stage — one light and lively, the other rich and grounded. Cherry brandy bridges them, while lime juice keeps everything fresh. The result is a tart‑sweet sip that feels timeless and personal.
Substitutions & Variations
- Rum Swap: Dark rum deepens the flavor and color.
- Fruit Change: Replace cherry brandy with raspberry or apricot liqueur for a twist.
- Citrus Play: Add orange bitters for depth or use lemon juice for a sharper finish.
- Mocktail: Mix cherry syrup, lime juice, and soda for a bright, alcohol‑free version.
Helpful Tips
- Always use freshly squeezed lime juice. Bottled juice dulls the flavor.
- Shake hard — the aeration lightens the texture.
- Garnish with a cherry or lime wheel to highlight color contrast.
- Serve before dessert; it pairs best with light fare like shrimp cocktail or fruit tarts.
Love For Toby Recipe
Type of Glass
Cocktail Glass
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
- 1/4 oz.
Directions
- Add light rum, brandy, cherry brandy, and lime juice to a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake vigorously until well chilled, about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry or lime wheel if desired.
A smooth, cherry-kissed sip that proves romance and balance can live in the same glass.