Top 10 Most Popular Cocktails Countdown:
1. Margarita: A Mexican Fiesta in a Glass
When it comes to the most ordered cocktail in the world, the Margarita takes the crown. So popular it even has a glass named after it! The resurgence in Tequila in recent years has made this classic concoction has been delighting taste buds for years. It’s perfect balance of tequila, Triple Sec, and lime juice. Variations of the Margarita in recent years include the spicy Margarita and the frozen Margarita. The Margarita is a drink that transports you to sandy beaches and vibrant fiestas, capturing the spirit of Mexico in every sip. While there are countless variations of this cocktail, the traditional recipe remains a favourite among enthusiasts. To elevate your Margarita experience, try the Tommy’s Margarita, a twist on the classic that swaps Triple Sec for agave syrup and usually served in a short glass over ice compared to the traditional straight up Margarita glass.
2. Cosmopolitan: Sipping Glamour in a Martini Glass
Made famous by the hit TV show Sex and the City, the Cosmopolitan has become a symbol of sophistication and glamour. This deliciously sweet cocktail combines vodka, Cointreau, cranberry juice, and a splash of lime, creating a vibrant and refreshing drink that’s as stylish as it is tasty. Originally created by Cheryl Cook, the Martini Queen of South Beach, in the 1980s, the Cosmo has become a classic in its own right. Its appealing pink hue and delightful flavor make it a go-to choice for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their evening.
3. Daiquiri: A Cuban Delight
Cocktails play on human emotions and when you think of a Daiquiri, you may picture sunny Cuban beaches and crystal-clear waters. This tropical delight has become the most ordered rum cocktail worldwide, capturing the essence of the Caribbean in every sip. The classic Daiquiri is a simple yet satisfying blend of rum, citrus juice, and sugar, resulting in a refreshing and well-balanced flavour profile. Garnished with a lime slice, the Daiquiri is a timeless cocktail that never fails to transport you to a state of relaxation and bliss.
4. Gimlet: A Sharp Refresher
If you’re looking for a cocktail that packs a punch and is on the less sweet side, the Gimlet is the drink for you. This simple yet sophisticated cocktail combines gin and lime juice, creating a sharp and refreshing flavour that’s perfect for those warm summer evenings. Legend has it that the Gimlet was invented by Surgeon Admiral Sir Thomas Gimlette of the Royal Navy, who added lime cordial to his sailors’ daily ration of gin to prevent scurvy. Today, the Gimlet remains a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts, offering a crisp and invigorating experience with every sip.
5. Manhattan: A Classic Blend of Elegance and Flavour
The Manhattan is a cocktail that has withstood the test of time, earning its place as one of the greatest cocktails ever made. This timeless blend of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters is the epitome of sophistication and elegance. First mixed in 1870 at the Manhattan Club by Jennie Jerome, the mother of Winston Churchill, the cocktail quickly gained popularity and has remained a classic ever since. Served over ice or straight up and usually garnished with a cherry, the Manhattan is a drink that exudes class and refinement. The most underrated cocktail on our list if you ask our humble opinion!
6. Negroni: A Punchy Aperitivo
Synonymous with Italian culture and style, the Negroni is a cocktail that screams class. This bittersweet concoction, made with equal parts gin, vermouth, and Campari, is the perfect way to awaken your taste buds before a meal. Served over ice and garnished with a slice of orange, the Negroni is a vibrant and captivating cocktail that has become a staple on menus around the world. Its distinctive flavour profile makes it a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast.
7. Old Fashioned: Timeless Personified In A Glass
Staying true to its name, this classic cocktail dates back over 200 years and is a testament to if it ain’t broke don’t fix it. Combining whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of orange peel, the Old Fashioned is a drink that highlights the beauty of its individual components. Served over ice and with an orange zest garnish. This cocktail is a timeless favourite that continues to gain popularity with its refined and complex flavours.
8. Espresso Martini: A Caffeinated Delight
For coffee lovers seeking a cocktail with a kick, the Espresso Martini is the perfect choice. This classic combines vodka, coffee liqueur and freshly brewed espresso, resulting in a rich and creamy flavour profile. Created by bartender Dick Bradsell in the 1980s, this cocktail has become a favourite among those looking to enjoy the best of both worlds – the boldness of coffee and the indulgence of a well-crafted cocktail. Served with a frothy top layer, the Espresso Martini is a true delight for the senses. Have a google on Kate Moss and Espresso Martini’s for a fun back story!
9. Pornstar Martini: Modern Classic
If you’re in the mood for a tropical escape, look no further than the Pornstar Martini. This modern classic cocktail combines vanilla vodka, fresh passion fruit, passion fruit liqueur, and lime juice, creating a vibrant and exotic flavour profile. Served with a shot of champagne or prosecco on the side to enhance its sweet profile, the Pornstar Martini, with its deep foam creates a a visually stunning cocktail that exudes confidence and indulgence. It has quickly become a go-to choice for those seeking a taste of paradise in a glass. The newest classic in our top 10 most popular cocktails list.
10. Mimosa: A Brunch Staple
No brunch is complete without a glass of Mimosa in hand. This classic cocktail, made with champagne and chilled orange juice, is the perfect way to start the day on a refreshing note. Invented by Frank Meier in 1925 at The Ritz Hotel in Paris, the Mimosa has since become the go-to brunch cocktail worldwide. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a leisurely weekend meal, the Mimosa is a timeless favourite that never fails to add a touch of sparkle to any gathering. Also the only sparkling cocktail in our top 10 most popular cocktails list.
Got You Dreaming Of A Perfect Cocktail?
Our team have created countless of these classic cocktails and feature many of them on our cocktail bar hire packages. Fancy enhancing these timeless tipples with a twist or think you got the perfect event to have some perfect cocktails at? The team are at your service!