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The world of cocktails is as vibrant and diverse as ever. Has #teamMytour tried them all yet? Join Mytour to explore the 28 most iconic cocktails from different countries!
Have you ever wondered how to truly experience the taste of a new destination through its food and drink? Not only through meals, but beverages also offer a wonderful way to understand the unique characteristics of each culture. And when it comes to local drinks, cocktails always come first. These aren't just delicious thirst-quenchers—they tell the stories of traditions, lifestyles, and culinary creativity.
Get ready for your next independent travel adventure by exploring signature cocktails from across the globe with this list of the world's most famous and delicious cocktails!
1. Australia – Pavlova Cocktail
As a young nation, Australia certainly has much to boast about – from grand theme parks to the refined Pavlova dessert. This meringue-based dessert has a crispy outer shell and a soft, smooth center, typically decorated with whipped cream and fresh fruit. The Pavlova Cocktail was inspired by this famous treat.
Rinni Kato, a bartender from Brisbane, created the Pavlova Cocktail – a drink made with Belvedere vodka combined with peach-flavored brandy and a hint of sourness, topped with a little whipped cream.
2. Bahamas – Goombay Smash Cocktail
You can't miss the favorite cocktail of the Bahamas, home to some of the most intriguing beaches in the world. Goombay Smash is a classic, tropical-style cocktail that’s especially popular in the Caribbean. Its sweet, refreshing taste with a hint of spiciness will transport you to white sand beaches, golden sun, and crystal-clear waters.
The name "Goombay Smash" comes from the Goombay Summer Festival in the Bahamas. Miss Emily, the owner of Blue Bee Bar, created this cocktail around the time of the festival, and it quickly became a phenomenon. Although the original recipe remains a secret, Goombay Smash is widely enjoyed and served around the world.
3. Canada – Caesar Cocktail
The Caesar Cocktail is believed to have been created in the 1960s in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. It’s said that bartender Walter Chell accidentally invented the drink while trying to make a Canadian version of the Bloody Mary. This is possibly the most unusual cocktail on the list, and it’s a must-try when you visit Canada.
The Caesar Cocktail is a refined blend of vodka, Clamato juice – a mix of tomato juice and clam broth, a dash of fiery Tabasco sauce, and Worcestershire sauce aged for 18 months. The Caesar Cocktail is usually served in a highball or Collins glass, garnished with a celery stick and a slice of lime or olive, creating a stylish presentation.
4. Denmark – First Aid Cocktail
The First Aid Cocktail is a unique and beloved drink in Denmark, especially popular at Bar Curfew in Copenhagen, which is famous for its distinct interior design. With a refreshing and elegant flavor, the First Aid Cocktail is not just a thirst-quenching beverage but also an exciting experience for cocktail enthusiasts.
The First Aid Cocktail strikes a perfect balance with the mild tartness of grape juice, the spicy kick of gin, and the refreshing taste of aloe vera. This combination creates a drink that's incredibly smooth and revitalizing. The cocktail is typically served in a tall cocktail glass and garnished with a sprig of mint or a slice of lime.
5. Estonia – Four Seasons Cocktail
Estonia doesn't have a traditional cocktail of its own, but it is home to the world champion bartender, Regeri Zoo. Inspired by the nature of Northern Europe, Zoo created a cocktail that embodies the four seasons, blending tropical fruit flavors with warm spices like orange, ginger, lemon, and lemongrass.
The Four Seasons Cocktail offers a rich sensory experience. You'll experience the freshness of summer, the warmth of autumn, the spiciness of winter, and the sweetness of spring, all combined in one glass. It truly deserves to be the drink representing the four seasons of Estonia.
6. Finland – Moomin Cocktail
Finland is always on the radar when it comes to cocktails. The winning cocktail from the 2016 Helsinki bartending competition was the Moomin Cocktail. Inspired by Finland's famous Moomin character, this drink is more than just a beverage; it's a cultural experience that transports you to the land of a thousand lakes.
The Moomin Cocktail offers a refreshing taste, balancing the tartness of lemon, the subtle spiciness of gin, and the delicate aroma of basil. This drink is typically served in a tall cocktail glass, garnished with a slice of yellow lemon, butterfly pea flowers, and mint leaves, creating a visually stunning presentation.
7. Germany – Asbach Alexander Cocktail
Asbach Alexander is a classic cocktail from Germany, renowned for its rich, warm chocolate flavor. The drink is named after Asbach Uralt, a premium German brandy. First created in the early 20th century, Asbach Alexander quickly became one of the most beloved drinks in bars and restaurants across Germany.
Asbach Alexander offers a sweet, creamy chocolate flavor combined with the subtle spice of Cognac. When tasted, you'll experience a delicate blend of ingredients, creating a truly delightful sensory experience. This cocktail is typically served in a coupe glass or a traditional cocktail glass.
8. Hungary – Puszta Cocktail
The Puszta Cocktail is a signature drink from Hungary, carrying the traditional flavors of the country. The name "Puszta" refers to the vast plains of Hungary, known for its grasslands and farms. This cocktail is a symphony of Hungary's distinctive spirits, resulting in a unique and bold flavor.
The Puszta Cocktail delivers a powerful, intense taste with the spicy warmth of Pálinka, the subtle bitterness of Unicum, and the light sweetness of fruit juice. The flavor profile of this cocktail may vary depending on the type of fruit used to make the Pálinka and other spirits. The Puszta Cocktail is typically served in a stunning rocks glass, guaranteed to captivate your senses.
9. Italy – Angelo Azzurro Cocktail
True to its name, Angelo Azzurro – the Blue Angel, this Italian cocktail is eye-catching with its vibrant color and refreshing taste. Although the exact origin of the cocktail remains unclear, Angelo Azzurro quickly became popular in bars throughout Italy.
Angelo Azzurro strikes a perfect balance between the dryness of gin, the sweetness of triple sec, and the refreshing citrus flavor of Blue Curaçao. This cocktail is typically served in a martini glass, garnished with a slice of lemon or an orange peel. With each sip, you'll experience a refreshing burst, a touch of sweetness, and a revitalizing flavor.
10. Japan – Matcha Highball Cocktail
The Matcha Highball is an inventive cocktail blending Japanese matcha tea with the refreshing crispness of a Western highball. It’s an excellent choice for green tea lovers looking for a unique, exciting beverage. The Matcha Highball offers a light bitterness from the matcha, a mild sweetness from soda, and a subtle tang from the lemon.
This cocktail is typically served in a tall highball glass, garnished with a sprig of mint or a slice of lemon. It can be enjoyed as a pre-meal drink or as a refreshing beverage after dining.
11. Kenya – Dawa Cocktail
The Dawa Cocktail is a signature drink from Kenya, first crafted at the Carnivore Restaurant in Nairobi. It combines vodka, sugar, and fresh lime juice, accompanied by a small stick of honey. The name 'Dawa' suggests its thirst-quenching ability and the refreshing sensation it provides with every sip.
The Dawa Cocktail was born from the idea of improving the Brazilian classic Caipirinha. Originally, Cachaça, a sugarcane spirit, was used for the drink. However, bartenders at Carnivore noticed that Cachaça caused a headache the next morning. As a result, they decided to substitute it with vodka, a more common and easily available spirit.
12. Lithuania – Lithuanian Daiquiri
For cocktail enthusiasts, trying the classic Bacardi Daiquiri is a must, but the Lithuanian version of the Daiquiri is a creative twist you shouldn't miss. Created during the Bacardí Legacy competition in 2013, this cocktail quickly captured the attention of cocktail lovers worldwide.
The Lithuanian Daiquiri blends the flavors of raspberries with lemongrass, lime, and basil, alongside rum. This combination creates a complex flavor profile that is both familiar and novel, leaving drinkers intrigued and delighted by the experience.
13. Mexico – Paloma Cocktail
The Paloma Cocktail is a refreshing and invigorating drink from Mexico. The name 'Paloma' translates to 'dove' in Spanish. While there are several theories about the origin of the name, the most popular one suggests it was named after a famous Mexican folk song.
According to Bon Appetit magazine, 'Paloma has dethroned Margarita to become Mexico's favorite cocktail.' Paloma is a cocktail bursting with fresh fruit flavors, featuring the distinctive sweet-sour taste of grapefruit and tequila. Simple yet alluring, Paloma quickly gained widespread popularity.
14. Nigeria – Chapman Cocktail
Chapman originates from Nigeria, and although there is no official story behind its creation, it has become an integral part of the culinary culture of this West African nation. With its sweet, slightly tart, and refreshing taste, Chapman is the perfect choice to cool off on a hot summer day or to be served at parties, festivals, and special events in Nigeria.
Chapman comes in various variations depending on personal taste. You can add fresh fruits like strawberries, pineapple, or mango to enhance the flavor. Additionally, you can substitute soda with fruit juice for a less fizzy version of Chapman.
15. Oman – White Wonder Cocktail
Nothing is more relaxing than unwinding on the pristine beaches of Oman, with the cool sea breeze and watching the sunset painted in romantic shades of pink and orange. At such a moment, treat yourself to a glass of the famous White Wonder cocktail from Oman, a country with a rich history and a vibrant culinary culture.
The flavor of the White Wonder is truly an unforgettable experience. With every sip, you'll savor the delicate blend of the sweet coconut, the fresh tartness of lime, and the subtle heat of various spices. A refreshing chill spreads across your mouth, leaving you craving for more.
16. Peru – Pisco Sour Cocktail
Pisco Sour is a cocktail originating from Peru, made with Pisco – a strong liquor distilled from grapes – combined with fresh lime juice, simple syrup, egg white, and a splash of Angostura bitters. The fusion of these ingredients creates a perfectly balanced, tangy-sweet, aromatic flavor that's irresistible.
Pisco Sour is typically served in a cocktail glass, garnished with a few dashes of Angostura bitters. When you take a sip, the smooth foam melts away on your tongue, followed by a rich, tangy-sweet taste that slowly dissolves in your mouth. To fully appreciate the flavor of Pisco Sour, it's best to sip it slowly, savoring each moment.
17. France – Death in the Afternoon Cocktail
The name 'Death in the Afternoon' is inspired by the novel of the same name by writer Ernest Hemingway. In the story, the protagonist, a Russian countess, regularly drank absinthe mixed with champagne in the afternoon. Hemingway took this concept and turned it into his own signature cocktail, infused with his passion for fine spirits.
The flavor of Death in the Afternoon is unique, blending the bitterness of absinthe, the light sweetness of champagne, and a hint of herbal aroma. As you sip, you'll experience a refreshing sensation and a gentle, mild buzz. This cocktail is closely associated with Hemingway and the bohemian lifestyle of writers and artists in 1920s Paris.
18. Russia – Russian Spring Punch Cocktail
Finally, we arrive at the homeland of vodka and many irresistible cocktails! Russian Spring Punch can be likened to a symphony of Russia’s spring season, where strong spirits, fresh fruits, and aromatic spices come together in a delicate harmony. The fragrance of the spices adds warmth, evoking memories of winter.
Russian Spring Punch originated in the 19th century and quickly became a favorite among Russian aristocrats. You can customize the cocktail to your liking by altering the fruits, spices, or spirits used.
19. Singapore – Singapore Sling Cocktail
The Singapore Sling is a classic cocktail known worldwide, deeply tied to the image of the island nation of Singapore. Created in the early 20th century at the Long Bar of Raffles Hotel, the Singapore Sling swiftly became a symbol of the country, adored by many people across the globe.
The Singapore Sling boasts a sweet, mildly sour, and aromatic flavor. Its delicate blend of various spirits, tropical fruit juices, and spices creates a highly appealing and easy-to-drink cocktail. The pale pink hue of the drink also brings a refreshing and romantic vibe.
20. Thailand - Siam Sunrays Cocktail
Siam Sunrays is a cocktail that embodies the distinctive flavors of Thailand, often described as "Thailand in a glass." Created in 2009, this drink rapidly became a symbol of Thai tourism, representing an exciting fusion of traditional and modern flavors.
The Siam Sunrays cocktail was inspired by familiar flavors found in Thai cuisine, such as chili, ginger, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, and paired with coconut liquor, a shot of vodka, soda, and sugar. This combination delivers a fascinating taste experience, reminiscent of Thailand’s vibrant street food culture.
21. United Kingdom - Dubonnet Cocktail
Although not a traditional British cocktail, Dubonnet remains a top choice among the British people because of its unique flavor, and because Queen Elizabeth II famously declared it her favorite drink. The cocktail is primarily made with gin, and the Queen enjoys it with a slice of lemon before each of her lunches.
The primary ingredients of Dubonnet include red wine, quinine, herbs, and spices like orange peel, coffee beans, cinnamon, and chamomile. These components create a complex flavor profile that is both mildly bitter and sweet, providing a unique tasting experience.
22. Venice (Italy) - Bellini Cocktail
Bellini is an elegant and refined cocktail closely associated with the romantic city of Venice. With the sweet, refreshing taste of peach combined with the effervescence of Prosecco, Bellini has become a symbol of the Italian summer.
The Bellini cocktail is believed to have originated between the 1930s and 1940s at the famous Harry's Bar in Venice, Italy. Its creator, Giuseppe Cipriani, was inspired by the vibrant pink color of fresh peaches and named the drink after the renowned Venetian painter Giovanni Bellini.
23. Washington D.C - Gin Rickey Cocktail
The Gin Rickey is a classic cocktail tied to Washington D.C., USA. With a simple yet captivating flavor, Gin Rickey has become the city’s favorite drink. Its taste is refreshingly balanced, combining the tartness of lime with the strength of gin and the crispness of soda.
Truyền thuyết kể rằng, Gin Rickey được ra đời vào cuối thế kỷ 19 tại một quán bar ở Washington D.C. Người ta cho rằng, một vị khách quen tên là Joe Rickey đã yêu cầu bartender pha chế cho mình một loại thức uống mới lạ và sảng khoái. Từ đó, Gin Rickey ra đời và nhanh chóng trở nên phổ biến.
24. Cuba - Mojito Cocktail
Lập danh sách các loại cocktail ngon trên thế giới mà không đề cập Mojito thì quả là thiếu sót! Mojito được biết đến với hương vị tươi mát, sảng khoái từ sự kết hợp giữa vị chua của chanh, vị ngọt của đường, mùi thơm nồng của bạc hà và chút cay nồng của rượu rum.
Mojito có nguồn gốc từ Cuba, nơi nó được coi là một loại thuốc chữa bệnh truyền thống. Người ta tin rằng Mojito có thể giúp giảm đau và hạ sốt. Sau đó, thức uống này trở nên phổ biến trong giới thủy thủ và dần trở thành một biểu tượng của văn hóa Cuba.
25. Puerto Rico - Piña Colada Cocktail
Piña Colada là loại cocktail có mặt khắp nơi trên thế giới, đặc biệt được yêu thích trong các ngày hè nóng bức. Với hương vị ngọt ngào, béo ngậy của dừa kết hợp cùng vị chua thanh của dứa và độ cay nhẹ của rượu rum, Pina Colada mang đến một cảm giác thư giãn, tươi mát.
Although the exact origins of the Piña Colada remain disputed, it is commonly believed to have originated in Puerto Rico. There are several stories about who first created the Piña Colada, but all agree that it has become an iconic drink representing Puerto Rican culture.
26. Zimbabwe - Negroni Zimbabwe
Negroni Zimbabwe is a unique twist on the classic Negroni cocktail, offering a refreshing new take on this beloved drink. While the traditional Negroni is known for its balanced blend of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, Negroni Zimbabwe adds a fun variation, often featuring fresh fruits or alternative spirits to create a distinctive flavor.
There is no definitive origin for the creation of Negroni Zimbabwe. However, much like other cocktail variations, it is likely the result of bartenders' creativity. The addition of local or seasonal ingredients has led to a version of the Negroni that carries the personal touch of each bartender.
27. Vietnam - Iced Tea Cocktail
Iced tea, a simple and beloved drink in Vietnam, has been elevated into a cocktail that perfectly embodies Saigon's spirit. The Iced Tea Cocktail retains the familiar refreshing taste of iced tea but surprises with a perfect balance of tangy lime, the gentle sweetness of honey, and the light bitterness of gin infused with Da Lat black tea.
The Iced Tea Cocktail is a perfect example of the boundless creativity of Vietnamese bartenders. Though its recipe may seem simple, it delivers an explosion of refreshment, much like the bold, generous spirit of the people of Saigon. What could be better than enjoying the sunset from a rooftop while sipping on a refreshing Iced Tea Cocktail? #teamMytour
28. Vietnam - Mekong Delta Cocktail
Another masterpiece from Anan Saigon is the Mekong Delta Cocktail, which captures the essence of Vietnam's lush, water-filled southern region. This drink is not just a refreshing beverage but a journey through the unique flavors of the Mekong Delta.
Inspired by the vast rice fields and tranquil rivers of the Mekong Delta, this cocktail offers a truly delightful culinary experience. Each sip brings the warm fragrance of cilantro, the sweet smoothness of rice wine, the zesty freshness of lime, and the spicy kick of Rum and Gin, creating a modern and sophisticated drink.
Trying to conquer all 28 of these cocktails might make your wallet feel a little lighter. So, why not save on travel costs while exploring the world with Mytour? What are you waiting for? Head to Mytour now to plan your next destination in a convenient and budget-friendly way. Plus, there are plenty of exciting food experiences and dining vouchers waiting for you to discover. With Mytour, worry-free travel is a breeze. Check out the useful travel tips from Mytour’s Blog today.
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