The 10 Most Popular Cocktails in Australia Revealed

Australia has a vibrant and diverse cocktail culture, with each region having its own unique take on popular drinks. In this article, we’ll explore the top ten most popular Australian cocktails. From the contemporary Espresso Martini to the classic Pina Colada, we’ve got it all covered. Grab your favourite tipple and get ready to shake, stir and sip your way through these amazing concoctions!

Recent research has found that Espresso Martinis and Margaritas are Australia’s most popular cocktails. Data shows Espresso Martinis experienced a 300% increase in popularity in early 2021, overtaking the classic favourites; Mojitos and Pina Coladas.

What are the 10 most popular cocktails?

1. Espresso Martini

Espresso martinis are the most popular cocktail in Australia, and for good reason. They are a delicious combination of espresso, vodka, and coffee liqueur that can quickly energise any night out. The espresso gives the cocktail a bold and robust flavour, while the vodka and liqueur add a bit of sweetness. The result is a smooth and creamy, irresistible drink.

When ordering an espresso martini, the bartender will typically use freshly brewed espresso, although some bars may use pre-made espresso shots. The espresso is then combined with vodka, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup, and shaken vigorously with ice until it is chilled and frothy. The martini is then strained into a chilled martini glass, and garnished with coffee beans or a chocolate stick.

2. Margarita

The Margarita is one of the most popular drinks in the world, and Australia is no exception. The Margarita has been around since the 1930s and is widely popular due to its sweet and sour flavour. This classic drink is made with tequila, lime juice, and Cointreau or triple sec and is usually served in a margarita glass with a salted rim and a lime wedge.

The key to a great Margarita is quality ingredients. Tequila is the base of the drink and should be 100% agave tequila. The orange liqueur can be either Cointreau or Grand Marnier. Freshly squeezed lime juice is a must, as it provides the perfect tartness to the drink.

3. Mojito

The classic Mojito is made with white rum, fresh lime juice, sugar syrup, and mint leaves. This combination of ingredients creates a sweet, tart, and minty flavour that is sure to please any palette.

Mojitos can be served on the rocks, blended, or shaken. If served on the rocks, the recipe is simple and can be completed in minutes. The lime juice is added to a glass filled with ice, followed by the rum, sugar syrup, and mint leaves. All ingredients should be muddled together with a muddler or spoon and then topped with soda water.

4. Pina Colada

Pina coladas are a delicious and refreshing beverage that can be enjoyed anytime. They are made with pineapple juice, coconut cream, and white rum. This tropical drink has become a favourite among many, and its popularity is growing with each passing day.

The unique flavour of the Pina Colada comes from the combination of ingredients. The pineapple juice provides the sweetness while the coconut cream gives the drink its creamy texture. The white rum adds a touch of warmth and depth of flavour. All of these flavours combine to create a delicious and refreshing drink that can be enjoyed any time of the year.

5. Classic Martini 

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Martinis are a classic and timeless cocktail that have been around for decades. For many, the thought of a Martini brings to mind the iconic image of James Bond, sipping a dry gin Martini “shaken, not stirred.” But there is much more to the Martini than the classic gin and vermouth drink.

When it comes to creating a Martini, the possibilities are endless. Gin is the classic spirit used in a Martini, but vodka is also an excellent choice. The vermouth can be dry, sweet, or even flavoured, and there are a multitude of garnishes you can use, including olives, lemons, limes, and even onions.

6. Negroni

The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail made with equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. It's a simple but striking combination that results in a refreshingly bitter and complex flavour. The drink has been around since the early 19th century and is now enjoyed around the world.

The flavour of a Negroni is complex and unique. The bittersweet taste of Campari is balanced out by the sweet vermouth, while the gin adds a herbal, botanical layer to the drink. The result is a combination of flavours that is both refreshing and strong.

7. Long Island Ice Tea

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Long Island Ice Tea cocktails have become increasingly popular in Australia over the past few years. The classic drink is a combination of vodka, tequila, white rum, triple sec, and gin, topped off with a splash of cola. This delicious concoction has become a staple of many bars and social gatherings in Australia.

Long Island Ice Teas are also popular for their versatility, as they can be mixed with a variety of other ingredients to create a unique taste. For example, some people choose to add cranberry juice, pineapple juice, or lime juice to their Long Island Ice Tea cocktail.

8. Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz is a classic Italian cocktail made with just 3 ingredients; Prosecco, Aperol and a splash of soda water. It's a light, refreshing and easy-to-make drink perfect for any occasion. The combination of the sweet and bitter Aperol liqueur, dry Prosecco and sparkling soda water creates a unique flavour profile that's sure to please.

The Aperol Spritz has been around since the early 1900s. It was first created in Padua, Italy and was meant to be a refreshing and light drink to enjoy during the summer months. Over the years it has become popular in bars and restaurants all over the world.

9. Whiskey Sour

The whiskey sour is a classic cocktail that dates back to the mid-1800s. It’s a simple mix of whiskey, lemon juice, and sugar, and it’s been a favourite among whiskey lovers for centuries.

To make a whiskey sour, start by combining 2 ounces of whiskey, 1 ounce of fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake the ingredients until they are well blended and strain the drink into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. You can garnish the drink with a maraschino cherry or a lemon wedge if you like.

10. Old Fashioned

The old fashioned cocktail is a classic drink that has been enjoyed since the late 19th century. It is traditionally made with whiskey, bitters, sugar, and a twist of citrus. This drink has a long and interesting history, and it continues to be a favourite of many cocktail enthusiasts.

The old fashioned cocktail is known for its strong, bold flavours. The whiskey provides the base of the drink, while the bitters and sugar give it a unique sweetness and complexity. The citrus twist adds a unique flavour and aroma that makes the drink even more enjoyable.

What cocktails are from Australia?

Though Australian’s most popular cocktails originate from many parts of the world, there are a couple of lesser-known cocktails invented in Australia.

1. Blow My Skull

Buried within the English and Australian Cookery Book from 1894 is the ‘notoriously potent’ cocktail coined the ‘Blow My Skull’. Made with rum, ale, brandy, boiling water, lime or lemon juice and sugar, it would appear this Australian punch recipe is aptly named.

2. Japanese Slipper

Made in Melbourne, Australia in 1984, is a cocktail known as the Japanese Slipper. To make this delicious, vibrant green concoction, all you’ll need is equal parts Midori, Cointreau and lemon juice.

Conclusion

The top 10 most popular cocktails in Australia comprise a variety of classic and modern concoctions from around the world. It’s no surprise the Espresso Martini takes first place, followed closely by a global favourite; the Margarita.

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