Introduction
Refreshing beverages are synonymous with summer, so as we get ready for summer 2024, let's take a look at the top beverage trends that are expected to be popular nationwide. We've poured over the best-in-class analytics from restaurants around the nation to determine the most popular drinks that patrons in the US will be enjoying this summer, ranging from traditional cocktails to inventive creations.
Top 10 drinks for the summer
1. Cosmopolitan (Cosmo)
The Cosmopolitan, affectionately known as the "Cosmo," stands out as a quintessential cocktail choice, particularly during the summer months. Its popularity stems not only from its delightful taste but also from its vibrant presentation and cultural significance.
One of the most striking features of the Cosmopolitan is its visually appealing appearance. Served in a classic cocktail or martini glass, the drink's vivid pink hue, derived from the cranberry juice, immediately captures the eye. This vibrant color, often complemented by a twist of lime or a wedge of orange, creates a drink that is as visually enticing as it is delicious.
In terms of taste, the Cosmopolitan offers a perfect balance of flavors. The combination of vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, and orange liqueur results in a cocktail that is both sweet and tart, with a hint of citrusy brightness. This well-rounded flavor profile makes the Cosmopolitan a refreshing and enjoyable drink, particularly on a hot summer day.
Beyond its aesthetic and taste appeal, the Cosmopolitan also holds a special place in cocktail history and popular culture. The drink rose to prominence in the 1990s, thanks in part to its frequent appearance on the hit TV show "Sex and the City." The show's characters, particularly Carrie Bradshaw, often enjoyed Cosmopolitans during their outings, helping to popularize the drink among viewers and in bars and restaurants around the world.
Today, the Cosmopolitan remains a beloved cocktail choice for many, particularly during the summer months when its refreshing qualities are most appreciated. Whether enjoyed at a rooftop bar, a beachside restaurant, or a backyard barbecue, the Cosmopolitan continues to captivate drinkers with its delightful taste, striking appearance, and cultural allure.
2. Margarita
The Margarita is an iconic and timeless cocktail that has become synonymous with summer refreshment. This beloved drink is celebrated for its simplicity, yet its flavor profile is complex and satisfying, making it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts around the world.
At its core, the Margarita is a tequila-based cocktail that typically consists of three main ingredients: tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur (usually triple sec). The combination of these ingredients creates a perfect harmony of flavors – the earthy notes of the tequila, the tartness of the lime juice, and the sweetness of the orange liqueur. This balance is further enhanced by serving the Margarita in a glass rimmed with salt, which adds a savory element to each sip.
One of the Margarita's most appealing qualities is its versatility. While the classic Margarita is made with silver tequila, there are countless variations that cater to different preferences. For example, using reposado or añejo tequila can add depth and complexity to the drink, while adding fresh fruit purees or flavored liqueurs can create new and exciting flavor profiles.
The Margarita's popularity can be attributed to its ability to evoke a sense of fun and relaxation. Whether enjoyed at a beachside bar, a backyard barbecue, or a festive gathering, the Margarita has a way of instantly transporting drinkers to a carefree state of mind. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it the perfect accompaniment to warm summer days and balmy evenings.
3. Negroni
The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail that has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, thanks in part to its complex and intriguing flavor profile. This iconic drink is a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts for its bold and bitter taste, which sets it apart from more traditional sweet cocktails.
The Negroni is made with equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, garnished with an orange peel. This simple yet elegant combination of ingredients results in a cocktail that is both sophisticated and satisfying. The gin provides a strong botanical base, while the Campari adds a bitter and herbal note. The sweet vermouth helps to balance out the bitterness, adding a touch of sweetness and complexity to the drink.
One of the most appealing aspects of the Negroni is its versatility. While the classic recipe calls for equal parts of each ingredient, there is room for experimentation and customization. Some bartenders choose to adjust the ratios to suit their preferences, while others add a splash of soda water or a different type of bitters to create a unique variation.
The Negroni's history is as rich and complex as its flavor. Legend has it that the cocktail was invented in Florence, Italy, in the early 20th century when Count Camillo Negroni asked his bartender to strengthen his favorite cocktail, the Americano, by adding gin instead of soda water. The result was a new and innovative drink that soon became a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Today, the Negroni is celebrated around the world for its bold and distinctive taste. It has inspired countless variations and adaptations, each adding its own twist to this timeless classic. Whether enjoyed at a trendy cocktail bar or made at home, the Negroni continues to captivate drinkers with its complex flavors and intriguing history.
4. Martini
The Martini is perhaps one of the most iconic and enduring cocktails in the world, known for its elegance, simplicity, and timeless appeal. This classic cocktail has evolved over the years but has remained a symbol of sophistication and style, making it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
Traditionally, a Martini is made with gin and dry vermouth, stirred or shaken with ice, and served in a chilled cocktail glass. The proportions of gin to vermouth can vary depending on personal preference, with some preferring a drier Martini with less vermouth and others opting for a more balanced ratio. The cocktail is often garnished with an olive or a twist of lemon peel, adding a touch of visual appeal and aromatic complexity.
One of the key elements of a Martini is its versatility. While the classic Martini is made with gin, vodka can also be used as a base spirit, resulting in a slightly different flavor profile. Additionally, the choice of vermouth and garnish can be customized to suit individual tastes, allowing for endless variations and experimentation.
The Martini's history is as rich and storied as its flavor. It is believed to have originated in the late 19th century, with its exact origins shrouded in mystery and legend. Some stories claim that the Martini was first created in the United States, while others suggest it may have been inspired by a similar drink in Europe. Regardless of its origins, the Martini quickly became popular among the elite and fashionable crowds, earning a reputation as a sophisticated and stylish cocktail.
Today, the Martini remains a symbol of elegance and refinement, enjoyed by people around the world. Whether enjoyed at a high-end cocktail bar or made at home, the Martini continues to captivate drinkers with its timeless appeal and classic charm. Cheers to the Martini – a true icon of the cocktail world.
5. Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a cocktail with a rich history and a timeless appeal. It is a drink that has stood the test of time, remaining popular among cocktail enthusiasts for generations. What sets the Old Fashioned apart is its simplicity and its emphasis on the quality of its ingredients.
The Old Fashioned is traditionally made with whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus. The key to a good Old Fashioned is to use high-quality whiskey and to balance the sweetness and bitterness of the drink. The sugar and bitters are muddled together to create a flavorful syrup, which is then combined with the whiskey and served over ice. The citrus twist adds a refreshing aroma to the drink, enhancing its overall appeal.
One of the reasons why the Old Fashioned has remained so popular is its versatility. While the classic recipe calls for whiskey, the drink can also be made with other spirits, such as rum or brandy, to create unique variations. Additionally, different types of bitters can be used to add depth and complexity to the drink, allowing for endless possibilities for customization.
The Old Fashioned's history dates back to the early 19th century when it was known simply as a "whiskey cocktail." Over time, the drink evolved, with the addition of sugar, bitters, and citrus becoming standard practice. The name "Old Fashioned" is said to have originated in the late 19th century when bartenders began referring to the drink as such to distinguish it from newer, more complex cocktails that were gaining popularity.
6. Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is a refreshing and iconic cocktail that has been a favorite among drinkers since its creation in the 1940s. Known for its unique combination of flavors and its signature copper mug presentation, the Moscow Mule has become a staple on cocktail menus around the world.
The Moscow Mule is made with vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice, making it a simple yet delicious drink. The key to a great Moscow Mule is using high-quality ingredients, especially the ginger beer, which gives the cocktail its distinct spicy and effervescent flavor. The lime juice adds a bright and citrusy note, balancing out the sweetness of the ginger beer and the boldness of the vodka.
One of the most distinctive features of the Moscow Mule is its presentation. The cocktail is typically served in a copper mug, which not only keeps the drink cold but also adds a touch of elegance to the drinking experience. The copper mug is believed to enhance the flavor of the cocktail, though this claim is more about tradition and aesthetics than actual science.
The history of the Moscow Mule is as intriguing as its flavor. The cocktail was reportedly invented in the 1940s by John G. Martin, the president of a liquor company, and Jack Morgan, the owner of a pub in Los Angeles. Legend has it that the two men created the Moscow Mule as a way to promote their respective businesses – Martin's vodka and Morgan's ginger beer. The cocktail was an instant hit and has remained popular ever since.
7. Spritz
The Spritz is a popular cocktail that originated in Italy and has become a favorite among drinkers around the world. Known for its light and bubbly taste, the Spritz is the perfect drink for a hot summer day or a festive gathering.
The classic Spritz is made with Aperol or Campari, sparkling wine, and a splash of soda water. The combination of these ingredients creates a refreshing and effervescent drink that is both light and flavorful. The Aperol or Campari adds a bitter and herbal note to the cocktail, while the sparkling wine provides a crisp and bubbly base. The soda water helps to lighten the drink and adds a bit of fizziness.
One of the most appealing aspects of the Spritz is its versatility. While the classic recipe calls for Aperol or Campari, other liqueurs can be used to create different variations of the cocktail. For example, using St-Germain elderflower liqueur can add a floral and sweet note, while using Cointreau can add a citrusy twist.
The Spritz is also known for its visual appeal. The cocktail is typically served in a wine glass or a tumbler, with a slice of orange or a twist of lemon as garnish. The vibrant colors of the drink, combined with the citrusy aroma of the garnish, create a drink that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
8. Mojito
The Mojito is a classic cocktail that has its roots in Cuba and has since become a popular drink around the world, especially during the summer months. Known for its refreshing and minty flavor, the Mojito is a favorite among those looking for a light and flavorful cocktail.
The traditional Mojito is made with five key ingredients: white rum, sugar (traditionally sugar cane juice), lime juice, soda water, and fresh mint leaves. To make the cocktail, the mint leaves and sugar are muddled together in a glass to release the mint's oils and flavor. Lime juice is then added, followed by the rum and soda water. The drink is typically garnished with a sprig of mint and a lime wedge.
One of the most appealing aspects of the Mojito is its refreshing taste. The combination of mint, lime, and rum creates a drink that is both sweet and tangy, with a hint of herbal freshness from the mint. The soda water adds a fizzy element that lightens the drink and makes it incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot summer day.
The history of the Mojito is as colorful as its flavor. The cocktail is said to have been a favorite of Ernest Hemingway, who enjoyed it during his time in Cuba. The Mojito's popularity spread to the United States and beyond, becoming a staple at bars and restaurants around the world.
9. Paloma
The Paloma is a refreshing and delightful cocktail that originated in Mexico and has become increasingly popular around the world. Known for its bright and citrusy flavors, the Paloma is the perfect drink for a hot summer day or a festive gathering.
The classic Paloma is made with tequila, grapefruit soda, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. The combination of these ingredients creates a drink that is both sweet and tart, with a hint of bitterness from the grapefruit soda. The lime juice adds a refreshing citrusy note, while the salt helps to balance out the flavors and enhance the overall taste of the cocktail.
One of the most appealing aspects of the Paloma is its simplicity. Unlike some cocktails that require a long list of ingredients and complicated preparation methods, the Paloma can be made with just a few simple ingredients and a quick mix. This makes it a great choice for parties and gatherings where you want to serve a delicious and refreshing drink without spending a lot of time behind the bar.
The history of the Paloma is as colorful as its flavor. The cocktail is believed to have been created in the 1950s by Don Javier Delgado Corona, the owner of La Capilla bar in Tequila, Mexico. The Paloma quickly became a favorite among locals and tourists alike, thanks to its delicious taste and refreshing qualities.
10. Mimosa
The Mimosa is a classic brunch cocktail that has become a staple at morning celebrations and special occasions. Known for its simple yet elegant composition, the Mimosa is loved for its light and bubbly nature, making it a refreshing choice for early gatherings.
The traditional Mimosa is made with equal parts champagne or sparkling wine and freshly squeezed orange juice. The champagne provides a crisp and effervescent base, while the orange juice adds a sweet and citrusy flavor. The combination of these two ingredients creates a drink that is both refreshing and easy to drink, making it a popular choice for brunches and breakfast events.
One of the most appealing aspects of the Mimosa is its versatility. While the classic recipe calls for orange juice, other fruit juices can be used to create variations of the cocktail. For example, a pomegranate Mimosa can be made with pomegranate juice, while a peach Mimosa can be made with peach nectar. These variations add a unique twist to the classic cocktail, making it suitable for different tastes and preferences.
The history of the Mimosa is as delightful as its taste. The cocktail is said to have been invented in the 1920s at the Ritz Hotel in Paris. The combination of champagne and orange juice was a novel idea at the time, and the drink quickly became popular among the fashionable elite.
Top drinks by city
When it comes to the top drinks in key US cities, there are certain preferences that stand out based on the local culture and atmosphere. Let's explore the top drinks in a few notable cities:
Miami - Mojito: Miami's warm and tropical climate makes it the perfect setting for enjoying a refreshing Mojito. This classic Cuban cocktail, made with rum, mint, lime juice, sugar, and soda water, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Its combination of sweet, citrusy, and herbal flavors is ideal for cooling off on a hot day while lounging on the beach or exploring the vibrant city.
New York - Margarita: In the bustling metropolis of New York City, the Margarita reigns supreme. This timeless cocktail, typically made with tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, is a favorite among New Yorkers for its simplicity and refreshing taste. Whether enjoyed at a rooftop bar overlooking the city skyline or at a trendy downtown lounge, the Margarita is a go-to choice for many in the Big Apple.
San Francisco - Negroni: Known for its culinary scene and appreciation for fine cocktails, San Francisco has a penchant for the Negroni. This classic Italian cocktail, made with gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, is beloved for its bold and complex flavor profile. The bitter and herbal notes of the Campari appeal to San Francisco's sophisticated palate, making the Negroni a popular choice among locals.
Los Angeles - Moscow Mule: The laid-back and sunny vibes of Los Angeles make it the perfect backdrop for enjoying a Moscow Mule. This cocktail, made with vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice, is served in a copper mug, adding to its appeal. The refreshing and zesty flavors of the Moscow Mule make it a favorite among Angelenos, whether they're relaxing on the beach or exploring the city's vibrant nightlife.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the top drinks of summer 2024 offer a delightful array of flavors and experiences for cocktail enthusiasts across the United States. From the classic elegance of the Cosmopolitan and Martini to the refreshing zest of the Mojito and Paloma, there's a drink to suit every taste and occasion.
Cities like Miami, New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles each have their own unique preferences when it comes to cocktails, reflecting the diverse and vibrant drinking cultures of these urban centers. Whether you're sipping a Mojito on the beaches of Miami, enjoying a Margarita in the bustling streets of New York, indulging in a Negroni in the sophisticated bars of San Francisco, or savoring a Moscow Mule in the laid-back atmosphere of Los Angeles, these drinks are more than just beverages – they're experiences that capture the essence of each city.
As we raise our glasses to toast the summer of 2024, let's celebrate the rich history, vibrant flavors, and cultural significance of these top drinks. Whether you're enjoying them at a rooftop bar, a beachside cafe, or a backyard barbecue, these cocktails are sure to make your summer unforgettable. Cheers to the top drinks of summer 2024 – may they bring joy, relaxation, and a taste of summer to all who indulge in them.
