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State-by-state, the most popular cocktail drinks in the US
Google is a vast database filled with information that gives you a peek into how the world works. UpgradedPoints published a list of the most popular cocktails in every state. The results were obtained by scrutinizing post-quarantine Google Trends data to see which cocktails Americans searched for the most. Plus, don’t miss our recommendations on cocktail-making accessories, from bartender kits to whiskey glass sets.
In this article: BruMate Shaker, Crafthouse by Fortessa Cocktail Strainer and Barfly Teardrop Bar Spoon
The most popular cocktails
Honorable mention: Paloma
A Paloma is crafted with tequila, lime juice and grapefruit juice, grapefruit soda or grapefruit simple syrup. Originating in Mexico, this drink takes the number one spot in California.
#9: Old fashioned
An old fashioned is a whiskey-based drink with bitters, simple syrup and fruit. It’s popular in Mississippi and Wisconsin.
#8: Bellini
You only need two ingredients to make a bellini: Prosecco and peach puree. Of course, you can switch it up with your favorite fruity addition, such as mango, as well. This is the top choice for Alabama and Oklahoma.
#7: Dark n’ stormy
This drink is a favorite in Montana and Rhode Island. It’s made with dark rum and ginger beer and served over ice with a slice of lime. If you don’t have an actual lime, lime juice or simple syrup can be used.
#6: Margarita
The margarita can be served on the rocks or frozen. While there are many versions, the classic includes tequila, triple sec and lime juice. This drink tops the charts in Missouri, New Hampshire and Texas.
#5: Mojito
The mojito is a Cuban cocktail made with white rum, soda water, sugar, lime juice and mint. This fun, summer beverage rules in Arkansas, Virginia and Washington.
#4: White Russian
The timeless white Russian is a solid choice for people living in Alaska, Minnesota and West Virginia. It’s made with vodka, Kahlua and cream.
#3: Wine cooler
A wine cooler is a light, refreshing option that’s made using wine and fruit juice as the main ingredients. It’s the drink of choice in Kansas, Kentucky and Pennsylvania.
#2: Piña colada
The runner-up beverage is a piña colada. This drink features rum, cream of coconut (or coconut milk) and pineapple juice. It can be served shaken or stirred. The top states for this beverage are Florida, New Jersey and New Mexico.
#1: Mimosa
The most popular drink in the States is the mimosa. It’s simple to make, only requiring orange juice and sparkling wine or Champagne. If you prefer, however, you can swap out the OJ with your favorite juice, such as cranberry juice or apple cider. This drink is popular in Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina and Tennessee.
What you need for making cocktails
This is a two-in-one cocktail shaker and tumbler. It has a leak-proof top and BevGuard technology that helps your drinks stay cold longer. The inventive design ensures no metallic aftertaste.
Crafthouse by Fortessa Cocktail Strainer
This oval cocktail strainer fits easily into a mixing glass to allow you to strain your mixed drinks. The crimped handle helps you keep the strainer in place while allowing a smooth pour.
A bar spoon makes it easier to mix cocktails in a shaker or tall glass. This well-made spoon is perfectly weighted with a twisted design that’s attractive and easy to grip. It comes in seven finishes and has a durable stainless steel core. You can get it in lengths ranging from 30 to 50 centimeters.
Kitchen Rest 8-Inch Cocktail Muddler
You’ll need a cocktail muddler to crush fruits, herbs and spices for drinks such as mojitos, caipirinhas and juleps. The 8-inch muddler has a nylon head that provides a crushing force without damaging glasses.
This stainless steel jigger lets you precisely measure liquid ingredients for your cocktails. It has a double-head design and laser-etched measurements including 1 1/2, 3/4 and 1/2 ounces. The jigger comes in five finishes to complement your other bar accessories.
Aozita 24-Piece Bartender Kit with Stand
Rather than purchasing cocktail-making accessories individually, you can go with a bartender kit like this one. This 24-piece cocktail kit includes a shaker with a built-in strainer lid, a muddler, a bar spoon, a jigger, another strainer, a lemon squeezer, ice tongs, cocktail picks, a corkscrew, pour spouts and a guide to preparing cocktails and mocktails. A bamboo stand keeps the accessories organized and easily accessible. Plus, packing bags are included if you want to take your home bar on the go.
Smoke-filled drinks are all the rage right now. This cocktail smoker lets you take advantage of the trend with ease. It can be used on cocktails, desserts, vegetables, meat, fish and more.
Whether you prefer alcoholic drinks or mocktails, these cocktail bombs are for you. Just drop into your beverage of choice and wait for the flavor to erupt.
Libbey Mixologist 18-Piece Bartender Kit
This bartender kit contains three types of cocktail glasses, including highball, margarita and poco glasses, which are used for drinks such as daiquiris and piña coladas (four of each). You also get four shot glasses, a mixing glass and a strainer.
Marquis by Waterford Markham Double Old Fashion Glasses Set
These crystal whiskey glasses are a beautiful addition to any home bar. They’re crafted in Italy, with a traditional cut pattern that gives them an air of sophistication. These 11-ounce glasses come in sets of four.
Worth checking out
- “I’m Just Here for the Drinks: A Guide to Spirits, Drinking and More” by Sother Teague features tips from pro bartenders and recipes for over 100 cocktails.
- This Margaritaville frozen drink machine is perfect for making margaritas, bellinis, daiquiris and more.
- This set of 12 reusable straws is an eco-friendly choice for a home bar.
- Squeeze lemons and limes for your cocktails with this manual citrus juicer.
- For your garnishes, these cocktail sticks are made of sustainable bamboo.
- This two-pack of silicone ice trays makes larger cubes suitable for whiskey and cocktail drinks.
- Unlike ice cubes, these whiskey stones won’t water down your drinks.
- This modern bar cart has a stylish and functional design with wine bottle holders, wine glass racks and two shelves.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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