Cocktails may be all about personal preference, but there are some recipes that endure the test of time – whether because they are delicious or simply classics.
To narrow down which popular cocktails have made the cut for 2019 when it comes to the world’s best-selling classic cocktails in the world, Drinks International asked top bartenders around the globe what they thought – and made.
According to bartenders from 127 of the best bars in 38 countries, these are the 10 best-selling cocktails, as reported by Business Insider – and they are surprisingly similar to last year’s list, proving that some cocktails will always be in style.
1. Old Fashioned
The classic drink made of whiskey, bitters and muddled sugar is first on the list for the fifth consecutive year. Although it is occasionally made with brandy, the classic version is still the most popular in the world.
2. Negroni
Keeping its place in second, the Negroni, comprised of gin, vermouth rosso, and Campari has proven its continued popularity for five years as well.
3. Whiskey Sour
The classic drink featuring whiskey, lemon juice, sugar, and the occasional egg white featured in third on this year’s list of most popular classic cocktails. It also means whiskey-based drinks make up two of the three top spots.
4. Daiquiri
Although it may seem better-suited for a beach, the daiquiri, made of rum, simple syrup, and lime juice, remains a world-wide classic cocktail, coming in at fourth on this year’s list.
5. Manhattan
The classic Manhattan was named by 40 per cent of bartenders questioned – proving a global interest in the cocktail made of vermouth, whiskey, and bitters.
6. Dry Martini
Whether it’s due to the lasting influence of James Bond or not, the classic dry martini is a beloved drink – although it has dropped in popularity since last year.
7. Espresso Martini
Although a relative newcomer, the coffee-based cocktail made with vodka and sugar syrup has shown its endurance – after rising two spots on this year’s list compared to last year’s.
8. Margarita
Proof that tequila has a place on the list of best-selling cocktails, the margarita, made traditionally with tequila, orange liqueur and lime juice, comes in at number eight in 2019.
9. Aperol Spritz
This is the first time the Aperol Spritz, made of prosecco, soda, and Aperol, has appeared on the list in the top 10.
Although a classic, it is just recently gaining popularity since it first appeared on the cocktail scene in the 50s.
10. Moscow Mule
The Moscow mule is for those who like the taste of ginger – and there seems to be many people who do.
The mix of vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice may have lost two spots on the list from last year, but it is still a global best-seller.
You can see the full list of the 50 best-selling classic cocktails for 2019 in the January issue of Drinks International.
