Top Cocktails Made Famous Thanks to Pop Culture

This post was written in collaboration with UKPosting

Cocktails have long been a part of our culture, from enjoying a classic martini while playing on slot machines to more modern tiki drinks sipped poolside. But in recent years, some have become famous for more than just their taste. We’re now used to seeing particular beverages making star appearances in various media, from movies and television shows to viral Internet moments. From downright hilarious to outright iconic, these cultural cocktails have become part of the public consciousness and drinking vernacular.

White Russian

The White Russian is a classic cocktail that rose to prominence after its memorable starring role in the cult classic film The Big Lebowski. This cocktail is comprised of vodka and coffee liqueur—typically either Kahlúa or Tia Maria—with cream or milk and sometimes ice added. The ingredients are carefully poured over ice and stirred together until the desired texture is reached.

Despite its cult following, the White Russian is far from being a strange or unusual cocktail. It has actually become quite popular in many bars, although its popularity surged in the wake of The Big Lebowski’s release. Whether enjoyed neat or on the rocks, the White Russian remains a timeless cocktail for those seeking a subtle punch of flavor. It is especially popular during the winter months when its creamy texture provides a delicious warmth.

Negroni Sbagliato

The Negroni Sbagliato blew up on TikTok after Emma D’Arcy’s viral interview became a meme. And now, we’re experiencing a Negroni Renaissance. This drink is a great twist on the classic Italian cocktail which consists of a mix of 1 part Campari, 1 part gin, and 1 part sweet vermouth. In the Negroni Sbagliato, a twist comes in the form of using prosecco instead of the typical gin. The result is a lighter, effervescent, and fruity drink that is as delicious as it is interesting.

Vesper Martini

Shaken, not stirred—the Vesper Martini became popular in the 1953 Ian Fleming novel, Casino Royale. The iconic 007 cocktail is a combination of gin, vodka, and French aperitif wine. This unique blend of flavors makes it a classic or “proper” martini. To make a Vesper Martini, you will need 3 ounces of gin, 1 ounce of vodka, half an ounce of French aperitif wine, a lemon peel, and ice.  To assemble the cocktail, mix the gin, vodka, and aperitif wine in a mixing glass with ice. Stir the mixture for 10-20 seconds, until it is well combined. Strain it into a martini glass and add a lemon peel for garnish. 

Cosmopolitan

The Cosmopolitan was the signature drink of Carrie Bradshaw, the fictional protagonist of the popular television series and movie franchise Sex and the City. The drink consists of vodka, cranberry juice, triple sec, and lime juice, and it’s served in a tall martini glass with a sugared or salt-rimmed edge. The iconic drink quickly became popular after Sex and the City premiered, with people all over the world replicating the drink as a way of channeling some of the spirits of Carrie and her cult of girl power.

In recent years, bartenders have created variations on the classic Cosmo recipe, often substituting different vodkas or adding additional flavoring agents. Still, the classic formula continues to remain extremely popular, associating itself with a feeling of unabashed femininity, sophistication, and style. Even if you’re not a fan of Sex and the City, the Cosmo remains a drink worth trying—it may help you release your inner Carrie Bradshaw, if only for an evening.