Cocktails of the Year

Everyone has a favourite tipple, but thanks to research conducted by the search engine Google, we now know the most popular cocktails of 2015! There are no major surprises, the list is full of classic cocktails that I am sure most of us have sipped on at least once in our lifetime. However, there are one or two you may be unfamiliar with, so perhaps this list will help you to broaden your horizons. Here is the top ten countdown:

10. Daiquiri

This simple rum-based classic is popular drink that was invented in Cuba by an America mining engineer. The original is made with just rum, lime juice and sugar, although there are now many variations on this.

9. Sex On The Beach

This pretty cocktail is just perfect in the hot weather. Orange and cranberry juice combine to create a sunrise effect and add a sweetener to peach schnapps and vodka.

8. Aviation

Created in New York in the early twentieth century, this is a gin-based concoction that contains some difficult to find ingredients. Maraschino cherry liqueur and lemon juice are the other main ingredients, but some recipes also call for Crème de Violette. Good luck finding a bottle of that!

7. Mojito

It is difficult to find anyone who doesn’t enjoy this fresh, minty beverage. There are many variations on this cocktail, but the original contains white rum, sugar cane juice, lime juice, sparkling water and mint. Born in Cuba, the history behind it is difficult to pin down.

6. Margarita

Created in Mexico for a dancer who was allergic to all spirits apart from tequila, this salty favourite is always popular. Made with tequila, triple sec, lime or lemon juice, and garnished with salt around the rim, it has a variety of finishes, be it shaken, on the rocks or straight up, and is delicious whichever way you choose.

5. Long Island Ice Tea

Various sources claim to have invented the Long Island Ice Tea, but its potency is undeniable. Despite being somewhat snubbed by bartenders, this combination of vodka, tequila, gin, rum, triple sec, sour mix and cola is still extremely popular among drinkers.

4. Cosmopolitan

Although always a favourite amongst cocktail drinkers, the Cosmopolitan gained a whole army of new fans in the 90s, thanks to its frequent mentions on the television programme, Sex in the City. Made with vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice and freshly squeezed lime, it is a sweet, refreshing drink.

3. Gimlet

One of the simplest recipes on the list, the original Gimlet is nothing but equal parts of gin and lime juice. It has adapted over the years, and now contains far more gin than lime juice. Soda can be added if this is too potent, and mint and lime are often used to garnish.

2. Moscow Mule

Invented in Connecticut in 1941, the name of this cocktail refers to the Russian origin of vodka. It is made with vodka, lime juice, ginger beer and angostura bitters, and is traditionally served in a copper mug, although a highball glass does just fine too.

1. Sangria

This Spanish treat is still the world’s most-loved cocktail! Served in pitchers big enough to accommodate a whole bottle of red wine, a touch of sugar, a swig of brandy, and a whole load of chopped fruit, the recipe varies between bars, and as such, the alcohol content does too! Only drinks made in Spain and Portugal are now legally allowed to carry the Sangria name, but we think it is well worth the trip to get the real thing!