Introduction
Whether after work, at parties, or on summer vacations – cocktails are a way of life for many Germans. In recent years, certain classics have become firmly established in people's hearts (and glasses). Not only taste, but also aesthetics, social media trends, and international influences play an important role. In this article, we present the top 10 most popular cocktails in Germany – based on bar surveys, sales figures, and online trends. Get inspired and find your next favorite drink!
1st place: Aperol Spritz
History & Origin
The Aperol Spritz originated in Italy, specifically in the Veneto region. Aperol was introduced as an aperitif in the early 20th century. However, the current mix of Aperol, Prosecco, and soda only became established later and became known worldwide through targeted marketing campaigns.
preparation
- 3 parts Prosecco
- 2 parts Aperol
- 1 splash of soda
- Serve on ice with an orange slice
Popularity in Germany
The Aperol Spritz is the undisputed leader among cocktails in Germany. It dominates the outdoor areas of bars, restaurants, and beer gardens, especially in the spring and summer months. Its fruity, bitter flavor, the intense orange color in the glass, and its slight fizz make it the perfect summer drink with a lifestyle factor.
2nd place: Mojito
Origin & cult status
The Mojito originated in Cuba and has long since become a global classic. Originally known as "El Draque," it was prepared in the 16th century with rum, lime, and mint – but without ice. Today, the Mojito is considered the epitome of Caribbean freshness.
Fresh ingredients as a success factor
The secret of a good mojito lies in its freshness: crisp mint, juicy limes, and high-quality white rum. The interplay of these components creates a sparkling, refreshing drink that unfolds its full effect, especially on hot days.
preparation
- 2 tsp cane sugar
- 1 lime (quartered)
- 6–8 fresh mint leaves
- 5 cl white rum
- Soda water & crushed ice
Mash limes with sugar, add mint, fill with ice, add rum and soda – the Cuban classic is ready!
3rd place: Caipirinha
Brazilian export hit
The Caipirinha – often affectionately called "Caipi" – is the national drink of Brazil and a staple of German summer evenings. Originally used as a medicinal drink with garlic and honey to combat the Spanish flu, it quickly developed into one of the most popular cocktails worldwide.
The success at German barbecues
In Germany, the Caipirinha has become a household name – especially at barbecues, garden parties, and beer gardens. Its sweet and sour flavor combined with the bitter sugar cane schnapps makes it unique.
Cachaça vs. Rum
The authentic taste can only be achieved with cachaça , a Brazilian sugar cane liquor. However, if you don't have a bottle on hand, you can always substitute white rum—although purist Caipi fans will only accept this with a wink.
preparation
- 1 lime (quartered)
- 2–3 teaspoons brown sugar
- 5 cl cachaça
- Crushed ice
Mash limes with sugar, add ice and cachaça and stir – the Brazilian classic is ready!
4th place: Piña Colada
Caribbean in a glass
With its creamy consistency and exotic flavor of pineapple and coconut milk, the Piña Colada is a true vacation dream. It was invented in Puerto Rico in 1954 and has since become synonymous with tropical joie de vivre.
Popular at festivals & beach bars
In Germany, the Piña Colada is one of the most popular summer cocktails, especially at festivals, beach parties, and among all-inclusive vacationers. Its sweet, full-bodied flavor is popular with almost everyone.
Recipe and variations
- 4 cl white rum
- 2 cl coconut syrup or coconut cream
- 8 cl pineapple juice
- Crushed ice or ice cubes
Shake all ingredients and pour into a bulbous glass – garnish with a pineapple slice and cocktail cherry if you like.
5th place: Moscow Mule
Trendy drink with cult cup
The Moscow Mule has experienced a real comeback – not least thanks to its signature copper mug. Originally created in the USA in the 1940s as a marketing campaign for vodka, it has now become an indispensable part of many bars.
Effects of ginger & lime
The Moscow Mule gets its freshness and sharpness from ginger beer (not ginger ale!) and fresh lime juice. The combination is invigorating, slightly spicy, and ideal for relaxed evenings in style.
Origin and revival
Although it's called "Moscow," the cocktail is an American invention. In Germany, the Moscow Mule enjoys great popularity, especially in trendy urban bars and at stylish events.
preparation
- 5 cl vodka
- 1 cl fresh lime juice
- Ginger beer to refill
- Served in a copper mug with ice & cucumber slice
6th place: Margarita
Tequila meets lime
The Margarita is a classic Mexican cocktail characterized by its refreshingly sour flavor. Its origins are unclear—some stories trace it back to the 1930s. However, its signature presentation, with a salt rim on the glass, is unmistakable.
Salt rim or not?
The salt rim is more than just decoration—it enhances the flavors of the margarita. However, some connoisseurs prefer a salt-free version to further enhance the fruity character. You can also experiment with a sugar rim.
Variants: Frozen, Mango, Strawberry
Modern variations such as the Frozen Margarita, Mango Margarita or Strawberry Margarita are becoming increasingly popular – especially in summer or at theme parties.
preparation
- 4 cl tequila (blanco)
- 2 cl Cointreau or Triple Sec
- 2 cl fresh lime juice
- Salt rim and ice
Shake all ingredients, strain into a cocktail glass with a salt rim and garnish with a lime slice.
7th place: Martini
Icon of cocktail culture
The Martini isn't just a drink, it's a symbol of style, elegance, and coolness—not least thanks to James Bond and his penchant for "shaken, not stirred." But the Martini is more than a movie cliché: It's a work of art made of gin and vermouth.
Differences: Dry, Dirty, Sweet
Not all Martinis are created equal. The most common variations are:
- Dry Martini: less vermouth, clearer and sharper in taste
- Dirty Martini: with a dash of olive brine – salty and intense
- Sweet Martini: with sweet red vermouth – round and soft
Preparation tips
- 6 cl gin
- 1 cl dry vermouth
- Optional: olive or lemon zest
Stir in a mixing glass with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
8th place: Whiskey Sour
A classic with history
The Whiskey Sour is one of the oldest cocktails in the world—the first recipes date back to the mid-19th century. It combines the power of whiskey with the freshness of lemon and the sweetness of simple syrup to create a perfect balance.
Balanced acidity and sweetness
The appeal of the Whiskey Sour lies in its play of contrasts: bold, fresh, and slightly sweet. This blend makes it a popular drink for beginners and connoisseurs alike.
With or without protein?
In the classic version, an egg white is added to give the drink a creamy texture and a frothy head. Those who are hesitant about raw egg can omit it or replace it with aquafaba (chickpea water).
preparation
- 5 cl bourbon whiskey
- 3 cl fresh lemon juice
- 2 cl sugar syrup
- Optional: 1 egg white
Shake all ingredients vigorously – first without ice (dry shake), then with ice – and strain into a tumbler glass over ice.
9th place: Long Island Iced Tea
The alcohol bomb with cult status
The Long Island Iced Tea is a superlative cocktail. With five different spirits (vodka, rum, gin, tequila, triple sec), it's one of the strongest drinks on the menu – yet tastes surprisingly mild, almost like iced tea. A true classic for night owls.
Why it remains popular
Despite—or perhaps because of—its high alcohol content, Long Island Iced Tea enjoys great popularity, especially among young adults. Its uncomplicated taste, blend of cola and citrus notes, and intense effect make it a party hit.
Recipe & Drinking Tips
- 1 cl vodka
- 1 cl gin
- 1 cl white rum
- 1 cl tequila
- 1 cl Triple Sec (e.g. Cointreau)
- 2 cl lemon juice
- 1 cl sugar syrup
- Cola to refill
Shake all ingredients except the cola, pour into a highball glass over ice, and top with cola. Garnish with a lemon slice.
10th place: Bloody Mary
Brunch drink with character
The Bloody Mary is no ordinary cocktail—it's a flavor explosion. With tomato juice, vodka, Tabasco, and celery, it's ideal for weekend brunch or as a hangover cure after a long night.
Tomato juice with a bite
Its savory, spicy character sets it apart from most sweet and fruity cocktails. It's especially popular with fans of umami flavors and as a "liquid snack" with healthy ingredients.
Sharpening tips & creative variations
Depending on your preference, the Bloody Mary can be very spicy or rather mild. Variations like the "Bloody Maria" (with tequila instead of vodka) or the "Red Snapper" (with gin) provide variety.
preparation
- 4 cl vodka
- 8 cl tomato juice
- 1 cl lemon juice
- 2–3 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
- Tabasco to taste
- Salt, pepper, celery stick for garnish
Mix all ingredients directly in the glass with ice and serve with celery stick.
Cocktails and their significance in German bar culture
Regionally different preferences
German cocktail culture is diverse – in Berlin, trends like the Moscow Mule and Espresso Martini are popular, while in southern Germany, Aperol Spritz and Caipirinha dominate. Regional influences, ingredient availability, and local bar concepts play a major role.
Influence of social media and influencers
Instagram and TikTok have permanently changed drinking habits. Cocktails that are visually appealing—be it through color, decoration, or smoke—go viral and quickly find their way onto bar menus. Drinks like the "Pornstar Martini" or the "Negroni Sbagliato" became a hype overnight.
Comebacks of classics
Along with new trends, classic cocktails are also experiencing a revival. The Old Fashioned, Negroni, and even the Manhattan are increasingly appealing to younger audiences who value quality, craftsmanship, and a variety of spirits.
How trends emerge: Bartenders, Instagram & TikTok
How mixologists set trends
Trends in the cocktail world rarely emerge by chance – creative bartenders are often behind new hype drinks. Through innovative combinations, techniques such as infusions, smoke, or foam, and unusual ingredients, they create new taste experiences that spread from bar to bar.
Cocktail festivals & competitions
Competitions like the World Class Bartender Competition or local events like the "Bar Convent Berlin" promote the exchange and presentation of new cocktail creations. This is often where the trends of tomorrow emerge.
Social media as an accelerator
A visually spectacular cocktail can become famous worldwide through a single viral video on TikTok or Instagram. It's not just the taste that counts, but also the presentation, storytelling, and Instagrammability of the drink.
Conclusion
The top 10 most popular cocktails in Germany demonstrate a strong mix of timeless classics and modern trend drinks. From the fruity Aperol Spritz to the robust Whiskey Sour to the extravagant Moscow Mule – each cocktail brings its own story and character.
Cocktails have long been more than just drinks. They reflect attitudes to life, creativity, and the zeitgeist. Whether at home, in a bar, or at a festival: the right cocktail makes every moment special.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which cocktail is the most popular in Germany?
According to surveys and bar sales, the Aperol Spritz is the most popular cocktail in Germany – especially in the warmer months.
2. Why is the Aperol Spritz so popular?
Its fresh, slightly bitter taste, striking color and easy preparation make the Aperol Spritz the perfect summer drink – especially popular in convivial gatherings on terraces and in bars.
3. What is the difference between a Mojito and a Caipirinha?
Both cocktails contain lime and sugar, but the Mojito is based on white rum and mint , while the Caipirinha is made with cachaça (Brazilian sugar cane spirit) and without mint .
4. Which cocktails are suitable for beginners?
Fruity, not-too-strong cocktails like Piña Colada, Mojito, or Aperol Spritz are ideal for beginners. A classic gin and tonic or a Hugo can also be a good start.
5. Can you enjoy cocktails without alcohol?
Yes! The so-called "mocktail" movement offers non-alcoholic versions of popular cocktails, such as the Virgin Mojito, Nojito, or non-alcoholic Moscow Mule – often served just as tastefully and attractively.