It’s not really a secret that Australians enjoy a nice, cold bevvie after a hard day. According to a 2019 survey, around 77% of Australians consumed at least one full serving of alcohol over the prior year. The pubs and bars are doing a fine business, most people enjoy the fun and camaraderie of a night out celebrating with some drinks.
Whilst beer is undoubtedly king when it comes to the favourite tipple down under, there are many who like to have a cocktail or three when they belly up to the bar. It’s good fun to survey the shelves from bottom to top to find a new brand of liquor or Schnapps to try out, and a quality bartender can always recommend the best drink to accentuate your choices.
Here are some of the most popular mixed drinks that Australians are enjoying these days, so get ready to get thirsty!
The Martini – Martinis are a timeless classic, and have been the number one choice of sophisticated drinkers for decades. When we think of a Martini we can’t help but imagine that suave spy with a license to kill, James Bond, who always orders his dry gin Martini “shaken, not stirred.” Considering he’s armed, give the man what he wants! The 007-style version is certainly a classic, but there is much more that can go into a fine Martini than gin and vermouth, the possibilities are endless! Gin is the traditional spirit used in a Martini, but vodka comes in a close second. The vermouth used can be dry, sweet, or even flavoured! An array of garnishes can accompany the Martini, including green olives, lemons, limes, and pickled onions.
Long Island Ice Tea – This multifaceted cocktail has greatly increased in popularity in Australia over the years. The classic version is a mixture of vodka, white rum, triple sec, tequila, and gin, finished off with a dash of cola. This mouth-watering liquid concoction is now a staple in bars and social gatherings. Long Island Ice Teas are famed for their versatility, they can be mixed with just about any ingredient for a unique taste. Some people like to add cranberry juice, pineapple juice, or lime juice to give their Long Island Ice Tea a fruity flair. One thing is for certain, they are so good you’ll be back for more!
The Old Fashioned – A classic cocktail from all the way back in the 19th century, traditionally made with whiskey, bitters, sugar, and a citrus twist. This Old-Fashioned drink is a well-loved bar staple, and continues to be a favourite of cocktail enthusiasts to this day. The Old-Fashioned cocktail is famed for its bold flavours, the whiskey makes up the base of the drink, whilst the bitters and sugar lend a delightful sweetness and complexity. The citrus twist gives it a bit of zing and a fresh aroma creating a unique combination of tastes that ensure this classic cocktail will be enjoyed far into future centuries!
