What is the most popular cocktail in the US?

Research found that cocktail classics are resonating with US audiences but which serve is the most popular?

New data from Coffeeness, a German-based coffee resource, used Google search results to determine the favourite cocktails for each state, with some states recording two entries.

The research showed that American palates are more accepting of bitter flavours, with the Aperol Spritz at least tied for the favourite in 22 states.

The Margarita was second with 17 states, followed by the Old Fashioned with nine, Moscow Mule with seven, and Mimosa with three.

There are certain regional takeaways to be made from this data. Warmer states like Florida, Arizona and California prefer the refreshing Aperol Spritz, while mountain states like Wyoming, Utah, Idaho, and North Dakota prefer the zestiness of a Mule.

States on the Mexican border have an affinity for tequila. Texans prioritised Margaritas, while in New Mexico, Margaritas were searched alongside Palomas, the only representation for the grapefruit cocktail.

The outliers are perhaps more telling. People in Arkansas enjoy their Mojitios, while Alabama was the only state to favour the Bellini, a close relative to the Mimosa.

Oklahoma represented the Side Car, and Hawaii emphasised its cultural drinks scene by favouring the Mai Tai. A strong cocktail culture in Louisiana makes its the only state to select the Daiquiri.

To compile the data, Coffeeness assembled a list of the 200 most popular cocktails, then analysed Google search volume data for each cocktail by state. The company suggested there was a clear preference for sparkling, zesty, and sweet or spicy drinks with a wider embrace of bitter Italian flavours.