Signature cocktails from around the world

A delicious concoction of cranberry juice, vodka, orange and lime juice - the iconic cosmopolitan cocktail is enjoyed around the world. However, this dainty-looking beverage actually originated in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The signature drink’s popularity really began to rise when it continuously featured in the immensely popular ‘Sex and the City’ series and films. The main character, Carrie Bradshaw, often ordered a ‘Cosmo’ before chatting with friends. This cocktail is famously served in a martini glass, sometimes with a dash of fruit perched on the side.

This refreshing blend is the ultimate treat on a hot summer’s day. And it wouldn’t be the famous beverage it is today without the bustling city of Havana, Cuba, where it was created back in the 19th century. Its sweet taste is a blend of fresh lime juice, sugar, rum, club soda and mint sprigs. The bartender will often serve this drink in a tall glass over lots of ice and with a few lime slices for the finishing touch.

‘If you like Pina Coladas...’ - this signature cocktail wasn’t featured in a famous song for nothing! The tantalizing tropical drink was invented in beautiful Puerto Rico. Coconut cream, white rum and tangy pineapple mix together perfectly to form a sweet beach-side tipple. This drink is particularly beautiful, with a pale-yellow hue, a pineapple wedge, an umbrella, and plenty of ice to refresh you. Yum!

A quick and easy cocktail to make, the world-famous Spanish Sangria is enjoyed by many holidaymakers every year. A fruity and refreshing drink, this popular mix is made of red wine and chopped fruit! Unlike most of the other signature cocktails we’ve mentioned, Sangria is often presented in a large tumbler or wine glass. How about enjoying this drink with a tasty tapas spread? The perfect taste of Spain.

You can expect a unique herb-like and liquorice taste when sipping this classic Italian cocktail. It’s easy to see why it’s enjoyed worldwide. It’s often described as bitter and sweet, made of gin, vermouth rosso and Campari. You can expect a red-hued look in a small glass with ice and lemon. Developed in a bar in Florence in 1919, the Negroni brings a 'romantic resonance to the modern world!'

This exotic drink is often described as ‘Thailand in a glass’, boasting a unique blend of Asian cooking spices with vodka. Take a sip, and you’ll immediately be transported to a beautiful beach in Phuket. Bliss! The cocktail was created in 2009 by a famous bartender Surasaki Pantaisong and is often used in Thailand tourism advertising. And how can it not be? When it tastes so delicious and represents the country’s essence and flavours so well.

This pretty cocktail is almost exclusive to Canada. Although very similar to the famous Bloody Mary, it has its own unique twist. Vodka, tomato juice, spices and other ingredients combine to make a light, refreshing, yet spicy taste. A celery stick or lime wedge is often placed on the top to add more of a kick. In fact, Canadians love this cocktail so much that it has its very own day! National Caesar Day is celebrated on May 18th every year.

The traditional recipe of this signature Hawaiian drink is making a comeback. An intriguing combination of light and dark rum, the Mai Tai cocktail is a taste you won’t forget. Although it resembles a classic daiquiri, the orange liquor and syrup add a unique sweetness. This vintage cocktail is incredibly flavoursome and enjoyed with plenty of ice on a dreamy Hawaiian holiday!

And last but not least is the beautifully-tasting Moscow Mule. Developed for the first time in Los Angeles, this signature cocktail is interestingly served in a copper mug, so it is kept at the perfect, cool temperature. Order one of these refreshing drinks, and you’ll instantly taste the exciting combination of vodka, lime juice and ginger beer! People who drink this beverage often describe it as sweet, spicy and strong.