17 Drinks Named After Cities, States and Countries
Ever wonder what it would be like to travel the globe? Now you don’t have to! No matter what your nationality is, you’ll find the world at your feet. Listed below are 17 cocktails named after various world destinations. Some are tried and tested recipes, while others are new and exciting. Whether they leave you satisfied, yearning for more or wasted at the first sip, it’s all up to you to find out. Whatever your poison, you’ll be sure to find it here. Read on and figure out what City, State or Country mixed beverage best suits you.
1. Singapore Sling
As popular as the country itself, the Singapore Sling has found its way into the hearts and mouths of many. Originally invented by Ngiam Tong Boon for the Raffles Hotel in Singapore around 1915, it has become a world wide favorite. With its inviting red color and frothy trim, it can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere.
2. Blue Hawaii
A Hawaiian favorite, hence the name. How can you resist such an alluring drink? With its vivid blue color and tropical garnishing, this cocktail is begging to be relished. If you’re not the lucky bastard who actually gets to order this baby in its state of origin, at least you can make it at home. Just copy the ingredients below and wallow in your sad existence of a life.
3. Alabama Slammer
No, this isn’t the name of their state prison. The Alabama Slammer is a fresh cocktail that is meant to be consumed on a sweaty, sultry Southern afternoon. Made with Amaretto, Southern Comfort, Sloe Gin, and orange juice, it may seem harmless enough. But don’t be fooled by its sweetness. Just like the name suggests, it can definitely knock you and slam you down.
4. The Sweating Colombian
I guess the name says it all. This drink is made with Goldschlager cinnamon schnapps, Kahlua coffee liqueur and cream. One sip of this and it would get you sweating, regardless of whether you’re Colombian or not. Add in a little “Colombian sugar” and you have the makings of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.
5. A Harlem Mugger
While researching on Google for an image of a Harlem Mugger, hundreds of mug shots popped up. Hell, thousands actually. And not a single picture was one of an actual beverage. Given that this cocktail is made up of 1/2 oz vodka, 1/2 oz gin, 1/2 oz white rum, 1/2 oz tequila, 3 oz champagne, and topped with cranberry juice, one sip and you’ll probably feel like you have been mugged. Speculate all you like but this drink really does exist, and not just in my imagination.
6. White Russian
Considering that there aren’t any other colors of Russians (at least I don’t think so), they sure do like their alcohol. Black Russian, Russian Quaalude and Dr. Red Russia are a few other cocktails named after the vodka producing country. I guess if I lived in a place that left me suffering from hypothermia half the time, I’d come up with different ways to get drunk, and stay that way too!
7. London Buck
Why this isn’t named London Quid, I’m not so sure. But in all seriousness, the London Buck is as timeless as the city itself. Take a sip and see if it doesn’t make you feel quite royal. Have a few more and you may actually think you’re Prince Charles in the flesh!
8. Long Island Iced Tea
You’d think that a drink so loaded with different kinds of alcohol would at least have one of them mentioned in its name. It may look cool and unassuming but don’t let it’s simplicity fool you. This sucker will make you forget your own name. I guess if I was from Long Island, I’d want something to make me forget, too.
9. Houston Royal Oil
Texas is best known for its oil distilleries. Thank goodness their cocktails are made of much sweeter stuff. Although deep-bodied and rich in ingredients, this cocktail may appear bitter and harsh on the outside, but it sure is smooth and sweet on the inside.
10. Berlin Martini
In reality, I’ve never even tried this one before. It’s just so much fun to say the word schnapps. Have a couple of these babies and I’m pretty sure everything you say will begin with a schlur.
11. The Parisian
Imagine the shock you’ll get when you ask someone if they want to try a Parisian. Of course, you’ll mean the cocktail, but how are they supposed to know that? You may not get many takers but at least you’ll have fun trying.
12. Manhattan
Just like the city itself, the Manhattan is as cool as it gets. A classic in its own right, you may hear some enthusiasts asking for it shaken and not stirred. Why not awaken your inner 007 and take this one out for a spin.
13. Florida Tracksuit
When I hear the words ‘Florida tracksuit’, I picture old men with white hair in red and orange terry cloth running suits – not the actual fun and icy cocktail that it is. But despite that, the name for this drink is quite fitting. Made with orange vodka, raspberry liqueur and mostly red bull, this beauty will definitely make you ready to party in downtown Miami with the rest of them, no matter what age.
14. Tennessee Cowboy
Sorry ladies, although I know you wish this were the real thing, don’t fret. You can ride this bronco too. Named after Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, this mixed drink is made with soda and Red Bull and will make you buck just as wildly. Next time you’re out with your girlfriends, go ahead and test your luck when you order this. You never know, your wish just might come true.
15. Amsterdam Cocktail
So the name of this beverage is as uncomplicated as they come. No questions there. I guess that’s why Amsterdam is less known for its mixed drinks and more popular for its coffee shops. As the saying goes, “Why drink and drive when you can smoke and fly?”
16. Champagne
Not many know that Champagne is actually the name of a region in France. Otherwise known to many as “bubbly”, connoisseurs will insist that it’s only sparkling wine if it doesn’t originate from that place. Good thing I couldn’t care less about where it’s from for as long as it does its job!
17. Flaming Mexican Flag
Have you ever wanted to know what it feels like to be on fire? Now’s your chance! Whether you’re adventurous or just plain crazy, this shooter is something to try. Make sure your friends are standing by with a bucket full of water in case it doesn’t go down right.
So what’s your poison? The next time you go out for a night on the town, use your newfound knowledge of worldly drinks and try to impress the ladies. And if that doesn’t work, at least you can get drunk in the process. Cheers!
