Cocktails can range from simple combinations of 3 ingredients to a spectacular production of skill and flavours. Every person has their own preferences and the highlights often follow the trends of the season. In 2022, there was a resurgence in some old classics and some newcomers that rose to the top, but according to Google, these are the top 10 most popular cocktails of the year.
1. Aperol Spritz
A bitter aperitif with astringent ingredients like gentian, rhubarb and cinchona, Aperol is a popular Italian drink and when mixed with Prosecco bitters and soda, it becomes this years favourite cocktail, the Aperol Spritz.
2. Espresso Martini
The buzz of espresso with the kick of vodka, what’s not to like about this innovative take on the classic martini. Since it doesn’t contain gin or vermouth, it’s not a martini in the technical sense, but that hasn’t stopped it from rising to number two on the list.
3. Dirty Shirley
The childhood mocktail favourite, the Shirley Temple is all grown up. Made with grenadine and lemon-lime soda, it has the same fruity taste you love along with a kick from vodka to take the experience into the 18+ category.
4. Cosmopolitan
Pop culture made ensured that most of the world knows about Cosmopolitans. This cocktail, made with vodka, Cointreau, cranberry juice, and freshly squeezed or sweetened lime juice has enjoyed many years of popularity and is clearly still going strong.
5. Negroni
An interview with the fabulous Emma D’Arcy gave us the iconic line about her favourite cocktail being ‘A Negroni Sbaglito…with Prosecco in it.’ And while that turned out to be one of the most ordered cocktails of 2022, the classic still took the lead in searches. Stunning.
6. Dirty Martini
Understanding the minutiae of Martinis can take some practice and it seems a lot of people have been studying up. A dirty martini is simply one with a splash of brine from a jar of olives or pickles.
7. Hot Toddy
The consummate holiday drink seems to be popular year round with this spiced, warm, whiskey-based cocktail sliding into the top 10.
8. Lemon Drop Martini
Another twist on the classic this cocktail is inspired by the old-timey sweet and is made with vodka, lemon, triple sec and simple syrup for a refreshing sip that’s easy to recreate at home.
9. Mai Tai
A tropical tango the Mai Tai is made with rum, Curaçao liqueur, orgeat syrup, and lime juice. It is one of the characteristic cocktails in Tiki culture and has become associated with beachy holidays.
10. Piña Colada
Speaking of beach vibes, this Carribean classic made with white rum, pineapple juice and coconut is enjoying extended popularity and rounds out the top 10 with its festive and fruity flavours.
