Around the World in Signature Cocktails

Happy World Cocktail Day! Raise your glasses and enjoy this global tour of some of our favourite iconic cocktails.

Whether you’re a casual sipper or a certified mixologist, this is the perfect moment to celebrate the vibrant, boozy world of cocktails that cross cultures, continents, and centuries.

From timeless classics to innovative concoctions, cocktails offer a taste of the world's diverse traditions, and every country has a signature drink that captures its spirit and tells a story...

United Kingdom - Pimm's Cup

A quintessential British summer drink, the Pimm's Cup mixes Pimm's No. 1 with lemonade and a medley of fruits and herbs, including cucumber, mint, orange, and lemon – enjoyed as a glass or served by the jug. It's a refreshing choice for garden parties and sporting events and tastes better when the sun is shining.

United States – Old Fashioned

Born in the 1800s, the Old Fashioned is the blueprint for modern mixology. A smooth blend of bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of orange peel, this cocktail is bold, timeless, and deeply American. Perfect for cosy nights, jazz bars, and nostalgic vibes.

Mexico – Margarita

Nothing screams fiesta like a Mexico Margarita. Tequila, triple sec, and lime juice come together in a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and sour. Whether it’s frozen or on the rocks, this drink is the ultimate symbol of Mexican zest, and is perfect for beach days and taco pairings.

Brazil – Caipirinha

Say hello to the national cocktail of Brazil: the Caipirinha. Made with cachaça (a spirit distilled from sugarcane), lime, and sugar, this punchy and refreshing drink captures Brazil’s lively, tropical soul. Perfect for summer BBQs, samba nights, and carnival vibes.

Japan – Highball

Minimalist and elegant, the Japanese Highball is more than just whisky and soda; it’s an art form. Precision, chill, and balance are key with this cocktail. It’s light, crisp, and surprisingly complex, with understated sophistication.

France – French 75

Want to drink like royalty? The French 75 blends gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne for a cocktail that’s fizzy, floral, and fabulously French. Named after a World War I field gun, this cocktail packs more punch than its dainty glass lets on. The French 75 cocktail is ideal for celebrations and brunches.

Cuba – Mojito

Muddled mint, lime, sugar, white rum, and soda water - Mojitos are pure refreshment in a glass. Born in Havana and loved worldwide, it’s the taste of summer done right. Picture yourself with a Cuban Mojito, either dancing in the moonlight or during a lazy pool day – bliss!

Italy – Negroni

Bold, bitter, and intense, the ruby red Negroni, a classic Italian cocktail, is not for the faint of heart. With equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, it’s the cocktail of choice for those who like their drinks with depth and drama.

Thailand – Siam Sunray

Often described as Thailand in a glass, the Siam Sunray is a zesty, exotic and subtly fiery cocktail, typically made with vodka or Thai rum, combined with coconut liqueur, lime juice, and syrup. What sets it apart are its distinctly Thai ingredients and spices: fresh ginger, red chili, and kaffir lime leaves.

United States (Hawaii) - Mai Tai

The classic, fruity, and Instagram-worthy Mai Tai is a must try. Despite its Polynesian name, the Mai Tai was created in California but gained fame in Hawaii. Combining light and dark rums, lime juice, orgeat syrup, and orange Curaçao liqueur, it's a tiki bar favourite.

Singapore Sling – Singapore

Created at the Raffles Hotel in the early 20th century by bartender Ngiam Tong Boon, the Singapore Sling is a gin-based cocktail with cherry liqueur, Cointreau, Benedictine, grenadine, pineapple juice, lime juice, and bitters, with a pretty pink hue. It's a tropical delight that captures Singapore's colonial history.

Spain – Sangria

Sangria is a refreshing and fruity wine-based cocktail, traditionally made by mixing Spanish red wine with chopped fresh fruits, a sweetener (like honey or sugar), and sometimes a splash of brandy or orange liqueur. The mixture is typically chilled for several hours then served over ice. Sangria is popular at summer parties because it’s easy to make in large batches and highly customisable, with variations including white, rosé, and sparkling Sangria.

World Cocktail Day isn’t just about drinks; it’s about connection, culture, and creativity. So, whether you’re mixing something fancy or just clinking glasses with friends, take a moment to appreciate the history and traditions behind every pour.

Have a go at creating one of these international cocktails today in honour of World Cocktail Day, or even better, if you’d like to sample one of these iconic beverages in their home country, get in touch with Brightsun Travel and we’ll help you get closer to taking a refreshing sip!