From the timeless Negroni to the globetrotting Mojito, the world’s most popular cocktails tell stories of flavors, cultures, and trends that evolve over time. Some have held their place on the coolest bar menus for decades, while others rise to fame thanks to social media or creative reinterpretations. But what truly makes a cocktail iconic? And which ones never go out of style?
In this article, we explore the most beloved drinks, their most curious variations, and everything you need to know to pick your next favorite.
What Are the Most Famous Cocktails?
Here’s the (unofficial, but very real) ranking of the most consumed cocktails worldwide, based on bartenders, international bar menus, and industry reports:
- Negroni – Dry, bold, Italian. Gin, red vermouth, and bitter. A legend.
- Margarita – Tequila, triple sec, lime juice. Salty, tangy, irresistible.
- Mojito – White rum, sugar, lime, mint, and soda. Fresh and Cuban.
- Old Fashioned – Bourbon, sugar, Angostura, orange peel. The king of classics.
- Martini – Gin (or vodka) and dry vermouth. Liquid elegance, with an olive or lemon twist.
- Daiquiri – Rum, lime, sugar. Simple and balanced.
- Cosmopolitan – Vodka, triple sec, lime, and cranberry juice. A 2000s icon.
- Whiskey Sour – Whiskey, lemon juice, sugar, and egg white. Tangy and velvety.
- Gin & Tonic – A timeless evergreen. Versatile, aromatic, always in vogue.
- Piña Colada – Rum, coconut, pineapple. The tropics in a glass.
What’s the Most Ordered Cocktail in the World?
It varies by region, but globally the Negroni ranks among the most ordered cocktails, especially in Europe. In the U.S., Old Fashioned and Margarita have reigned supreme for years.
During the warmer seasons, Mojito and Gin & Tonic see a surge in popularity.
In mixology-focused venues, however, twists often steal the spotlight: think of a Negroni with mezcal instead of gin, or a smoky Margarita.
What Are the Best Cocktails for an Aperitif?
Aperitivo calls for balance: something to awaken the palate, but not overly alcoholic. Here are the perfect cocktails for aperitivo:
- Aperol or Campari Spritz: light, bubbly, and orange-hued.
- Americano: bitter, red vermouth, and soda. The Negroni’s foundation.
- French 75: gin, lemon juice, and champagne. Elegant and refined.
- Negroni Sbagliato: prosecco instead of gin – softer and lower in alcohol.
- Hugo: prosecco, elderflower syrup, mint. Trendier than ever.
The key: fresh, bitter or fruity, and never too sweet.
What Types of Cocktails Exist?
Cocktails can be categorized by technique, structure, and intensity. Here are the main groups:
- Short drinks: concentrated, served in lowball glasses (e.g., Negroni, Martini)
- Long drinks: lighter, often with ice and soda (e.g., Mojito, Gin & Tonic)
- Frozen/blended: blended with ice, often tropical (e.g., Piña Colada)
- Sours: alcohol base, lemon juice, and sugar (e.g., Daiquiri, Whiskey Sour)
What Are “Muddled” Cocktails?
These involve hands-on craftsmanship. Muddled cocktails are those where the bartender works the fresh ingredients directly in the glass. The Mojito is the most famous example: lime and mint are crushed to release essential oils. Caipirinha and Mint Julep follow the same principle.
These are living cocktails, evolving with each sip—perfect for those who enjoy herbal and citrus notes. The muddler (bar pestle) is used to extract aromas from fresh ingredients. The most famous:
- Mojito – lime and mint
- Caipirinha – lime and raw sugar
- Caipiroska – vodka variant of the Caipirinha
- Mint Julep – fresh mint and bourbon
Perfect for summer and lovers of fresh, natural flavors.
What Are the Best Fruity Cocktails?
Fruity cocktails are ideal for those who prefer sweet, fresh, or exotic flavors. Favorites include:
- Sex on the Beach – vodka, peach, orange, and cranberry juices
- Mai Tai – dark rum, lime, orgeat syrup, curaçao
- Tequila Sunrise – tequila, orange juice, grenadine
- Strawberry Daiquiri – a sweet, frozen twist on the classic
Great for those who steer away from bitter or dry profiles.
What Are the Strongest Cocktails?
For bold palates and intense nights:
- Old Fashioned – pure alcohol, no frills
- Dry Martini – dry, elegant, and deadly
- Sazerac – whiskey, absinthe, sugar, Angostura
- Negroni – 100% spirits, 0% soft
These are often served neat or with minimal ice—meant for those unafraid of pure alcohol.
What Are the Trending Cocktails in 2025?
In 2025, trends point to:
- Low-alcohol cocktails → creative Spritzes, fortified wines, light bitters
- Botanical and herbal ingredients → infused gins, artisanal vermouths
- Fermented and naturally acidic drinks → kombucha, shrubs, sipping vinegars
- Non-alcoholic cocktails → crafted like real drinks, with technique and balance
- Signature drinks → every venue has its own, like KarmaCore’s “Reverse Negroni Sbagliato” 😉
What Are Italian Cocktails?
Italy is home to many iconic cocktails, blending tradition with innovation. Highlights include:
- Negroni – born in Florence
- Spritz – a Veneto classic
- Americano – based on Campari
- Bellini – prosecco and peach, from Venice
- Garibaldi – Campari and orange juice
- Cardinale – gin, dry vermouth, and bitter
Most are bitter/vermouth-based—ideal for the Italian aperitivo.
What Are the Most Popular Alcoholic Drinks in Italy?
Topping the list for Italians are wine and beer—unbeatable staples at the table. But when it comes to spirits and liqueurs, the ranking shifts:
- Aperol/Campari – queens of aperitivo
- Digestive bitters – Fernet, Montenegro, Averna
- Gin – key player in Italian mixology
- Vermouth – finally making a comeback
- Grappa – especially popular in northern Italy
The 2025 trend? Rediscovering Made in Italy, even in spirits.
What’s the Difference Between a Drink and a Cocktail?
In everyday language, they’re often used interchangeably—but technically:
- Cocktail = a mixed preparation with multiple ingredients (alcoholic and non), with a balanced structure (e.g., Negroni)
- Drink = any beverage, even plain (e.g., straight gin, wine, beer)
So: all cocktails are drinks, but not all drinks are cocktails.
Where to Drink the Best Cocktails in Naples?
Looking for a proper Negroni, a spicy Margarita, or a non-alcoholic cocktail that doesn’t make you miss the booze? KarmaCore is the place for you.
Right in the heart of Naples’ historic center—dim lights, good vibes, queer-friendly atmosphere. A spot where every drink tells a story.
Book your table at KarmaCore for an aperitivo or night out: we’ll be waiting with a full glass and a warm smile. Book now.
