New data from Google searches has revealed that the Aperol Spritz has become the United States’ favourite cocktail, edging out stiff competition in a tight race among classic mixed drinks. The research, conducted by coffee company Coffeeness, analyzed search interest across all 50 states to determine each region’s top cocktail. While the Italian aperitif emerged as the nationwide favourite, the results show a dynamic and evolving American cocktail landscape.
Aperol Spritz takes the national lead
According to the findings, the Aperol Spritz claimed the top spot in 22 states, including influential coastal hubs like California, Oregon, and Washington. Its blend of Aperol, prosecco, and soda water—typically served over ice with a slice of orange—has clearly won over a large share of the American public.
The cocktail’s rise in popularity reflects a growing appreciation for bittersweet and lower-alcohol drinks in the U.S. Once seen as an acquired European taste, the Aperol Spritz is now firmly in the mainstream. “The revelation that Aperol Spritz is the undoubted overall favourite suggests that, while America was once not too fond of drinks containing bitters, tastes over recent years have been steadily evolving,” noted Coffeeness in its report.
Margarita and Old Fashioned hold strong
Close behind was the classic Margarita, which emerged as the top cocktail in 17 states. The drink’s bright blend of tequila, lime juice, and triple sec continues to dominate in both southern and northern states, including Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Tennessee, Maine, and New Hampshire.
Interestingly, Maryland reported a tie between the Aperol Spritz and Margarita, suggesting a state divided between citrus-forward refreshment and complex bitterness.
Third place went to the Old Fashioned—a whiskey-based staple popular in nine states. Its rich, stirred simplicity made it the top choice in traditional whiskey territories like Kentucky, Iowa, and South Dakota. Alaska also listed it as one of two favourites, sharing top billing with the Moscow Mule.
Regional standouts and single-state favourites
While the top three drinks dominated much of the country, a few states showed more individualistic preferences. Alabama stood alone in selecting the Bellini—sparkling wine mixed with peach purée—as its cocktail of choice, likely influenced by the state’s significant peach production, which includes over 80 varieties.
Other one-state champions included:
- Mai Tai in Hawaii
- Mojito in Arkansas
- Daiquiri in Louisiana
- Sidecar in Oklahoma
Alaska, uniquely, couldn’t decide on just one drink and posted a tie between the Old Fashioned and the Moscow Mule, a spicy and zesty cocktail made from vodka, ginger beer, and lime.
Sweet and spicy over creamy
A broader analysis of the data revealed that American cocktail preferences lean heavily toward zesty, sweet, or spicy flavours rather than creamy or dessert-style drinks. Despite Coffeeness’ own hopes, the Espresso Martini—perhaps due to its coffee base and rich profile—failed to top the list in any state.
Similarly, classics like the White Russian received little attention. Instead, drinks that feature citrus, fruit, and spice led the way—possibly reflecting a generational shift in cocktail preferences toward fresher, more sessionable profiles.
Diageo, the global spirits powerhouse, has also been tracking these trends. The company recently used AI to forecast flavour preferences for the summer, identifying a notable rise in interest around spicier ingredients. According to Diageo, online conversations about jalapeños have increased by 32% in the UK, pepperoncini by 53% in Australia, and chilli by 36% in the U.S.—all signs that heat is having a moment in mixology.
As American palates evolve, and as summer cocktail culture continues to grow, the Aperol Spritz appears to have struck a perfect balance between elegance and refreshment. Whether it can hold its crown in coming years remains to be seen, but for now, the bittersweet Italian aperitif reigns supreme.