Just when you thought you knew all about German beer culture, think again! Germany has a treasure trove of beverages beyond the famous Oktoberfest brews. From Pilsner to Weissbier and everything in between, their traditional beers are a staple of German celebrations. But that’s not all – Germany also boasts an impressive selection of wines, as well as unique cocktails and mixtures that are just waiting to be discovered.
A closer look at some of these lesser-known concoctions reveals that they can be easily made with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re planning a German-themed party or simply want to spice up your beverage repertoire, this guide has got you covered. In the following pages, we’ll present ten traditional German drinks that are sure to become new favorites, including a special bonus section dedicated to festive drinks perfect for any celebration.
Radler
Beyond its simplicity, Radler has an unmistakable German flair that originates from the picturesque region of Bavaria, where this refreshing drink was born. This revitalizing beverage is a perfect choice to quench your thirst during the warm summer months and offers a great alternative to traditional shandy. For those who enjoy the classic combination of beer and lemonade, Radler can be an excellent option to try.
To prepare this delightful drink, you’ll want to use a high-quality German lager such as Pilsner or Munich Helles in equal parts with chilled sparkling lemonade, served with a sprig of rosemary or a slice of lemon for added flavor and visual appeal.
Kiba
Zero in on this refreshing German smoothie recipe, which is surprisingly easy to make by blending a few simple ingredients. Simply blitz two frozen bananas with some fresh banana and almond milk to create the base of your Kiba smoothie. Next, pour the mixture into glasses, then blend another frozen banana with pitted cherries and almond milk. Finally, top off each glass with this vibrant layer for a visually appealing treat that’s perfect for warm weather.
Spezi
Joining its German counterpart in the simple yet effective formula for creating an invigorating drink, Spezi relies on just two primary ingredients. Measure out two parts of cola to every one part of sparkling orange juice, then gently combine and serve over ice.
Afelschorle
Generally, Afelschorle is a popular German drink that combines the best of both worlds: the sweetness of apples and the fizziness of carbonated water. This refreshing beverage is perfect for pairing with meals, whether it’s a light lunch or a hearty dinner. In its traditional form, Afelschorle consists of equal parts apple juice and sparkling water, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
Altbierbowle
Making beer-based drinks is always exciting, but today we’re going to create something special – the Altbierbowle. This unique drink requires Altbier, a type of beer originating from Düsseldorf that falls somewhere in between an ale and a lager. To make it, pour some Altbier into a large bowl, then mix with your preferred fruit syrups along with slices of fresh strawberries and raspberries to create the perfect blend.
Savoy Affair
Vibrant flavors abound in the indulgent Savoy Affair cocktail, featuring a delightful lime sugar rim that adds a burst of citrus to each sip. This unique blend is crafted by combining peach brandy, passionfruit juice, strawberry liqueur, and freshly squeezed lime juice in a double-cocktail glass before topping it off with a luxurious splash of Champagne.
Kirsch Rose Cocktail
Romancing the senses, this elegant cocktail transports you to the City of Light, despite its German roots, thanks to the use of morello cherries in Kirsch. The Kirsch Rose Cocktail has an alluring aroma and a delicate touch that invites sipping slowly. To recreate it at home, mix one ounce each of grenadine and dry vermouth with 1.5 ounces of Kirsch in an ice-filled cocktail shaker, shaking vigorously to combine the flavors.
Pour the mixture into a chilled glass and top off with a maraschino cherry garnish for a sophisticated finish.
Hugo Cocktail
Tucked away in German bars and restaurants is a refreshing drink that’s often misunderstood by visitors – the Hugo. While its name may evoke images of a fancy cocktail, it’s actually a champagne apéritif that’s similar to a Mojito in many ways. Like its Mojito counterpart, a Hugo begins with muddled mint leaves and lime slices, setting the stage for the drink’s crisp and revitalizing flavors.
However, things take a distinct turn when elderflower syrup is added, giving the Hugo a unique twist on traditional champagne cocktails. To complete the drink, add a splash of Champagne and some sparkling water to create those essential bubbles, then top it off with ice and garnish with a sprig of mint and a lime slice for a truly authentic experience.
Gin Basil Smash
Undoubtedly one of the most refreshing cocktails to emerge from Germany in recent years, the Gin Basil Smash has made quite an impact on the mixology scene. With its simplicity and elegance, it’s no wonder this drink has gained popularity worldwide. The cocktail’s creation is attributed to the talented bartenders at Le Lion in Hamburg, who first concocted it as recently as 2008.
When preparing a Gin Basil Smash, the process begins with muddling fresh basil leaves with lemon juice and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. A generous pour of gin and ice are then added before vigorously shaking until chilled. The mixture is subsequently strained into an old-fashioned glass filled with ice, where a sprig of basil adds a pop of color and fragrance to the presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Surprisingly, Germany’s most popular beverage is not beer or wine, despite its reputation for indulging in alcohol and fizzy drinking water. While it may come as a surprise to some, mineral water takes the top spot as the most consumed and purchased beverage in Germany. This might be due to the fact that Germans tend to prioritize their health and wellness, opting for a low-calorie and refreshing drink option.
Other popular beverages in Germany include caffeinated coffee and fruit juices, which are often consumed throughout the day. However, when it comes to after-dinner drinks, many Germans prefer something stronger than beer or wine. In fact, liqueurs such as bittersweet varieties and eau de vies, which are spirits made from fruit, are popular choices for winding down after a meal.
Germany’s love for liqueurs is evident in its long history of distillation and production, with many artisanal brands available across the country.
Directions
Just follow these simple steps to get started with your chosen dish. First, select one from the provided list by clicking on the recipe name and visiting its corresponding webpage. Next, gather all the necessary ingredients based on the specific recipe’s requirements. Once you have everything ready, it’s time to cook! Finally, don’t forget to savor your culinary creation and leave a review for others to enjoy.
