This Is AmericaLists and lists of the things that make each US State unique, from the weirdest laws to the most popular drinks and dog breeds to the shows residents are streaming most on Netflix.
What is the most popular cocktail by state? Some of these are pretty obvious. Everyone is going to try a Mint Julep if they’re in Kentucky during Derby season. But who knew that Wisconsinites consume half of the world’s brandy supply, simply based on their love of one drink?
This roundup is all about the mixed drink. We may automatically think of wine when we hear about California’s alcohol consumption, or beer when we're heading through Colorado. But all of these beverages contain at least two ingredients mixed together to create a concoction good enough for a whole state to get behind.
These may not be the “official” cocktails of every state, but they're definitely the drinks that you have to try if you go to these places. Here is every state's signature cocktail.
Football fans drink the sweet and fruity Yellow Hammer while cheering on their beloved Alabama Crimson Tide. The cocktail is named after Alabama's yellow state bird and is a blend of Malibu rum, vodka, orange juice, and pineapple juice.
Yellow Hammers are sold by the thousands on game day.
The original Tequila Sunrise was invented poolside in the 1930s and consisted of tequila, crème de cassis, lime juice, and soda water. The idea for the drink was inspired by the pretty sunsets of Arizona.
Today, bartenders traditionally substitute grenadine for cassis in order to create the effect of a sun rising inside a glass.
The cocktail named after the University of Arkansas mascot, Big Red the razorback hog, consists of vodka, amaretto, coffee liqueur, and spiced rum.
During game time, fans do their signature chant, the Hog Call, which involves a "Wooooooo" while wiggling fingers on raised hands, and screaming the words "Pig Sooie!"
For people who want to skip the Napa Valley wines and enjoy something a little more fruity, the Golden State is known for the Mai Tai, invented at the iconic drinking establishment Trader Vic's.
The Polynesian-inspired drink is perfect for days spent chilling on the beach. It usually consists of rum, Curaçao liqueur, orgeat syrup, and lime juice.
The Dude would definitely abide by a Colorado Bulldog, which is named after the Colorado State University English Bulldog mascot.
The only difference between the Colorado Bulldog and a White Russian is that the former features a splash of cola, while a typical White Russian only includes vodka, Kahlúa, and heavy cream.
