It’s spicy, bold, and gives cocktails a serious kick: it’s ginger beer! Ginger beer is a carbonated drink with a strong ginger flavor that has been around since the 18th century. Its bold taste makes it the star ingredient in countless cocktails, with just the right amount of zing to the mix.
From the iconic Moscow Mule to the stormy drama of a Dark ‘n’ Stormy, ginger beer has become a must-have for any (home) bar. It mixes perfectly with vodka, rum, tequila, whiskey and many more, which makes it one of the most versatile mixers.
Ready to add some spice to your drinks? Here are the top ginger beer cocktails you need to try!
11 Top Ginger Beer Drinks with Easy Recipes
Dark & Stormy
This one’s a classic for a reason. Dark rum and ginger beer come together with a splash of lime for a bold, spicy drink, and refreshingly smooth drink. It’s basically the perfect storm in a glass—stormy vibes included.
Perfect Storm
Think Dark & Stormy, but with spiced rum for an extra kick. Add lime juice, and you’ve got a zesty, slightly fiery cocktail that’s as dramatic as its name suggests.
Moscow Mule & Family
The Moscow Mule is the OG of ginger beer cocktails, blending vodka, lime, and spicy ginger beer in its iconic copper mug. It’s fresh and fizzy, with plenty of cousins—swap vodka for bourbon (Kentucky Mule), tequila (Mexican Mule), or gin (London Mule) for easy variations.
Gin-Gin Mule
This one’s like the lovechild of a Mojito and a Moscow Mule. Gin, mint, lime, fresh ginger and ginger beer make for a bright, herbal cocktail that’s perfect when you want something light but full of flavor.
Suffering Bastard
Don’t let the name scare you—this cocktail is bold and balanced. It’s a mix of gin, bourbon, lime, Angostura bitters and ginger beer and was originally invented as a hangover cure. Whether you need it for that or not, it’s a fun, punchy drink.
Ginger Spritz
If ginger beer and Prosecco got together, you’d get this light, bubbly delight. Add a splash of Lillet Blanc, a slice of fresh ginger and you’ve got a refreshing spritz perfect for lazy afternoons or celebrations.
Bufala Negra
This one’s a bit of a wild card. Bourbon, balsamic syrup, fresh basil, and ginger beer sound like an odd mix, but trust us, it works. Sweet, tangy, and earthy—it’s a cocktail that’ll surprise you in the best way.
Rhode Island Red Cocktail
This vibrant cocktail combines tequila, Chambord, and a touch of lemon juice with the spicy kick of ginger beer. Agave nectar adds just the right sweetness, while a dash of orange bitters ties everything together. With its tangy, fruity, and slightly spicy profile, it’s a fun, crowd-pleasing drink with just the right balance of sweet and sour.
Waterfront Cocktail
The Waterfront is a cool and minty cocktail: Fernet-Branca and Branca Menta bring bold herbal complexity, balanced by a splash of lime juice and the zing of ginger beer. Topped with a sprig of mint, it’s crisp, refreshing, and perfect for fans of bold & bitter flavors.
Brazilian Buck
Cachaça (Brazilian sugarcane spirit), lime, and ginger beer make for a tropical twist on the classic Buck cocktail. It’s fresh, zesty, and just the right amount of exotic.
El Diablo
This one’s got a bit of bite. Tequila, crème de cassis, lime, and ginger beer come together for a fruity, spicy, slightly edgy cocktail perfect for anyone who likes drinks with a little devilish charm.
Types of Ginger Beer: Sweet, Spicy, and Dry
Ginger beer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It comes in a variety of styles:
- Sweet Ginger Beer leans towards a smoother, milder flavor with less intense ginger spice. It’s perfect for balancing strong spirits or for those who prefer a sweeter, less fiery drink kick.
- Spicy Ginger Beer adds a zesty edge to cocktails. It pairs wonderfully with rum in a Dark & Stormy or with whiskey in a Buck, where its kick complements the depth of the spirit.
- Dry Ginger Beer is less sweet and more focused on sharp, crisp ginger flavors, dry ginger beer is ideal for cutting through rich or sweet cocktails.
Most types today are non-alcoholic, but the original versions were brewed as alcoholic beverages as a fermentation process is involved in the making of traditional ginger beer.
FAQs
What’s the difference between Jamaican and regular ginger beer?
Jamaican ginger beer is typically spicier and has a stronger ginger kick than standard ginger beers, which are milder and sweeter.
Does ginger beer go flat in cocktails?
Ginger beer retains its fizz longer than soda but can go flat if left open or mixed too far in advance. Pour at the last minute and serve cocktails immediately for the best effervescence.
Does ginger beer need to be refrigerated after opening?
Yes, refrigerate ginger beer after opening to preserve its fizz and flavor. Consume within a few days for the best taste and fizziness.
Can ginger beer cocktails be batched for a party?
Yes, ginger beer cocktails can be pre-mixed, but add the ginger beer just before serving to keep the fizz intact.
