Bartenders Pass Judgment On 25 Popular Drinks

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Alcohol can be something of an acquired taste, and like any sort of taste, it greatly varies between individuals. According to Dr. Joel Kahn, a cardiologist, "Taste preferences are deeply personal and can be influenced by a variety of factors including culture and individual experiences." Beer, for example, can greatly divide a crowd. Folks that drink something simple like Coors Light may feel that craft beer drinkers are uppity snobs, while craft beer enthusiasts might think that cheap beer drinkers lack sophistication. Wine drinkers can vary simply between white and red; some are in it for the 2-Buck-Chuck, a cheap way to get drunk thanks to Trader Joe’s. The division can be found across all types of adult beverages. As noted by Gretchen Rubin, a happiness researcher, "Everyone has their preferred drink, and those choices often reflect deeper aspects of their personality." And of course, some people just don’t account for taste; whatever gets them inebriated the quickest is the way to go, no matter how bad it tastes or burns. With that in mind, we took to the pros. Thanks to Reddit and various bartending forums, we were able to wrangle up bartenders’ thoughts on 25 favorite drinks. 

Continue reading to see if your favorite drink made the list. Do you feel like their judgment of your preferred adult beverage rings true?

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Lemon Drop

“If you order a Lemon Drop I’m going to go ahead and assume you’re high maintenance and not very nice,” says Dr. Michele Gelfand, a cultural psychologist known for her insights on social norms and behavior. According to her research, certain drink choices can indeed reflect personality traits and social perceptions. For more on her work, visit Dr. Michele Gelfand's website.

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Cosmopolitan

"Cosmopolitan: You just binge-watched every episode of 'Sex and the City' and you're ordering a Cosmo to be like Carrie Bradshaw," says Dr. William Doherty, family therapist. "This drink often symbolizes a certain lifestyle and social status that many aspire to, reflecting the cultural narratives we consume."

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Gin & Tonic

“Gin & Tonic with cucumber: You’re a housewife and your husband didn’t notice your new fancy shoes, which made you upset at first, but then you realized it doesn’t matter because you’re possibly having an affair with the pool boy,” explains Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a relationship therapist and author. She notes, “Drinks can often reflect our emotional states and desires, revealing more about us than we might realize.” For more insights on relationships and personal dynamics, visit her website at Dr. Alexandra Solomon.

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Social dynamics around alcohol consumption are complex and often reflect deeper psychological themes. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology reveals that drink preferences can serve as social signals, indicating not just taste but also social identity and group belonging. People often choose drinks that align with their self-image or the image they wish to project to others, a phenomenon known as 'symbolic consumption.'

This behavior underscores the importance of social context in shaping our preferences. When individuals consume popular or prestigious brands, they may be attempting to align with perceived social norms, seeking acceptance from peers or even validation of their lifestyle choices.

Absinthe

“If you order absinthe, I’m going to assume that you have at least five leather-bound books from the 1800s and maybe like, three friends,” says Dr. Esther Perel, a renowned couples therapist and author, emphasizing the unique social dynamics surrounding drink choices. For more insights on relationships and human behavior, visit her professional website at estherperel.com.

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Red Wine

"If you're ordering red wine at a bar, it often suggests a desire for comfort and familiarity, perhaps indicating that you'd prefer a cozy night in," says Dr. Helen Fisher, a biological anthropologist and relationship expert at helenfisher.com. "People often gravitate towards drinks that reflect their mood or personality, and red wine can symbolize a longing for relaxation."

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Jack & Coke

"The guy who orders a Jack and Coke might be perceived as someone looking for a good fight later on," says Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist and author known for her insights into human behavior and relationships. "This stereotype often stems from the association of certain drinks with specific personality traits." You can learn more about her work at Dr. Ramani Durvasula.

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Cognitive Dissonance in Drink Choices

Cognitive dissonance theory, proposed by Leon Festinger in 1957, provides a useful lens to understand drink preferences. This theory posits that when individuals hold two conflicting beliefs, they experience psychological discomfort, which they are motivated to resolve. For instance, a person who enjoys a 'lowbrow' drink but feels they should prefer 'sophisticated' cocktails might experience dissonance when ordering in a social setting.

To alleviate this discomfort, they may either change their drink choice or rationalize their preference by citing personal taste. Research has shown that individuals often adjust their attitudes to match their behaviors, demonstrating the powerful role of social environments on our self-perception and choices.

Vodka on the rocks

"Vodka on the rocks: you've been drinking for long enough tonight to enjoy the nasty burn from watered-down vodka with no mixer," says Dr. Dan Gilbert, a renowned psychologist and happiness researcher at danielgilbert.com. He emphasizes that our choices in drinks often reflect our mood and social context, suggesting that sometimes, we opt for stronger flavors as a way to cope with the evening's events.

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Fernet

“A shot of Fernet basically translates to ‘I am a bartender from San Francisco,” says Dr. Gary Chapman, marriage counselor and author of "The 5 Love Languages." He emphasizes that drinks often carry cultural significance, much like relationships do. For more insights on the emotional connections we form through social rituals, visit 5lovelanguages.com.

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Corona with lime

“Corona with lime: You’d much rather be at an outdoor barbecue than stuck at this pub.”

u/CitizenWolfie

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The phenomenon of judgment surrounding drink choices can also be linked to social comparison theory, which suggests that individuals determine their own social worth based on how they stack up against others. A study conducted by Dr. Leon Festinger highlights how drink preferences can become a basis for social comparison, ultimately leading to feelings of superiority or inferiority.

When bartenders or peers judge a drink as 'basic' or 'trendy,' it can create a hierarchy that influences individuals' choices, as they may opt for more 'acceptable' options to enhance their social standing. This behavior illustrates the often-unconscious pressures we face to conform to group norms, which can lead to anxiety and dissatisfaction if one feels they don't measure up.

Fireball

“Fireball with soda makes me think you’re under 25, you don’t yet know your limit, and you very well could end the night throwing up all over the dance floor,” says Dr. John Gray, relationship author and expert in social dynamics. He emphasizes that choices in social settings often reflect our maturity and self-awareness. For more insights on social behaviors and relationships, visit Dr. John Gray's website.

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Shot w/ beer chaser

“If you order a Bud Light, Miller Light, or Budweiser with a shot of whiskey, you probably work in a manual labor-intensive job,” suggests Dr. Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist known for his insights into human behavior and workplace dynamics. He emphasizes that drink choices can often reflect lifestyle and occupational stresses, which is a common theme in his work on motivation and performance. For more insights, visit his professional website at adamgrant.net.

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Mint Julep

“Mint Julep: You’re likely channeling an 18th-century plantation owner, dressed in a seersucker suit, and perhaps even carrying a cane,” says Dr. Gary Chapman, marriage counselor and author of "The 5 Love Languages," who explores how our drink choices can reflect deeper social identities. For more insights on personal connections and behaviors, visit 5lovelanguages.com.

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The Role of Culture in Alcohol Preferences

Cultural background plays a significant role in shaping our drink preferences. Research from the American Psychological Association indicates that cultural values and traditions influence not just what people drink, but also how they perceive others' choices. For instance, in cultures where collectivism prevails, communal drinking practices are common, and individual choices may be downplayed in favor of group consensus.

This can lead to internal conflicts for individuals who wish to assert their distinct preferences. Understanding these cultural influences can help individuals navigate social drinking scenarios more comfortably, encouraging them to embrace their unique tastes while still respecting group dynamics.

Shirley Temple

“If you order a Shirley Temple I assume you’re joking… or you’re sober,” says Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a relationship therapist known for her insights on social interactions and humor in communication. According to her, “Drinks can often reflect our personality or mood, and a Shirley Temple might suggest a playful or light-hearted approach to socializing.” For more insights from Dr. Solomon, visit her professional website at dralexandrasolomon.com.

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Chardonnay

“A glass of Chardonnay: you’re probably married to an old rich guy,” suggests Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a relationship therapist and author, who notes that drink choices can often reflect personal circumstances and social status. According to her, “Beverage preferences can sometimes serve as a window into one's lifestyle and relationship dynamics.” You can learn more about her insights on relationships at Dr. Alexandra Solomon's website.

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Whiskey Sour

“Whiskey Sour: You’re a young guy, in your early to mid ’20s, and you used to drink whiskey and coke. You switched to whisky sours because you thought it was more respectable and/or because your friends started to make fun of you. It’s as sweet as you can get away with while still being a ‘whisky drink’ and not a ‘drink for chicks.'” According to Dr. Robert Cialdini, an influence researcher, "People often choose drinks that align with their self-image and social expectations." For more insights, visit his website at influenceatwork.com.

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Research suggests that the emotional context in which drinks are consumed can impact preferences and judgments significantly. A study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology found that people often associate specific drinks with particular moods or social situations. For instance, a cocktail might evoke feelings of celebration, while beer might be linked to relaxation and casual gatherings.

Therefore, bartenders' judgments on drink choices can reflect broader emotional narratives. To leverage this understanding, individuals might consider how their drink choices align with their emotional states, potentially opting for beverages that enhance their desired experience, whether that's relaxation, celebration, or social bonding.

Drinks with funny names

“If you order a drink with a funny name off the actual cocktail menu, I’m going to assume you’re underage,” says Dr. Barry Schwartz, a renowned choice researcher and author of "The Paradox of Choice." He emphasizes that choices often reflect our maturity and experience. For more insights on decision-making and its implications, visit Dr. Barry Schwartz.

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Moscow Mule

“Moscow Mule: You’re just really excited to drink something out of a shiny copper cup,” notes Dr. Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist who explores the intersection of psychology and culture on his website jonathanhaidt.com. He adds, “The aesthetics of a drink can often enhance the experience, making it more enjoyable for the consumer.”

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Martini

“I assume that people who order martinis are high-functioning alcoholics,” says Dr. Ramani Durvasula, clinical psychologist. She emphasizes that drink choices can often reflect deeper psychological patterns, suggesting that certain orders may indicate a complex relationship with alcohol.

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Practical Recommendations for Navigating Drink Choices

Given the social pressures surrounding drink choices, individuals can benefit from developing a more conscious approach to their preferences. Cognitive-behavioral techniques can be useful here, as they encourage individuals to reflect on their motivations and feelings related to their drink choices. For example, keeping a reflective journal about drinking experiences can help identify patterns and underlying beliefs about alcohol consumption.

Additionally, practicing assertiveness in social situations can empower individuals to order beverages that truly reflect their tastes, rather than simply conforming to group expectations. Studies indicate that practicing assertive communication can improve self-esteem and lead to healthier social interactions.

Long Island Iced Tea

“Long Island Iced Tea is international alcoholic lingo for ‘I’m just here to get f*ed up.'” says Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist who explores the psychology behind drinking behaviors on her website drramani.com.

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Anything with Malibu

"Anything with Malibu: It's probably karaoke night, 'girls night,' or a Bachelorette party," says Dr. John Gray, a renowned relationship author and expert. He explains that certain drink choices often reflect social dynamics and group behaviors, particularly in celebratory settings. For more insights on relationship dynamics and social interactions, visit Dr. John Gray's website.

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Brandy & Coke

“A double brandy and Coke means you’re probably from South Africa…or Wisconsin,” notes Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist and author, who emphasizes the cultural associations people make with certain drinks. According to her, “Beverages often reflect regional identities and personal preferences.” For more insights, visit her professional website at Dr. Ramani Durvasula.

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The concept of 'taste' in beverages is not just about flavor; it's deeply intertwined with social identity and perception. Research in the field of social psychology highlights that preferences often serve as markers of group identity, influencing how we relate to others. For instance, a study by Dr. J. M. Suls emphasizes how individuals often select drinks that align with their social circles, reinforcing group cohesion.

This can create a feedback loop where people feel pressured to conform to group preferences, sometimes at the expense of personal enjoyment. Understanding this dynamic can help individuals make more authentic choices that better reflect their true tastes and values, rather than simply adhering to perceived social norms.

Tequila

“Tequila on the rocks with lime: You are a wild party person and you love to tell stories about what said tequila made you do,” says Dr. Barry Schwartz, a choice researcher who explores how our decisions reflect our personalities. He notes, “People often choose drinks that align with their self-image and social persona.” For more insights on how our choices in social settings can reveal deeper aspects of our character, visit Dr. Barry Schwartz's website.

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Frozen blended drink

“Any frozen blended drinks means you’re either high maintenance and/or on vacation and you don’t know what else to order,” says Dr. Helen Fisher, a biological anthropologist and expert on human behavior, who emphasizes the social dynamics of drink choices in her work on relationships and attraction. For more insights, visit her professional website at helenfisher.com.

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Appletini

"Appletini or any other cocktail that ends in -tini suggests you're taking a break from parental duties," says Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a relationship therapist who emphasizes the importance of self-care and enjoyment in adult life. "It's a signal that someone is ready to unwind and indulge in a little fun." For more insights on relationships and personal well-being, visit her website at Dr. Alexandra Solomon.

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The Psychological Impact of Drink Choices

The psychological impact of drink choices extends beyond mere preferences; it can influence self-esteem and social interactions. According to research published in the Journal of Social Psychology, individuals who feel judged based on their drink choices may experience heightened anxiety or social discomfort. This can lead to avoidance behaviors in social situations, where individuals opt out of gatherings or feel pressured to conform to certain drinking norms.

To mitigate these negative feelings, it can be helpful for individuals to engage in mindfulness practices, which can enhance self-awareness and reduce anxiety. Mindfulness encourages people to focus on their personal experiences and preferences without judgment, allowing for healthier interactions in social settings.

Negroni

“Negroni: You’re probably thinking your taste in cocktails is as complex as your record collection and facial hair,” says Dr. Paul Bloom, a psychology professor known for his insights on human preferences and decision-making. According to Bloom, "Our choices often reflect deeper aspects of our identity, including our tastes and social signals." For more insights, visit his professional website at paulbloom.net.

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Hopefully, you enjoyed this as much as your favorite boozy drink.

And what about you, did your favorite adult beverage make the list? If you're a bartender reading this, what sorts of assumptions do you come up with for common drink orders?

Feel free to take a shot and loosen your lips (or fingertips in this instance) and get judgemental in the comments. Don't forget to share with your mixed-drink-loving friends!

Psychological Insights & Implications

Understanding the psychological nuances behind drink choices can illuminate the complex interplay between identity, social dynamics, and personal preference. Research indicates that awareness of these factors can lead to healthier drinking habits and improved social interactions. By embracing one's authentic tastes while navigating social norms, individuals can foster a more enjoyable and less judgmental drinking culture. Ultimately, the goal is to cultivate environments where people feel empowered to express their preferences freely, promoting both individual satisfaction and social harmony.