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This study reveals the most popular festive drinks in every U.S. state

Study reveals America's favorite holiday drinks

By Emily Caldwell Published December 4, 2025

Espresso martini cocktail — Africa Studio / Shutterstock

A new study, based on an analysis of Google search trends, revealed the most popular festive drinks in every U.S. state. From a classic hot chocolate to a traditional espresso martini, each state has revealed its clear winners — but is your favorite on the list? Key findings from the study indicate that classic holiday beverages will never go out of style, such as hot chocolate, a fan-favorite winner.

Hot chocolate claimed the top spot in 13 states, representing a classic comfort drink. In second place, two beverages tied: Apple Cider and the Espresso Martini. 11 states each selected the Espresso Martini as their favorite, while a different 11 states selected warm Apple Cider. States where apple cider is the most popular are among the top apple-producing states, such as Virginia, Idaho, North Carolina, and Oregon.

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Beyond hot chocolate, espresso martini, and apple cider, other states ranked champagne-based drinks, French 75, and Amaretto Sour, as their favorite holiday beverages. The study found regional differences in top drinks across states, indicating variations in holiday drinking preferences by geography. Less popular drinks that still earned favorite spots in some states include the brown sugar shaken espresso, hot toddy, winter aperol spritz, mimosa, and bellini.

Arne Preuss, founder of the company in charge of this study, shared: “The espresso martini’s performance in this year’s data represents one of the most significant shifts in American festive drinking culture we’ve seen in recent years. Having seen a revival in popularity just a few years ago, it’s now standing shoulder-to-shoulder with beverages that have defined American holidays for generations.”

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Emily is a Features Writer at The Manual, where she specializes in food, beverage, and travel content. She focuses on weaving…

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