Best North American Beverage Types
Aguas Frescas are light non-alcoholic beverages made with a combination of fruits, cucumbers, flowers, seeds, and cereals blended with sugar and water. The name translates to fresh water, and it is often sold at bodegas and eateries throughout Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean, but it can also be found in Mexican cafés and taquerias throughout USA.
Aguas Frescas come in a variety of flavors such as guava, mango, orange, cucumber, lemon, and tamarind, among others. The beverage is most commonly consumed in the summer months, served cold with pieces of fruit and ice.
A unique, pre-sweetened type of espresso that originated in Cuba known as café Cubano is often referred to as Cuban espresso, Cuban coffee, Cuban pull, or Cuban shot. Although it holds a unique status in Cuba, where it traditionally stands as the essential social and cultural beverage, Cuban espresso is also very popular and widely available throughout Latin America and Florida.
It consists of an espresso shot that is sweetened with demerara sugar while being brewed. This espresso variety is made by brewing the darker roasts with sugar, which results in light-brown foam on top of the coffee. Cuban-style espresso is considered a mid-afternoon standard that is typically served alongside a glass of water.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Coquito is a traditional cocktail similar to eggnog. It is typically prepared and consumed during the festive Christmas season. The cocktail is made with a combination of coconut milk, rum, condensed milk, and vanilla, although every family has their own variation.
In order to prepare it, all ingredients should be blended, then chilled and served in small glasses. It is recommended to garnish coquito with nutmeg on top. The name of this drink means little coconut. In Cuba, they serve it with scoops of coconut ice cream, while the Spanish people serve it with turron.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Lava Flow is a Hawaiian cocktail with numerous variations. It can be blended or shaken. The blended version is typically made with a combination of coconut rum, light rum, pineapple juice, coconut cream, bananas, and frozen strawberries.
In order to prepare it, rums and strawberries are blended separately from other ingredients, but they are later combined in a collins or hurricane glass so that the strawberries swirl in the drink, creating an effect similar to that of lava flow. If shaken, strawberries and a slice of banana should be muddled in the bottom of a glass, then combined with ice and shaken coconut cream, pineapple juice, and rum.
The cocktail is then garnished with a pineapple wedge and a paper parasol, if desired.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Sugary, refreshing, and herbaceous, Mojito is a traditional cocktail based on rum as the key ingredient. It has a relatively low alcohol content (about 10%). Although Havana is considered its birthplace, the origin of this simple cocktail is still disputed.
The original Cuban cocktail recipe includes white rum, sugar, lime juice, soda water, and spearmint yerba buena that grows on the island, but almost every mint variety can be used in the mix if yerba buena is not available. The components of the cocktail are added in a particular order: sugar and lime juice are gently mashed before mint and rum are added to the combination; the cocktail is then briefly stirred and topped with ice and sparkling soda water.
VARIATIONS OF Mojito
MAIN INGREDIENTS
In its basic form, horchata is a rice-based drink made by soaking rice in water, typically together with cinnamon. The combination is blended, usually sweetened, and strained to reach a smooth, creamy texture. Horchata has a long history and most likely European and African roots.
In Latin America, the name is now mostly used as a generic term for a broad category of related drinks—they are based on grains, fruits, seeds, and sometimes even herbs and spices. Horchata most likely originated in Mexico, where it has been known since the 16th century.
VARIATIONS OF Horchata (Mexico)
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Guarapo is a Latin American drink made from raw, pressed sugarcane juice mixed with water, ice, and lots of fresh limes. Most often, the vendors that sell it will extract the sugar cane juice right on the spot using a metal sugar cane press.
The juice drips into a bucket below the press where it’s sieved before serving. It has a slightly sweet flavor, and it’s most popular in the summer as a cold refreshment. The word guarapo was first recorded in the 19th century by Esteban Pichardo, who defines it as a broth or a liquid made from sugarcane juice, extracted under pressure.
Extra añejo tequila variety is matured for at least three years in oak barrels that have a maximum capacity of 160 gallons (600 liters). Longer aging time creates a drink of exceptional quality, and ultra-aged tequila varieties are typically incredibly complex, with a dark golden hue, and a mellow and long finish.
They are occasionally marketed as Reserva and usually come with a high price tag.
THE BEST Extra añejo tequila Spirits
Avion Tequila
Reserva 44 Extra Añejo
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2023
Licuado is a Mexican blended beverage consisting of milk, fresh fruit, and ice. The drink is popular throughout Latin America, where it is also known as batido. The beverage gained fame in the USA during the immigration period in the 1990s.
Licuado, which means blended or liquefied, may also contain nuts, honey, and spices such as vanilla, cloves, or cinnamon, while in some varieties fruit can be replaced with chocolate. Due to its nutritive value, licuado is considered a quintessential breakfast food providing energy for the day, and it is usually served in a tall glass garnished with fruit.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Rum Punch is a classic Caribbean cocktail made with rum, fruit juice, sugar syrup, and water. To prepare it, all you need to do is remember this Caribbean saying: “One of sour, two of sweet, three of strong, and four of weak.” A shot of fruit juice, two shots of sugar syrup, three shots of rum, and four shots of water are combined in a big glass or a jug, then poured into a glass over ice.
It is recommended to add a few drops of bitters or some freshly grated nutmeg to elevate the flavors even further. Garnish it with a pineapple wedge for the best possible experience.
Best North American Beverage Producers
Inniskillin Winery, located in the heart of Canada’s wine region in Niagara-on-the-Lake, is renowned for producing world-class wines that have won international awards and recognition. Founded in 1975, Inniskillin is a pioneer in Canadian winemaking, especially known for its exceptional ice wines.
Their dedicated approach to viticulture, combined with rich vineyards on the shores of Lake Ontario, allows them to produce wines that reflect the uniqueness of Canada’s nature and terroir. The winery prides itself on using only the highest quality grapes, often handpicked, ensuring the excellence of every vineyard.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2019
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2021, 2016
Vivino - 4.5
BEST Inniskillin Winery Wines
Wild Orchard is a premium tea company specializing in organic and regeneratively farmed teas, grown on Jeju Island, South Korea. They offer a range of high-quality teas, including green tea, oolong, and matcha, which are all cultivated without the use of sprays, fertilizers, or irrigation.
The farm's unique growing conditions, including volcanic soil, ocean mist, and subtropical rain, contribute to the rich flavor and phytonutrient content of the teas. Wild Orchard focuses on sustainable, organic farming practices to produce exquisite, clean, and delicious teas that cater to health-conscious consumers.
AWARDS
Golden Leaf Awards - Gold
2023, 2021
Great Taste Awards - 2 stars
2022
Great Taste Awards - 1 Star
2022
BEST Wild Orchard Tea Company Teas and Herbal Infusions
Quails' Gate Winery is one of the most prestigious and respected wineries in Canada, located in the heart of the Okanagan Valley wine region in British Columbia. With a rich family tradition dating back to 1956, the winery prides itself on crafting wines that express the unique character of the region’s soil and climate.
Renowned for premium varietals such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Quails' Gate combines meticulously cared-for vineyards, expert winemaking, and a strong commitment to sustainable practices. The winery continually invests in innovation and quality, ensuring that every step of the process—from harvest to bottling—is designed to produce wines that exceed expectations.
AWARDS
Vivino - 4.5
Vivino - 4.2
Vivino - 4.1
BEST Quails' Gate Winery Wines
Pluck Tea’s Canadian teas represent the perfect blend of traditional love for tea and innovative, modern approaches. This Toronto-based company is renowned for crafting premium teas, hand-blended in small batches to ensure high quality and freshness in every package.
Pluck Tea takes pride in its commitment to local and sustainable practices - each tea uses Canadian ingredients, often sourced from nearby regions, such as lavender from Prince Edward Island and grape skins from southern vineyards. Always aiming to provide a unique experience for every tea lover, Pluck Tea offers a variety of blends - ranging from rich black teas with full-bodied flavors to refreshing green teas, calming herbal infusions, and exotic rooibos.
BEST Pluck Tea Teas and Herbal Infusions
Pillitteri Estates Winery represents the pinnacle of dedication, tradition, and innovation in the world of winemaking. Their wines reflect a deep respect for nature and the art of crafting authentic flavors. Specializing in Icewine, Pillitteri stands out as one of the most awarded producers of this prestigious style globally.
With carefully cultivated vineyards and a meticulously controlled production process, each bottle offers exceptional aroma, balance, and elegance. Their portfolio includes both classic and innovative wines, crafted for true enthusiasts and connoisseurs.
Reid's Distillery is a family-run craft distillery devoted to the art of exceptional gin making, where passion for quality, tradition, and modern creativity come together in every bottle. Their gins are crafted using Canadian wheat and a thoughtful blend of botanicals, with wild-foraged Canadian juniper taking center stage to deliver a truly distinctive flavor profile.
Inspired by a spirit of exploration and a desire to create something uniquely their own, Reid’s combines classic distillation techniques with a bold, contemporary approach. The result is a collection of gins that are elegant, nuanced, and instantly memorable—ranging from timeless dry styles to inventive, aromatic expressions.
Blindman Brewing is an award-winning craft brewery located in Lacombe, Alberta, Canada. Founded in 2014, the brewery is dedicated to producing innovative and high-quality beers using the best, often locally sourced, ingredients. Since its inception, Blindman Brewing has been committed to creating beers that not only satisfy the palate but also inspire new perspectives on what craft beer can be.
With a focus on innovation, its brewers carefully select ingredients to craft beers that are rich in flavors and full of character. The brewery takes pride in its wide range of beers, from light ales to complex and aged barrel-aged brews. One of their most well-known beers is Dwarf Sour Cherry, celebrated for its balanced sour and fruity notes.
Jackson-Triggs is a symbol of dedication, innovation, and excellence in the world of winemaking. Their philosophy blends a modern approach with a deep respect for tradition, resulting in wines that captivate both the palate and international acclaim.
Renowned for their diversity and consistent quality, Jackson-Triggs offers everything from approachable everyday wines to limited-edition releases that showcase the true character of each varietal. Every bottle reflects craftsmanship, experience, and a meticulous attention to detail.
But Jackson-Triggs is more than just wine—it’s about creating meaningful experiences. Whether through the enjoyment of their wines or the cultural events they host, every encounter with the brand is a reflection of their commitment to excellence and lasting impressions.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2022, 2020, 2019
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2022
BEST Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate Winery Wines
Prairie Berries is a Canadian company specialized in the cultivation, processing, and distribution of Saskatoon berries – an indigenous fruit that has been used for centuries across the North American continent. Founded with the vision of showcasing the unique potential of this berry, the company has become a recognizable brand in the natural, functional food industry.
Since its inception, Prairie Berries has been committed to sustainable farming practices and the highest standards of quality. Their farm, spanning hundreds of acres, utilizes modern technologies and techniques that protect the soil, water, and natural balance, while ensuring top-quality yields.
Ampersand Distilling is a family-run distillery devoted to the craft of spirit-making that blends technical precision, artistic expression, and a deep commitment to quality. Their philosophy, reflected in the very name "Ampersand," symbolizes the union of seemingly opposite worlds—science and tradition, craftsmanship and innovation, simplicity and complexity.
Driven by a passion for creating something genuine and enduring, the team meticulously oversees every step of the process—from selecting ingredients to refining the final flavor profile—ensuring that each spirit embodies character, clarity, and consistency.
Best North American Beverages
Inniskillin Vidal Icewine 2022 is an exceptional Canadian dessert wine that reflects Inniskillin’s commitment to creating world-class ice wines. Made from 100% Vidal Blanc grapes from vineyards in the Niagara region, this wine offers a wealth of aromas and flavors that captivate wine lovers.
The wine has a deep golden color with hints of orange, indicating its maturity. The aromas are rich and varied, with prominent notes of roasted pineapple peel, candied papaya, creamy peach, apple pie spice, and fragrant nectar. On the palate, this ice wine is full and rich, with vibrant acidity and bubbles that cut through its dense texture.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2024
Georgian Bay Berry is a herbal blend that brings the essence of Canadian nature into every cup. This caffeine-free rooibos tea features rich flavors of wild raspberry and blueberry, carefully combined with dried goji berries, calendula petals, and apple pieces.
Inspired by the founder's childhood experiences of foraging for fruits around Georgian Bay, this tea offers an authentic Canadian taste that transports you to nature with every sip. Georgian Bay Berry is perfect for those seeking a refreshing beverage, whether enjoyed hot during the colder months or iced on a warm summer day.
This caffeine-free rooibos tea is enriched with authentic Canadian maple syrup and naturally sweet licorice root, creating a harmonious balance between rich and subtle flavors. The addition of freshly roasted cocoa husks from Toronto adds depth and sophistication to this unique blend.
With the natural sweetness of maple syrup, the tea offers a mild yet rich flavor. The calendula petals in this blend contribute delicate floral notes that balance the overall experience. This tea is the perfect choice for those who appreciate distinctive Canadian flavors, providing enjoyment in every sip.
Reid’s Signature Gin is an elegant dry gin that blends timeless distilling traditions with Canadian character and a modern approach to flavor. Crafted from high-quality Canadian wheat and infused with hand-harvested Canadian juniper and wild sweet fern, it delivers a perfectly balanced profile—crisp, aromatic, and refreshing, with subtle earthy and piney notes.
Its refined composition makes it exceptionally versatile—ideal for a classic gin and tonic, a sophisticated martini, or inventive cocktails. Whether sipped neat, over ice, or mixed, Reid’s Gin offers an experience that brings together tradition, nature, and artisanal skill in every drop.
AWARDS
World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2023
Ampersand Gin is a refined, small-batch gin that perfectly blends the art and science of distilling. Crafted with precision and care, it features a balanced infusion of seven carefully selected botanicals, including juniper, coriander, angelica root, cardamom, lemon peel, sweet almond shells, and licorice.
Distilled from locally grown wheat, it offers a crisp and refreshing profile, with subtle citrus and spice notes that create an exceptionally smooth finish. Its elegance and complexity make it a versatile choice—equally at home in a classic martini or gin and tonic, yet refined enough to be enjoyed on its own.
AWARDS
World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2022, 2021
Spring Black is a refined, smooth black tea from Wild Orchard Tea Company, known for its delicate and flavorful profile. It features malt and dried stone fruit notes, making it a well-rounded tea that can be enjoyed both with and without milk. This tea is made from Regenerative Organic Certified organic black tea, showcasing Wild Orchard’s commitment to sustainable farming practices.
The tea can be brewed multiple times, and for the best flavor, it’s recommended to steep it for a few minutes at the right temperature. The aroma is similarly complex, combining sweet and fruity fragrances that enhance the overall tasting experience.
AWARDS
Golden Leaf Awards - Gold
2023
Jackson-Triggs Reserve Vidal Icewine 2018 is a luxurious Canadian dessert wine crafted from the Vidal Blanc grape, known for its ability to retain freshness and develop rich flavors under extreme conditions. This Icewine opens with enchanting aromas of dried apricot, orange zest, peach, white plum, and stewed pear.
On the palate, it offers a luscious balance of honeyed sweetness and bright acidity, revealing layered notes of cooked pear, papaya, and stone fruit, all wrapped in a smooth, lingering finish. Ideal when served chilled, it pairs beautifully with dishes like seared scallops, sushi, spicy Thai cuisine, fresh fruit desserts, crème brûlée, and cheeses such as triple cream Brie, goat cheese, or Parmesan.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2022
Pluck Tea - Classic Earl Grey is an elegant and aromatic tea that delights with its sophisticated flavor. Inspired by traditional recipes, this blend brings together the perfect combination of black tea and delicate notes of bergamot, giving it a distinctive citrus freshness.
Every cup of this tea provides a calming moment, ideal for unwinding after a busy day or as a refreshing start to your morning ritual. The high-quality tea leaves are carefully selected and paired with natural bergamot essences, making each sip rich and harmonious.
Pluck Tea - Earl Grey Cream is the perfect blend of classic Earl Grey flavor and subtle, creamy notes. This tea is carefully selected and crafted from high-quality black tea leaves, enriched with the natural aroma of bergamot, which provides a distinctive citrus fragrance.
You'll enjoy the richness of flavors that unfold in your mouth, with a creamy finish that strikes the perfect balance between brightness and smoothness. Pluck Tea - Earl Grey Cream offers a unique experience that combines tradition with a modern, delicate touch, creating an unforgettable moment of enjoyment with every sip.
2018 Gold Label Oak Aged Vidal Icewine is an exceptional Canadian dessert wine that boasts richness of flavor and complexity. This specialty comes from the renowned Inniskillin winery, known for producing top-quality ice wines. The wine is made from the Vidal grape variety, which is ideal for creating icewine due to its ability to maintain high acidity while offering rich aromas. 2018 Gold Label Oak Aged Vidal Icewine features a golden-yellow color and a mature, complex aroma.
The nose is filled with rich notes of honey, ripe fruits like peach and pineapple, along with subtle woody hints from aging in oak barrels. On the palate, the wine is incredibly balanced, with the sweetness derived from the concentrated sugars of the ice-harvested grapes, yet it maintains enough freshness from its natural acidity.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2022
Vivino - 4.3
Barrell Craft Spirits Private Release Whiskey Finished in a Pedro Ximenez Sherry Barrel DSX3 American Whiskey
Heaven Hill Distillery William Heavenhill 9th Edition 15 YO Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 100 North American Beverages” list until April 11, 2025, 10,061 ratings were recorded, of which 7,841 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.