Gendered Cocktails: Why Some Drinks Are Still Marked for Men or Women

When you hear gendered cocktails, drinks that have been socially labeled as masculine or feminine based on color, sweetness, or serving style. Also known as sexed drinks, they’re the reason you’re told a Mojito is "for her" and an Old Fashioned is "for him. But here’s the truth: taste doesn’t have a gender. The labels? Those were made by advertisers, not bartenders.

Think about it. A Margarita, a tequila-based drink with lime and salt, often served in a wide-rimmed glass with a sugary edge got labeled "feminine" because it’s sweet and colorful. Meanwhile, a Negroni, a bitter, equal-parts mix of gin, vermouth, and Campari, served neat with an orange twist became "masculine"—not because it’s stronger, but because it looks dark and doesn’t come with a tiny umbrella. The same drink, served differently, gets a whole new identity. That’s not about flavor. That’s about marketing.

And it’s not just about what’s in the glass. It’s about who’s pouring it, who’s pictured in the ads, and who’s assumed to "know" what they’re drinking. Women are often steered toward fruity, sugary drinks—even when they ask for something dry. Men are told to avoid anything that looks "pretty," even if it’s just a gin and tonic with a twist. But taste isn’t binary. Your palate doesn’t care if the glass is pink or clear. It cares if the drink is balanced, fresh, or bold. The Aperol Spritz, a light, bubbly Italian aperitif with orange bitterness isn’t a "woman’s drink." It’s a perfect summer drink—full stop. And a Whiskey Sour, a classic mix of bourbon, lemon, and sugar, often shaken with egg white isn’t just for men. It’s for anyone who likes sour, sweet, and smooth in one sip.

The real problem isn’t the drinks. It’s the assumptions. Bars still hand women lemon drops and men neat bourbon without asking. But you don’t need permission to order what you like. The best cocktails aren’t defined by who drinks them—they’re defined by how well they’re made. And the people who know this best? The bartenders. They’ve seen it all. They’ve poured Negronis for brides and Aperol Spritzes for grooms. They don’t care about your gender. They care if you’re happy with what’s in your glass.

Below, you’ll find real talks about what people actually drink, why certain cocktails became famous, and how to pick what suits you—no stereotypes required. Whether you’re into bitter, sweet, fizzy, or strong, there’s a drink waiting for you. And it doesn’t come with a label.