This list is your go-to for everything drinkable from Germany, packing in everything from hearty spirits and creative cocktails to crisp beers, elegant wines, and even the coziest non-alcoholic options.
Whether you’re after something to warm you up or cool you down, I’ve got it all lined up. So, grab a glass and let’s get started on this journey through Germany’s impressive array of beverages, where there’s a drink for every taste and occasion.
1.) German Spirits
1.1.) German Liquor
German Distilled Spirits reflect the country’s rich heritage in distillation, offering a variety of flavors from the smooth Slyrs Bavarian Single Malt Whiskey to the unique Monkey 47 Gin. Embracing local ingredients and traditional methods, these spirits are renowned for their quality and craftsmanship, showcasing Germany’s diverse distilling landscape.
1. Whiskey
German whiskey, a burgeoning category in the spirits world, showcases the country’s precision in distillation and aging. Highlighting regional grains and traditional craftsmanship, German whiskeys offer a unique palate with flavors ranging from the smooth and malty to the rich and peaty, reflecting the diversity of Germany’s landscapes.
- Slyrs Bavarian Single Malt: A pioneer in German whisky, Slyrs is known for its smooth texture and rich flavor profile, embodying Bavarian craftsmanship.
- Finch Schwäbischer Hochland Whisky: Distilled in the Swabian highlands, Finch whisky is celebrated for its distinctive regional character and complexity.
- Elch Whisky: Known for small-batch production, Elch Whisky combines traditional methods with unique local ingredients for a distinct taste.
- Hammerschmiede Spirituosen: Offers an array of artisanal whiskies, renowned for their craftsmanship and depth of flavor, hailing from the Harz region.
2. Brandy
German brandy, or ‘Weinbrand’, is a testament to Germany’s rich winemaking heritage. Distilled from fine wines and aged in oak, these brandies are known for their smooth, refined character, with notes of fruits, oak, and spices, making them a favored choice for sipping and cocktails alike.
- Asbach Uralt: A classic German brandy with a century-old legacy, Asbach Uralt is revered for its smooth, rich flavor and velvety finish.
- Schwarzwälder Kirschwasser: A clear fruit brandy from the Black Forest, distilled from cherries, known for its intense fruit flavor and aroma.
- Jacobi 1880 Weinbrand: A premium brandy that combines tradition and quality, offering a smooth and sophisticated sipping experience.
- Gutshof Kraatz Apfelbrand: Crafted from select apples, this brandy showcases the elegance and purity of German fruit brandies.
3. Vodka
German vodka stands out for its purity and smoothness, often distilled from quality local ingredients like wheat or potatoes. Emphasizing a clean and crisp profile, German vodkas are perfect for both sipping neat and mixing in cocktails, showcasing the country’s dedication to quality and innovation in distillation.
- Berlin Vodka: Reflecting the vibrant spirit of its namesake city, Berlin Vodka is celebrated for its premium quality and clean, refined taste.
- Sash & Fritz: A vodka that marries Russian tradition with German craftsmanship, known for its exceptional smoothness and clarity.
4. Rum
Though not traditionally associated with Germany, German rum has carved a niche with offerings that range from the classic to the innovative. These rums often feature rich molasses flavors, with some aged in oak barrels for added complexity, embodying Germany’s growing expertise in rum production.
- Strothmann Rum: A popular brand known for its smooth, versatile rums that are perfect for cocktails or sipping neat.
- Pott Rum: With a long history in Germany, Pott Rum is renowned for its rich flavor and quality, a staple in traditional rum drinks.
5. Gin
German gin is on the rise, with distillers combining traditional gin botanicals with local herbs and spices to create unique, complex gins. These gins are known for their balance and depth, often reflecting the regional character of the place they are distilled, from the Black Forest to Bavaria.
- Monkey 47: Distinct for its use of 47 botanicals, Monkey 47 is a premium gin from the Black Forest, known for its complex, aromatic profile.
- The Duke Munich Dry Gin: Crafted with organic botanicals, The Duke is a tribute to the art of gin making in Munich, offering a harmonious blend of traditional and Bavarian botanicals.
1.2.) German Liqueurs
1.2.1.) Fruit Liqueurs
6. Berentzen Apfelkorn
- Apple-flavored schnapps
Berentzen Apfelkorn is a popular apple-flavored schnapps, combining sweet, tart apple notes with a smooth, crisp finish. Originating from Germany, this liqueur is enjoyed neat, as a shot, or in cocktails, offering a refreshing taste that’s both versatile and delightful.
7. Echte Kroatzbeere
- Blackberry liqueur
Echte Kroatzbeere, a rich blackberry liqueur from Germany, is known for its deep, berry flavor and velvety texture. This drink captures the essence of ripe blackberries, making it a perfect addition to desserts or served as a sophisticated digestif.
8. Rumtopf
- Fruit and rum preserve
Rumtopf is a traditional German concoction where fruits are preserved in rum and sugar, creating a sweet, potent liqueur. Enjoyed during the festive season, it embodies a blend of various fruits’ flavors soaked in rum, offering a unique, celebratory drink.
9. Schlehenfeuer
- Sloe berry schnapps
Schlehenfeuer is a distinctive German liqueur made from sloe berries, offering a tart, almond-like flavor. This schnapps is known for its rich, ruby color and warming, bittersweet taste, making it a favored choice for sipping in colder months.
1.2.2.) Herbal Liqueurs
10. Jägermeister
- Herbal bitter
Jägermeister, a world-renowned herbal liqueur from Germany, is crafted from 56 different herbs, fruits, and spices. It is renowned for its complex, spicy flavor and is commonly enjoyed as a chilled shot or in cocktails, symbolizing camaraderie and celebration.
11. Waldmeisterlikör
- Woodruff liqueur
Waldmeisterlikör, made from the sweet-scented woodruff plant, offers a unique, herbal sweetness. This German liqueur is celebrated for its refreshing, grassy notes and is often used to enhance the flavor of spring and summer cocktails.
12. Killepitsch
- Herbal bitter
Killepitsch is a premium herbal liqueur from Germany, boasting a rich blend of over 90 fruits, berries, herbs, and spices. Its deep red hue and complex, bittersweet flavor profile make it an excellent digestif or a base for intriguing cocktails.
13. Kräuterlikör
- Digestive bitter
Kräuterlikör, with brands like Underberg, is a traditional German herbal liqueur, renowned for its digestive properties. Featuring a potent blend of herbs, this bitter liqueur is often consumed after meals, offering a spicy, invigorating finish.
1.2.3.) Other Liqueurs
14. Bärenjäger
- Honey liqueur
Bärenjäger is a German honey liqueur, known for its smooth, sweet flavor that perfectly balances the richness of honey with the potency of alcohol. It’s a versatile drink, ideal for sipping neat, in tea, or as a sweetener in cocktails.
15. Doornkaat Korn Schnapps
- Clear grain schnapps
Doornkaat Korn Schnapps is a traditional German spirit, distilled from grain, offering a clean, crisp taste. Its smoothness and purity make it a favorite in Germany, often enjoyed neat or as a base for cocktails.
16. Goldwasser
- Gold flake liqueur
Goldwasser, with its distinctive floating gold flakes, is a visually stunning German herbal liqueur. It combines a sweet, complex herbal flavor with the luxury of real gold flakes, making it a unique choice for special occasions.
1.3.) Other German Spirits
1.3.1.) Schnapps
17. Obstler
- Fruit brandy
Obstler is a traditional German fruit brandy, typically made from apples and pears. It is celebrated for its clear, pure fruit essence and smooth finish, making it a cherished digestif in German culture.
18. Zwetschgenwasser
- Plum brandy
Zwetschgenwasser, a German plum brandy, is known for its rich, fruity flavor and aromatic depth. Distilled from ripe plums, this schnapps offers a warm, lingering taste, perfect for savoring after a meal.
19. Blutwurz
- Root-infused schnapps
Blutwurz is a potent German schnapps infused with the root of the bloodwort plant. It is known for its intense, herbal flavor and is often consumed as a warming drink in colder weather.
20. Himbeergeist
- Raspberry spirit
Himbeergeist is a fragrant German spirit distilled from raspberries. Renowned for its delicate, fruity aroma and light, refreshing taste, it is a popular choice for sipping neat or adding a fruity twist to cocktails.
1.3.2.) Grain Spirits
21. Nordhäuser Doppelkorn
- Double-distilled grain spirit
Nordhäuser Doppelkorn is a premium German grain spirit, known for its double distillation process. This results in a particularly smooth, refined taste, making it a staple in German spirits for its quality and versatility.
1.3.3.) Other Spirits
22. Helbing Kümmel
- Caraway-flavored spirit
Helbing Kümmel is a traditional German spirit flavored with caraway seeds, offering a distinct, aromatic spice profile. It is a celebrated digestif, known for its soothing properties and unique taste, enhancing a variety of cocktails.
2.) German Cocktails & Mixed Alcoholic Drinks
2.1.) German Cocktails
2.1.1.) Beer-Based Mixed Drinks
23. Radler
- Beer with lemon soda
Radler is a refreshing German drink, blending beer with lemon soda or lemonade, creating a light, thirst-quenching beverage perfect for warm days. Its balance of citrus and malt flavors makes it a popular choice for casual sipping and social gatherings.
24. Diesel
- Beer with cola
Diesel combines beer with cola, offering a unique twist on traditional beer consumption in Germany. This mix results in a sweet, malty drink with a caffeine kick, enjoyed by those looking for something different in their beer experience.
2.1.2.) Other Cocktails
25. Berlin Mule
- Vodka, ginger beer, lime
The Berlin Mule is a German take on the classic Moscow Mule, featuring vodka, ginger beer, and a splash of lime. This cocktail is known for its spicy kick and refreshing edge, making it a favorite in Berlin’s vibrant bar scene.
26. Maibowle
- Wine with woodruff
Maibowle, also known as May Wine, is a traditional German spring cocktail made with white wine and sweet woodruff. This aromatic drink captures the essence of spring with its floral, herbaceous flavors, perfect for May Day celebrations.
2.2.) Hot German Alcoholic Beverages
2.2.1.) Wine-Based
27. Glühwein
- Mulled red wine
Glühwein is a staple of German Christmas markets, consisting of mulled red wine seasoned with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and orange. This warm, aromatic beverage is synonymous with winter festivities, offering comfort and cheer during the cold season.
28. Feuerzangenbowle
- Mulled wine with rum
Feuerzangenbowle is a dramatic German holiday drink where rum-soaked sugarloaf is set ablaze and dripped into mulled wine. This creates a rich, potent concoction, celebrated for its festive presentation and deep, complex flavors.
2.2.2.) Other
29. Heißer Apfelwein
- Hot apple wine
Heißer Apfelwein is a warm, comforting beverage made from apple wine, popular in regions like Hesse. This drink is often enjoyed during the colder months, providing a sweet, fruity alternative to traditional mulled wines.
30. Jagertee
- Rum with spiced tea
Jagertee, or “hunter’s tea,” is a warming German-Austrian beverage made by blending rum with spiced black tea. This hearty drink is a favorite among winter sports enthusiasts, offering warmth and rejuvenation after a day in the cold.
31. Lumumba
- Hot chocolate with rum
Lumumba, also known as “Tote Tante” (dead aunt), is a cozy German concoction of hot chocolate spiked with rum. It’s a popular choice for those seeking solace from the winter chill, combining the comforting richness of cocoa with the warmth of rum.
3.) German Brewed & Fermented Alcoholic Beverages
3.1.) German Wine
German Wines are celebrated for their exceptional quality and diversity, from the crisp and aromatic Riesling to the elegant Spätburgunder. Germany’s cool climate and varied terroirs contribute to the unique character of its wines, making them highly sought-after for their balance, precision, and ability to express the essence of their origins.
32. Red Wines
German Red Wines, particularly Spätburgunder and Dornfelder, offer a spectrum from light and fruity to bold and structured. These wines are celebrated for their elegance and depth, with Spätburgunder being Germany’s answer to Pinot Noir, showcasing the country’s cooler climate terroir.
- Spätburgunder: Known as Pinot Noir in other regions, Spätburgunder is Germany’s premier red wine, offering complex flavors of red fruits, earth, and spice.
- Dornfelder: A deeper, more robust German red, Dornfelder is cherished for its rich color, smooth tannins, and fruity notes.
33. White Wines
German White Wines are world-renowned, with Riesling leading the charge, known for its balance of sweetness and acidity. Müller-Thurgau, Silvaner, Grauburgunder, and Gewürztraminer each contribute to Germany’s reputation for crisp, aromatic whites that range from dry to sweet.
- Riesling: The quintessential German wine, Riesling varies from bone-dry to lusciously sweet, always marked by vibrant acidity and a distinctive minerality.
- Müller-Thurgau: A cross between Riesling and Silvaner, this grape produces light, fresh wines with floral and fruity notes.
- Silvaner: Offers understated elegance with subtle flavors, making it a perfect pairing for delicate dishes.
- Grauburgunder: Known internationally as Pinot Gris, Grauburgunder from Germany is full-bodied with a rich texture and notes of ripe fruits.
- Gewürztraminer: Aromatic and expressive, Gewürztraminer is noted for its exotic spice, lychee, and floral aromas.
34. Sparkling Wines
Sekt is Germany’s sparkling wine, made primarily from Riesling, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Noir. It ranges from dry to sweet and is celebrated for its fine bubbles and refreshing acidity, making it a popular choice for celebrations and aperitifs.
- Sekt: Germany’s answer to Champagne, Sekt can be produced using traditional or Charmat methods, offering a diverse range of styles from various regions.
35. Dessert Wines
German Dessert Wines, like Eiswein and Trockenbeerenauslese, are among the world’s most sought-after sweet wines. These wines are known for their concentrated flavors, balancing sweetness with acidity, and are made from grapes affected by noble rot or frozen on the vine.
- Eiswein: Made from grapes frozen while still on the vine, Eiswein is a rare treat, offering intense sweetness balanced by high acidity.
- Trockenbeerenauslese: The pinnacle of German sweet wines, made from shriveled grapes affected by noble rot, offering complex flavors of honey, nuts, and dried fruits.
36. Young Wine
Federweißer is a seasonal young wine, enjoyed in autumn soon after fermentation begins. It’s lightly alcoholic, sweet, and cloudy, offering a unique taste of the wine-making process.
- Federweißer: A traditional autumnal beverage, Federweißer is celebrated for its refreshing and slightly yeasty flavor profile, marking the start of the wine harvest season.
3.2.) German Beer
German Beer is synonymous with purity and tradition, governed by the famed Reinheitsgebot. From refreshing Pilsners to hearty Dunkels, German beers offer a rich tapestry of styles, each with its own history and regional identity. This brewing excellence, steeped in centuries of tradition, makes Germany a true beer paradise.
37. Light Beers
German Light Beers, such as Pilsner, Kölsch, and Helles, are known for their crisp, clean flavors, showcasing the purity of German brewing with a focus on quality ingredients and traditional brewing methods.
- Pilsner: A classic German beer style, Pilsner is characterized by its golden color, crisp flavor, and notable hop bitterness.
- Kölsch: Exclusive to Cologne, Kölsch is a light, refreshing ale-lager hybrid with a clear, bright appearance and a balanced malt-hop profile.
- Helles: A popular style in Bavaria, Helles is a pale lager that is smooth and malty, with a subtle hop character.
38. Wheat Beers
German Wheat Beers, including Weizenbier and Hefeweizen, are beloved for their cloudy appearance, high carbonation, and flavors of banana and clove, resulting from the unique yeast strains used in fermentation.
- Weizenbier: A broad category of wheat beers, Weizenbier is effervescent and refreshing, with a notable yeast-driven character.
- Hefeweizen: A type of Weizenbier, Hefeweizen is unfiltered, retaining yeast that contributes to its distinctive flavors and hazy appearance.
39. Dark Beers
German Dark Beers, such as Dunkel, Altbier, and Schwarzbier, offer a range from malty and sweet to dry and hoppy. These beers are characterized by their deep colors and complex flavor profiles, often with notes of caramel, nuts, and chocolate.
- Dunkel: A traditional Munich-style lager, Dunkel is smooth and malty with a subtle hop bitterness.
- Altbier: Hailing from Düsseldorf, Altbier is an amber, top-fermented beer, known for its balanced malt and hop character.
- Schwarzbier: A black lager from Eastern Germany, Schwarzbier is mild and drinkable, with roasted flavors without the heaviness of stouts.
40. Special Beers
German Special Beers, like Bockbier, Rauchbier, Gose, and Kellerbier, showcase the diversity and innovation within German brewing. These styles range from strong and malty to smoky and sour, each with a unique history and flavor profile.
- Bockbier: A strong lager, Bockbier is rich and malty, traditionally brewed for special occasions.
- Rauchbier: A specialty of Bamberg, Rauchbier is known for its distinctive smoky flavor, derived from malted barley dried over an open flame.
- Gose: Originating from Goslar, Gose is a sour wheat beer with a unique addition of salt and coriander, offering a refreshing tartness.
- Kellerbier: An unfiltered lager that varies in color, Kellerbier is young and naturally cloudy, known for its fresh and vibrant taste.
3.3.) Other German Brewed & Fermented Alcoholic Drinks
41. Apfelwein
- Apple cider
Apfelwein, a traditional German cider, is made from pressed apples. It’s known for its refreshing, crisp, dry and tart taste, often enjoyed in a Bembel (a traditional stoneware jug) and served in a Geripptes (a ribbed glass).
42. Berliner Weiße
- Wheat beer
Berliner Weiße is a cloudy, sour wheat beer from Berlin, known for its low alcohol content and refreshing tartness. It’s traditionally served with a shot of raspberry or woodruff syrup, which adds sweetness and color.
43. Met
- Mead – honey wine
Met, or Mead, is one of the oldest known alcoholic beverages, made by fermenting honey with water. In Germany, it’s enjoyed in various forms, from sweet to dry, and is often associated with medieval festivals and traditions.
4.) Non-Alcoholic German Beverages
4.1.) Cold Non-Alcoholic German Beverages
44. Spezi
- Cola and orange mix
Spezi is a beloved German soft drink, combining the flavors of cola and orange in a refreshing mix. Known for its unique taste, it’s a popular alternative to traditional sodas, offering a sweet, tangy twist that appeals to all ages.
45. Mezzo Mix
- Cola with a hint of orange
Mezzo Mix is a popular German soft drink, featuring the classic mix of cola with a hint of orange. Its refreshing taste makes it a favored choice for those seeking a different twist on traditional cola beverages.
46. Vita Cola
- Herbal citrus cola
Vita Cola is a unique German cola with a distinct citrus flavor, enhanced by a blend of herbs. It stands out in the cola market for its refreshing taste and has a dedicated fan base in Eastern Germany.
47. Fritz-Kola
- Caffeine-rich cola
Fritz-Kola is known for its high caffeine content and commitment to sustainability. Originating from Hamburg, this cola offers a crisp, invigorating taste and is often preferred for its ethical production values.
48. Afri-Cola
- High-caffeine cola
Afri-Cola, a German cola brand, is recognized for its high caffeine content and distinctive flavor. This cult classic stands out with its bold design and has a loyal following thanks to its unique taste and energizing effect.
49. Bionade
- Organic fermented soda
Bionade is an innovative German beverage, brewed organically through fermentation, similar to beer but non-alcoholic. It comes in various flavors, offering a healthy, refreshing option with a distinct, slightly tart taste.
50. Paulaner Spezi (Non-Alcoholic Version)
- Non-alcoholic cola and orange
The non-alcoholic version of Paulaner Spezi maintains the beloved taste of the original cola and orange mix, offering a refreshing, family-friendly beverage option that’s perfect for any occasion.
51. Schorle
- Sparkling fruit juice mix
Schorle is a popular German drink made by mixing fruit juice with sparkling water. It offers a refreshing, less sweet alternative to traditional fruit juices, with apple (Apfelschorle) being a particularly favored variety.
4.2.) Hot Non-Alcoholic German Beverages
52. East Frisian Tea
- Black tea blend with cream
East Frisian Tea is a strong black tea blend traditionally served with cream and rock sugar. This hearty tea is a staple in East Frisia, reflecting the region’s rich tea culture and hospitality.
53. Malzkaffee
- Malt coffee, brewed roasted malt grains
Malzkaffee, or malt coffee, is a German coffee alternative made from roasted malt grains. It offers a warm, comforting flavor without the caffeine, making it suitable for all ages and times of the day.
54. Fassbrause
- Herb-flavored soft drink
Fassbrause is a traditional German soft drink, often flavored with herbs and fruit. It’s a non-alcoholic beverage with a unique taste, enjoyed for its refreshing qualities and often compared to a non-alcoholic beer.
55. German Hot Chocolate
- Rich, creamy cocoa
German Hot Chocolate is known for its richness and creaminess, often made with real chocolate and topped with whipped cream. This comforting drink is a favorite during the colder months, offering a decadent chocolate experience.
56. Kinderpunsch
- Non-alcoholic mulled punch
Kinderpunsch is a non-alcoholic version of traditional German mulled wine, designed for children and those avoiding alcohol. It’s made with a blend of juices and spices, offering a warm, festive beverage perfect for holiday celebrations.