These Are the Most Expensive Cocktails Ever Made
There are plenty of lavish cocktails, but some drinks steal the show with their outrageous price tags. In an age where bigger is better, bars are scrambling to come up with something unique. Every venue has flashy décor, but that means nothing if there aren’t high quality drinks. While you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy a great cocktail, some people have money to blow on novelty drinks. It’s impossible to attract millionaires with normal prices, so bars have adapted to extravagant demands.
Out of all the cocktails offered at high end establishments, a few exceed $9,000. While this may seem absurd to the average consumer, some people can’t wait to try these insanely priced cocktails. These expensive cocktails showcase the markup potential of fine spirits. Seeing these extremes will make anyone feel better about what they spend at the bar. For this reason, we have compiled a list of the most expensive cocktails in the world. Prepare to be overwhelmed by these larger than life concoctions!
Expensive Cocktails
The world of cocktails includes a range of options, and some establishments are known for crafting particularly expensive or luxurious drinks. The prices of cocktails can vary widely based on factors such as the ingredients used, the location of the bar or restaurant, and the overall experience offered. Here are a few examples of expensive cocktails that were known to exist:
- The Winston (Club 23, Melbourne):
- The Winston, served at Club 23 in Melbourne, Australia, was known for its high price tag. It included two shots of Croizet 1858 Cuvée Léonie cognac, Grand Marnier Quintessence, Chartreuse Vieillissement Exceptionnellement Prolongé, and Angostura bitters.
- The Billionaire Cocktail (Billionaire Mansion, Dubai):
- Created at Billionaire Mansion in Dubai, this cocktail featured a blend of luxury ingredients, including 1990 Croizet cognac, 1888 Gout de Diamants champagne, and gold leaf. The price reflected the opulence of the ingredients.
- The Diamond Is Forever Martini (Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo):
- Served at the Ritz-Carlton in Tokyo, this martini featured Grey Goose vodka and a one-carat diamond at the bottom of the glass. The diamond was intended to be a keepsake for the drinker.
- The Mai Tai at Merchant Hotel (Belfast):
- The Merchant Hotel in Belfast, Northern Ireland, has a renowned Mai Tai cocktail that includes rare and vintage ingredients, such as 17-year-old J. Wray & Nephew Rum and 1950s-era curaçao. This contributes to its high price.
- Salvatore’s Legacy (Playboy Club London):
- Created by Salvatore Calabrese at the Playboy Club in London, this cocktail included ingredients dating back to the 18th century, such as a 1788 Clos de Griffier Vieux Cognac. It held the Guinness World Record for the most expensive cocktail in 2012.
These examples are just a glimpse into the world of high-end cocktails. It’s worth noting that the availability and popularity of expensive cocktails can change, and new creations may emerge. Additionally, specific offerings can vary by location and the expertise of the bartender. If you’re interested in trying an expensive cocktail, it’s advisable to check with upscale bars and establishments known for their craft cocktails.
3 Most Expensive Cocktails In the World
Expensive Cocktail #3: “The World’s Most Expensive Cocktail” ($9,785) – Despite what the name implies, this isn’t the most expensive drink in the world. Even though it doesn’t take the title, it’s still one of the most outrageous cocktails ever created. Retailing at 8,888 euros, this is easily the most expensive drink in London. Even though few can afford it, this wild drink put Gigi’s on the map. This restaurant stole the show in Mayfair neighborhood & has become an international attraction.
Unsurprisingly, this cocktail features some extremely expensive ingredients. It artfully combines 1990 vintage Cristal with 1888 Samalens Vieille Relique Vintage Bas Armagnac. These are some of the rarest spirits in the world, but they aren’t complete without a little bit of gold. Each cocktail is garnished with bits of gold leaf. This is the epitome of extravagance, which is why no normal person will ever try it.
Expensive Cocktail #2: The Ono ($10,000) – In a city that embodies extravagance, simple cocktails don’t cut it. When people haven’t lost enough money at the casinos, they treat themselves to something lavish. The Ono cocktail at the XS Nightclub gives visitors a new way to splurge at the Wynn. With a whopping price tag of $10,000, this drink is nothing short of a work of art.
The Ono contains a luxurious mix of Remy Martin Louis XVIII Black Pearl & Charles Heidsieck Champagne. On top of getting a drink with some of the rarest spirits in the world, the XS Nightclub takes things a step further. Each cocktail comes with a set of custom cuff links along with a gold, diamond & pearl necklace. These features are all paraded to the buyer by 20 sparkler wielding employees. This fanfare & jewelry make this offer enticing, but only a few people can afford this luxury.
Expensive Cocktail #1: The Lobby Lounge & Bar Diamond Shot ($16,000) – Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, the Ritz Carlton offers the world’s most lavish cocktail. Retailing at 1,800,000 yen, this drink is easily worth $16,000. Clients have to make the pilgrimage up to the 45th floor of the hotel to indulge in this notorious cocktail. The drink is made with chilled Grey Goose vodka & served with a lime twist.
While these ingredients are far from exceptional, the garnish takes the drink to a new level. Each shot is decorated with a one-carat diamond. The jury is out on whether you are supposed to drink or save the diamond. This is a puzzling conundrum, but anyone who can afford this drink probably doesn’t care.
