Bartenders (who are basically modern-day psychologists) can tell a lot about a person by what they order. We wondered what this meant for Latino bebidas and the men who drank them. ‘LLERO did some digging to find out what your Latino inspired drink might say about you.
Dos Equis Beer = Mr. Traditional
The man that orders this cerveza has great pride in drinking a Mexican beer and in that country. He takes comfort in familiarity and may not necessarily take risks or venture too far off the beaten path. He may or may not be a starving artist or someone who enjoys a brew after a hard day’s work. The brew itself is a lager originally made by the German-born Mexican brewer Wilhelm Hasse in 1897. The brand was named Siglo XX (“20th century”) to honor the arrival of the new century and was shortly renamed after the symbols, Dos Equis. The label features the face of Moctezuma, the 16th century Aztec ruler. That coupled with the two Xs pays homage to tradition while acknowledging change – unlike our buddy here who stays thirsty for just one beer.
Ron Del Barrilito = Mr. Upscale
A cigar-smoking, aged cognac drinking man is whom you’ll find with this classic rum in his glass. This drink connoisseur is probably used to the finer things in life and is climbing the corporate ladder. He also enjoys being viewed as “old school” and relishes talking smack with his boys. Based out of Bayamón, Puerto Rico, Ron de Barilito is not only the oldest but the favorite Puerto Rican rum drank by hardcore enthusiasts dating back to 1880. Fun fact: One barrel was set aside in 1942 and saved to be opened when Puerto Rico became a free and independent nation. When/if that ever happens, the barrel will be taken to the town square in the center of Bayamón and given out for free. Sadly, locals are still awaiting this event.
Cuba Libre = Mr. Amateur
Guys who don’t ever drink are quick to order this because well, it’s been around for over a hundred years. Walter, a bartender from Camaradas in New York City claims, “You can always tell the amateur drinkers by the way they come in and order anxiously, hanging over the bar.” Most times, they belt out this drink order or some other mixed drink because “it’s so common, it’s one of the few they have heard of.” Some say this cocktail was invented in Cuba during the Spanish-American War in 1898 when a U.S. Captain came into a bar and ordered a Bacardi, and Coca Cola on the rocks with a lime. Other soldiers became interested and ordered it for themselves. When another round was ordered one soldier suggested that they toast ¡Por Cuba Libre! in honor of the newly freed country. Despite its’ manly origins when a man orders this drink he’s showing how green he really is.
Sangria = Mr. Lady Killer
This guy has good taste and is confident enough in his manhood to appreciate a nice glass of wine. He is mature and discerning. Or maybe what he’s really doing is showing off – proving how much classier he is but mostly he is looking for an easy in with the ladies. Sitting next to a pitcher of the delicious wine punch drink from Spain is just the ticket. Based off the red wine punch drank in Europe, Sangria became a popular drink throughout Spain in the 1700-1800’s. It was first introduced to the United States in 1964 at the World Fair and now can be found in many variations all over the world. Tip: Order the Sangria at Camaradas, it’s their signature drink.
Patrón Tequila = Mr. Party Animal
This man is life of any fiesta he attends. These hard-core party types, ready to drink this concentrated happy juice, are not concerned about appearances and they are most likely looking to “hook up” for the evening sans commitment. He is a free spirit, generally outgoing, talkative and fun to be around. Patrón, is made from blue agave and grown in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. While he might seem like a seasoned drinker, steer clear of este tipo if he asks for a mixed drink like a Tequila Sunrise. That earns you a one-way ticket to amateur land (see above). Fun fact: Patrón is sold in hand-blown, individually numbered bottles. Fancy!
No matter what category you may fall in, one thing rings true for all: the person that orders any of the above can also don the moniker “Mr. Orgullo.” You are proud to be Latino and it shows even when you are partying. And why not? When it comes to sabor we have that market cornered.