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How do people drink Jim Beam bourbon around the world?
Jim Beam has been part of celebrations, traditions, and quiet moments in more than 100 countries around the world.
Whether it’s poured over ice, served in a highball, or mixed into a cocktail, people everywhere have found their own answer to how to drink bourbon—a reflection of the diverse customs and preferences that make it a truly global spirit.
Bourbon in the U.S
In its home country, Jim Beam is an essential part of American whiskey traditions. Bourbon is enjoyed in every way possible—neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails that range from traditional to innovative.
For an easy, refreshing serve that fits backyard BBQs, game days, and laid-back get-togethers, many Americans reach for a Jim Beam and Lemonade. It’s a simple mix that lets bourbon’s vanilla and oak notes show up while the lemonade brings a bright, tart citrus lift—finished with a splash of soda water for extra crispness—easy to make, easy to share, and built for warm-weather sipping.
And when the occasion calls for something more classic, the Mint Julep, long associated with the Kentucky Derby, is a warm-weather staple. For a different take on tradition, the Old Fashioned is the bourbon cocktail you’ll find everywhere from neighbourhood bars to steakhouse menus, its subtle sweetness and orange peel twist designed to let bourbon’s vanilla and oak notes take centre stage.
Bourbon in Japan
In Japan, the preferred serve is often simple and elegant: bourbon and soda water over ice, garnished with a citrus peel. Known as a Highball, this serve aligns perfectly with Japanese drinking culture—balanced, clean, and refreshing.
Jim Beam Highballs are especially popular bourbon cocktails in izakayas (Japanese pubs), where they're enjoyed alongside small dishes of food. And when people want it a little more citrus-forward, a Jim Beam & Lemonade is a go-to—bright, crisp, and made to pair with everything on the table. The lower alcohol content and effervescence make it easy to drink over a longer evening, and it pairs effortlessly with everything from grilled skewers to sashimi.
Bourbon in Europe
In countries like Germany, France, Spain and the UK, bourbon has found its place among wine, beer, and local spirits. Jim Beam often features in cocktail bars where mixologists experiment with seasonal ingredients, liqueurs and fruit infusions. A Whiskey Ginger or Boulevardier made with Jim Beam offers a spicy-smooth foundation for more adventurous pairings.
In Germany, Jim Beam is frequently mixed with cola—sometimes in pre-bottled formats. From bars to supermarkets, the bourbon and cola combination remains a favorite, with canned mixes offering an easy way to enjoy the classic pairing on the go.
Bourbon in Australia & New Zealand
In Australia, bourbon is often synonymous with casual enjoyment. Jim Beam & Cola cans are a staple at festivals, beach gatherings, and BBQs. And when the weather’s hot, a Jim Beam & Lemonade is another easy favorite—bright, refreshing, and perfect over ice with a lemon wedge. The convenience of pre-mixed drinks matches the relaxed, outdoor-focused lifestyle, but that doesn't mean Australians don’t enjoy a good cocktail too.
In urban areas like Sydney and Melbourne, you'll find Jim Beam served in sours, fizzes and even tiki-style tropical creations, often combining citrus and local plant ingredients.
Bourbon in Latin America
While rum and tequila have traditionally dominated the spirits scene in Latin America, bourbon has carved out a niche for those seeking something different. In countries like Mexico, Chile, and Brazil, Jim Beam is appearing more frequently in cocktails with tropical influences—pineapple juice, tamarind, passion fruit and lime are common mixers.
In Brazil, Jim Beam with guaraná soda offers a local twist that blends sweet, spicy and fizzy in equal parts.
Popular bourbon drinks across cultures
What unites all these different serves and settings? The spirit of openness. Jim Beam’s smooth character makes it a perfect companion for flavors around the world—fitting seamlessly into rituals both old and new. Whether you're raising a glass in Tokyo, Berlin, Nashville or São Paulo, there’s no single way to enjoy Jim Beam.
So whether you take it neat, with a mixer, or stirred into your favorite cocktail, the most important part is who you share it with—and the good times that follow.
