Pink Lemonade
Lemonade tinted pink, traditionally with a splash of berry or grenadine flavor.
Origin
The United States, with an origin story (likely apocryphal but widely repeated) tracing to circus vendors in the 19th century who supposedly tinted lemonade with red dye or berry juice for visual appeal.
History
Pink lemonade's exact origin is genuinely uncertain, with several competing legends (a circus performer coloring it with cinnamon candies, or with dye from a performer's tights, or simply berry juice added for a more appealing color) all pointing to a 19th-century American circus or carnival setting where a more eye-catching drink helped it sell. Regardless of its true origin, it became a nostalgic, summery American staple by the 20th century, and its bright color and berry-citrus flavor made it a popular cocktail mixer, especially in playful, visually vibrant drinks.
Flavor profile
Sweet-tart lemonade flavor with an added berry note (raspberry, cranberry, or strawberry) and pink color.
Tasting notes
Tastes essentially like standard lemonade with a light berry sweetness layered in, adding a rosy color and slightly fruitier profile than plain lemonade in a cocktail.
Substitutes
- Regular lemonade with a splash of cranberry or grenadine, for a homemade approximation.
- Pink grapefruit juice mixed with simple syrup, as a different but comparably pink substitute.
- A different pink lemonade brand, since the category's flavor stays fairly consistent.
Common cocktails