Grab your passport and your shot glasses and be sure to pack your Newfound worldliness… In this comprehensive guide, as we explore the nuanced etiquette surrounding alcohol in Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and beyond, we’ll take you from a bumbling tourist to a culturally wise and socially astute Nomad. Prepare to be entertained, enlightened, and maybe just a little bit tipsy.
Europe
Germany: Beer and the Art of Toasting
Beer is a central part of German culture, not least because it is home to the birth of the modern-day beer style we enjoy today, but German beer is considered to be some of the best beer in the world and represents a 500-year tradition of brewing practices. Codified by the 1516 Reinheitsgebot (Beer Purity Law) allowing only water, barley, and hops in beer production and, blessed with superior hop regions, German brewers have defined global brewing standards – and you’d be wise not to argue with a German against it. When toasting, be sure to make direct eye contact and say “prost!” or risk seven years of bad luck according to local superstition. It is also bad luck to cross arms with the person next to you when cheersing.
Oktoberfest amplifies these traditions where beer is served in one-litre steins called “Maßkrüge”, and drinking becomes a communal celebration of Bavarian heritage. Pace yourself— these steins take no prisoners.
France: Wine Etiquette
Naturally, wine appreciation is deeply integrated into culture. And, while this is decreasing, it is not uncommon to enjoy a glass of wine or beer when breaking for lunch. Adding ice to your wine or risk is not an appreciated conduct. It compromises the delicate temperature, dilution and flavour of the wine, and is considered somewhat of a Faux pas… In a similar respect, hold your wine glass by the stem to avoid warming the wine with your hand. Let the host pour the wine, avoid swirling or sipping too quickly- French wine drinking is about appreciation, not speed or quantity. Enjoy the rich vino tapestry and intricate craftsmanship of this premium wine country. Born in Marseille, Pastis is a strong, anise-flavoured liqueur that is often drank as a traditional Apéritif before meals or at the weekend while playing pétanque… (although the latter may venture into the realms of cliché).
It is polite in France, to wait for everyone to be served before taking the first sip and when toasting, make eye contact and feel free to say “Santé!”
Greece: Ouzo and Raki
In Greece, drinking is a social activity deeply tied to hospitality and tradition. Ouzo, a popular anise-flavoured spirit, is often consumed with meze (small appetizers) and shared among friends and family. A shot of Ouzo or Raki is often offered alongside a fruit platter after a meal by the restaurant. Underscoring the Greek’s appreciation of generosity, sharing and a good palate cleanser!
Asia
Japan: The Art of Pouring for Others
One of the most important drinking customs in Japan is the idea of pouring drinks for others rather than yourself. It is considered impolite to pour your own drink in a group setting. If someone pours for you, it’s polite to hold your glass with both hands and when offering a drink, it’s also respectful to pour with both hands, especially for elders or those of higher status. The same applies when pouring drinks for others.
In Japan, the act of toasting is a crucial social ritual. Before taking your first drink, the group will typically say “Kanpai!” (乾杯), which translates to “Cheers!” or “Empty cup! The first drink of the evening should be consumed after everyone’s glass has been filled, and after the kanpai. It’s considered rude to take a drink before the toast. Japanese drinking culture tends to emphasize moderation and control. Even in informal settings, drunk behaviour can be seen as unrefined, and disrespectful.
China: Baijiu and Toasting Rituals
Drinking etiquette in China is deeply intertwined with respect, tradition, and social harmony, especially when consuming alcohol like baijiu (a strong, fermented liquor) or mijiu (rice wine). Similarly to the practices in Japan, it is also considered impolite to pour your own drink in China. Instead, you should pour drinks for others, especially for elders or guests, and wait for them to offer to refill your glass. When someone pours for you, it’s polite to hold your glass with both hands as a sign of respect.
Toasting plays a significant role in Chinese drinking culture. The most common toast in China is “Ganbei!” (干杯), which means “Cheers!” or literally “Empty the cup!” Particularly in formal settings, it’s a call to down the entire glass in one go, especially when baijiu is involved. It is common to clink glasses in a cheers but when doing so, it is important to lower your glass slightly below the other person’s, especially if they are of higher social rank or older. This gesture symbolizes humility and respect. In some cases, the person of lower rank will even bend their arm slightly when clinking glasses.
Korea: Soju and Respect for Elders
In South Korea, drinking etiquette is heavily influenced by respect for hierarchy and tradition, particularly when it comes to soju, the country’s most popular spirit. The social dynamics around drinking often centre around age and status, with elders being treated with the utmost respect. Follow customs similar across Asia of pouring for others and using two hands.
The toasting ritual, especially with soju, involves a deep cultural respect. The common phrase “Geonbae!” (Cheers) is used when making a toast. It’s customary to turn your head away slightly and lower your glass when drinking in the presence of an elder, out of respect. It’s also polite to take small sips. Soju is typically served in small glasses, and while drinking can be a fun social activity, maintaining composure and not overindulging is key to preserving face and respect in Korean culture. Moderation and politeness are central to Korean drinking etiquette.
Latin America
Mexico: Tequila and Mezcal
In Mexico, drinking is a central part of social gatherings. Tequila and mezcal are the most iconic spirits, both made from the agave plant but differing in taste and production. Mezcal and Tequila, especially from Jalisco, is traditional to sip it slowly rather than take it as a shot, especially in more formal or intimate settings. When pouring tequila or mezcal, it’s customary to do so slowly and carefully, as both spirits are valued for their quality. Additionally, adding ice or mixing it with other drinks (like in cocktails) is typically frowned upon, as it is seen as disrupting the purity of the spirit.
A key part of Mexican drinking etiquette is the toast, or “brindis.” Before taking a sip, it is customary to raise your glass and make eye contact with those around you. It’s important to offer a toast, especially at the start of a meal or gathering, and to acknowledge everyone present, it’s also polite to wait for the host to initiate the first toast. The phrase “Salud!” is commonly used when toasting.
Argentina: Wine and Asados
Argentina is renowned for its world-class Malbec wines, which are frequently enjoyed during the classic asado (barbecue) experience. Wine is seen as an everyday part of life, and there is a strong culture of wine appreciation across the country. When dining at an asado, it’s polite to wait for your host to pour the first glass before beginning. Also, be sure to savour the wine and the company, as Argentinians view meals as social events to be savoured.
Brazil: Cachaça and Caipirinhas
In Brazil, the national cocktail is the caipirinha, made with cachaça, lime, and sugar. These refreshing drinks are often served in social settings, so be prepared to mingle and make new friends. Brazilians also tend to drink in a more leisurely, relaxed manner, so try to match that pace and avoid downing drinks too quickly.
Middle East
Islamic Countries
In predominantly Muslim countries, the consumption of alcohol is generally prohibited. However, some areas may have more permissive policies, particularly in tourist hubs. When visiting these regions, it’s crucial to research and respect the local laws and customs around alcohol. Avoid public intoxication, and be discreet if partaking in private. A total ban of alcohol exists in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Libya and Sudan.
Turkey: Raki and şerefe
In Turkey, drinking is a social activity centred around hospitality and togetherness. One of the most iconic drinks is raki, an anise-flavoured spirit often served with water, turning milky white, and paired with meze (small appetizers) during long, leisurely meals. Drinking raki alone is considered improper- always drink socially, with food and company. The ritual of toasting is also significant; şerefe (cheers) is the common expression, and people often clink glasses as a sign of respect and camaraderie. The rules around alcohol are a little stricter than the UK drinking culture. Officials are hot on disturbing public peace and the licence for selling alcohol in shops cuts off at 10pm sharp.
Morocco: Old City vs New City
In Morocco, alcohol consumption is not common due to Islamic religious practices and Alcohol must be purchased and consumed in licensed hotels, bars and in tourist areas. Heavy tourist areas, like Marrakech, however cater to visitors and consumption is a bit more relaxed. Public drinking is still frowned upon, and excessive drinking or public drunkenness can lead to fines or legal issues, so is best to be discreet and respectful of local customs—avoid drinking in front of locals who could potentially find it offensive. In Marrakech, Alcohol is not commonly served in more traditional or local Moroccan areas, such as in the old town Medina. In Ville Nouvelle (the new city) and the area around Jemaa el-Fnaa (the famous square) however, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, bars and nightclubs that serve alcohol.
Israel
Israel has a complex relationship with alcohol, blending religious traditions with modern culture. In Orthodox Jewish communities, drinking is limited to specific occasions, such as the Sabbath or holidays. In more secular settings, wine and beer are commonly enjoyed, but it’s polite to be mindful of those who choose not to partake.
The States
United States: Casual Beer Culture
In the US, while alcohol is often consumed socially, the social norms around drinking can vary greatly to that of the UK. While casual drinking is prevalent, there’s a focus on a quick, efficient drinking experience which often falls at the weekend, in contrast to the UK’s long standing pub culture, where the social experience is more drawn out, leisurely and perhaps, frequent!
No matter where you are in the world, understanding local drinking etiquette can turn an awkward social moment into a memorable cultural experience. Whether you’re clinking glasses in Japan, savouring wine in France, or sipping tequila in Mexico, the key is respect and awareness. So next time you’re galivanting through continents, submerge yourself in the diverse customs, meet some new pen pals, and maybe even learn a new word for “cheers.”
