8 Colombian drinks you need to try

Colombia is known for coffee, but drinking in this tropical country goes much further than java. Colombian drinks range from cold juices to warm sugar cane cocktails, each with a flavor that tells a story about the country's heritage and scenery. Whether it's something you have every day or something you save for a big celebration, there's a Colombian drink for every occasion.

I want to take you on a journey through the straw, and into Colombians' glasses. We're going to look at eight Colombian drinks that stand out. We'll talk about their backgrounds, how they taste, and how they're made.

You'll get to know what goes into each drink and the traditions around them. By the end of it, you're going to become an expert on Colombian beverages. Plus, I'll show you how to make them yourself so you can enjoy a bit of Colombia from your own home. So join me for a sip down Colombia's coast!

Popular Colombian alcoholic drinks

Alcoholic drinks have a long-standing history in Colombia, tracing back to the indigenous peoples who used them in religious ceremonies. Below are some enduring Colombian alcoholic drinks:

Aguardiente

Aguardiente, the national spirit of Colombian cuisine, is an anise-flavored liquor that's a staple at festive events. Its affordability and accessibility make it a favorite starting point for those venturing into Colombian cocktails.

The first time I tried aguardiente, the go-to spirit for any Colombian party, I wasn't sure about the anise flavor. The strong scent and high proof of the drink nearly knocked me out.

But after trying it in a warm cup of aguapanela, and tasting it in dishes like my favorite fruit-filled Colombian ceviche, the drink just clicked for me. I saw its unique flavor profile and appreciated it for what it was: a unique alcohol that represents a way of life for people.

It doesn't hurt that it's also mighty affordable, too.

“When my Colombian friends insisted that I try aguardiente, I was a bit tentative. But after chanting along with the toast ‘¡Arriba, abajo, al centro, pa' dentro!’ — which loosely translates to: Up, down, to the center, inside — the anise-flavored shot slid down smoothly, and I was hooked.”

— Sage Scott, Everyday Wanderer

Chicha

Chicha is a fermented corn drink with a distinctive taste and a profound place in Colombian heritage, akin to a cloudy, yeasty beer. Indigenous tribes have been brewing and fermenting chicha for ages, following age-old recipes that result in regional variants.

The first time I tried chicha was, in fact, memorable. I went to a special bar that serves only traditional drink, and grabbed a table among the many middle-aged Colombian men. Women were conspicuously absent from the bar.

The drink went down smoothly, and my husband and I spent a few hours connecting over this shared experience. But the very same night—and the next day—the chicha reminded me of its origins as a fermented beverage that people spat back into the gourd.

“Chicha can vary from sweet and lightly fermented, like kombucha, to strong and alcoholic. Whether sipped casually to beat the heat or savored during cultural festivities, chicha serves as a flavorful symbol of Colombia's culinary heritage.”

— Jessica Haggard, Primal Edge Health

Canelazo

In the Andean areas of Colombia, canelazo is a beloved warm, spiced beverage. Made with aguardiente, panela (unrefined cane sugar), and agua de canela (cinnamon water), it's ideal for warming up on a cold night or for a comforting drink during festivities.

Iconic Colombian Non-Alcoholic Beverages

Colombia's beverage scene isn't just about alcohol; there are delightful non-alcoholic options too:

Colombian Coffee

Colombia's coffee is world-famous for its superior quality. The country's climate and fertile grounds yield a dark, balanced cup with a distinctive aroma. Although once difficult to find quality local coffee due to export practices, the recent emergence of third-wave coffee culture has led to a proliferation of artisanal coffee shops, keeping some of the finest beans for domestic consumption.

Chocolate Santaferenio

Chocolate santaferenio is a traditional hot chocolate from Bogotá that is perfect for cold weather. You can buy palettes of this chocolate, sweetened with cane sugar, and make it at home. Just remember that this hot and sweet drink is commonly served with cheese for a delightful sweet-salty fusion.

Aguapanela

Traditional Colombian Aguapanela (Sugar Cane Drink), a simple yet refreshing concoction of water and unrefined cane sugar, can be enjoyed hot or cold, often with a splash of lemon or lime. It's a household staple across Colombia.

Avena

Avena, or oatmeal drink, is a thick, creamy beverage prepared from overnight oats, then simmered with milk, water, cinnamon, cloves, and sugar. It's a versatile drink for any time of the day.

Lulada

Finally, Lulada is a chilled drink crafted from the Colombian fruit lulo, blended with ice, sugar, and water for a tangy, invigorating refreshment ideal for warm days. It's only one of the many Colombian fruit drinks, but one that I particularly love.

During my latest visit to Medellin, I had the pleasure of drinking lulada mixed with soda. With pieces of fresh fruit floating in the drink, it was a celebration of texture and taste that I couldn't get enough of!

Preparing Colombian Drinks at Home

The best part of Colombian drinks is how easy they are to make at home. Some of the best Colombian coffee is actually grown for export, so customers all over the world can taste artisanal Colombians beans.

Packs of frozen fruit pulp, the base of most Colombian fruit drinks, are available in most international supermarkets.

To whip up a refreshing aguapanela, mix panela, water, grated ginger, and a cinnamon stick in a pot. Heat until simmering, then turn off the heat. Stir well and serve hot, or cool it down with ice and a dash of lemon.

For a creamy avena Colombiana, cook overnight-soaked oats with milk, water, cinnamon, cloves, and sugar. Let it cool before enjoying it as a breakfast drink or a midday snack.

To sample the tangy chicha, combine corn, water, and sugar. Let the mixture ferment for several days, then strain and serve it cold.

Cultural Importance of Colombian Beverages

In Colombia, beverages are deeply integrated into daily life and traditions. For instance, cafe Tinto, black coffee with sugar, is a cultural icon. It highlights the country's prized coffee beans and Colombians' love for sweetness.

Drinks like canelazo and lulada reflect the nation's diverse climates and ingredients. Canelazo is popular in cooler regions, while lulada is a favorite along the hot and humid Caribbean coast.

As you explore Colombian beverages, appreciate their cultural significance and the distinctive flavors passed down through generations. These drinks offer a window into Colombia's rich history and lively traditions.

Trends in Colombian Drinks

Lately, there's been a renewed interest in traditional Colombian beverages. Bars are putting a craft cocktail spin on canelazo and innovating with aguardiente. Meanwhile, gourmet restaurants and drink companies are introducing artisanal aguapanela sodas.

Chicha is experiencing a revival, particularly among those looking to reconnect with their cultural roots. Additionally, Colombian rums are gaining popularity as unique, locally-made spirits.

This article is based on one that originally appeared on Food Drink Life.