What U.S. Presidents Loved to Drink

The Favorite Drinks of U.S. Presidents Throughout History

Ever wonder what the big shots in the White House sipped on to unwind? From classy martinis to straight-up whiskey, US presidents have had some pretty cool drink picks over the years. This list spills the tea on their go-to cocktails, giving you a taste of history with a splash of fun. Back in college, I tried mixing a martini for a party, and let’s just say it was more “shaken, not stirred” disaster than 007 vibes—makes me respect these prez’s drink choices even more!

George Washington: Cherry Bounce

Our first prez was all about that Cherry Bounce life. This sweet brandy and cherry mix was his jam, made right at Mount Vernon. He’d sip it to chill after a long day running the new nation.

John Adams: Hard Cider

Adams kicked off his mornings with a jug of hard cider—talk about a breakfast buzz! This fizzy apple drink was his pick for staying sharp, and he swore by its crisp, tangy kick.

Theodore Roosevelt: Mint Julep

Teddy was a mint julep fan, using fresh White House mint to make it pop. He’d whip these up to loosen up his cabinet buddies for some tennis, proving he was as smooth off the court as on it.

Franklin D. Roosevelt: Gin Martini

FDR was the cocktail king, but his gin martini was the real MVP. He’d mix these bad boys himself, throwing epic happy hours called “Children’s Hour” to gossip and sip with the D.C. crowd.

Harry S. Truman: Old Fashioned

Truman didn’t mess around with weak drinks. His Old Fashioned was a strong bourbon hit, served straight-up with a no-nonsense vibe, just like his leadership style.

John F. Kennedy: Bloody Mary

JFK was all about that Bloody Mary life, loving its bold, spicy kick. Whether at a swanky event or a chill hangout, this cocktail was his go-to for keeping things lively.

Lyndon B. Johnson: Scotch and Soda

LBJ kept it real with a Scotch and soda, sipping it from a foam cup while cruising his Texas ranch. He’d wave for a refill, and the Secret Service would hustle to keep his drink topped off.

Richard Nixon: Dry Martini

Nixon was into dry martinis, keeping it classy with a gin-heavy mix. He’d sip these while plotting big moves, though he made sure his guests got the cheap wine—sneaky move, Dick!

Gerald Ford: Gin and Tonic

Ford was a gin and tonic guy, loving its crisp, refreshing vibe. He’d kick back with one to start the day, keeping things light while navigating the post-Watergate chaos.

Bill Clinton: Snakebite

Clinton’s drink was a weird one—a snakebite, half lager, half cider. This British mix was his chill-out drink of choice, perfect for unwinding after a long day in the Oval Office.

George W. Bush: Non-Alcoholic Beer

Bush ditched the booze during his presidency, sticking to non-alcoholic beer. He still wanted that brewski vibe without the buzz, keeping it chill while running the country.

Barack Obama: White House Honey Ale

Obama was all about homebrewed White House Honey Ale, made with honey from Michelle’s beehive. It was his go-to for kicking back, and he’d share it with guests to show off that prez swag.