Pixel Tracking

The Truth About Drinking Straws

Date: 20-11-2023
Straws

Why Do Drinks Taste Better with a Straw

Also listed are the top 10 most popular Cocktails in Australia according to Strato Melbourne.

Lady stiring cocktail with black straw

You're not imagining things—drinks really do taste better with a straw. It has to do with taste and temperature.

While chains like Starbucks have done away with plastic straws, paper and metal straws are still pretty common. There are plenty of alternatives to plastic straws, which means you’ll find yourself sipping a cold drink out of a straw every now and then.

Meaning, don’t forget about straws! In fact, there’s something about drinking a cold beverage through a straw that makes it taste even better. Here’s the simple explanation behind this phenomenon.

First, How Does Taste Work?

Contrary to what we learned in elementary school, the tongue senses much more than sweet, sour, salty, bitter and umami. Your taste buds are sensitive! And because taste works hand in hand with our sense of smell, humans pick up a lot more than we may think.

When we take a sip of something, the receptors in our nose pick up volatile organic compounds. These compounds, known as VOCs, lead the way in producing aromas—the strong scents we associate with food and drink. As aromas intensify (and they will with heat), more definitive, complex tastes are perceived on the tongue. Yum!

It’s a similar reason to why tomato juice tastes better on planes.

So Why Do Drinks Taste Better with a Straw?

The key here is temperature. Let’s think about a milkshake—cold, right? If you’re not sipping it through a straw, you’ll likely get a mouthful of chilled ice cream and a brain freeze, and it’s probably not going to taste much like chocolate or vanilla. In this instance, your mouth is overwhelmed by the cold temperature of the shake, slowing down the process of VOCs getting picked up by the receptors in your nose.

Take one sip with a straw and that all changes. The amount of ice cream in your mouth is smaller, giving it more room to heat up, melt and send VOCs straight to the nose. The result is a sweet and tasty milkshake.

When it comes to deciding whether or not to use a straw in your cocktail, there are a few things to consider. First, think about the type of drink you are making. If it is a clear, refreshing beverage like a gin and tonic or a vodka soda, then a straw may not be necessary. On the other hand, if you are making a thick, creamy drink like a milkshake or a frappuccino, then a straw may be a good idea to help you enjoy your drink

The 10 Most Popular Cocktails in Australia Revealed

Espresso Martini With Black Straw

Recent research has found that Espresso Martinis and Margaritas are Australia’s most popular cocktails. Data shows Espresso Martinis experienced a 300% increase in popularity in early 2021, overtaking the classic favourites; Mojitos and Pina Coladas.

1. Espresso Martini

2. Margarita

3. Mojito

4. Pina Colada

5. Classic Martini

6. Negroni

7. Long Island Ice Tea

8. Aperol Spritz

9. Whiskey Sour

10. Old Fashioned

The old fashioned cocktail is a classic drink that has been enjoyed since the late 19th century. It is traditionally made with whiskey, bitters, sugar, and a twist of citrus. This drink has a long and interesting history, and it continues to be a favourite of many cocktail enthusiasts.

The old fashioned cocktail is known for its strong, bold flavours. The whiskey provides the base of the drink, while the bitters and sugar give it a unique sweetness and complexity. The citrus twist adds a unique flavour and aroma that makes the drink even more enjoyable.

Read more on what cocktails are from Australia

 

BLACK FRIDAY SALE!

40% Off Straws

Valid only between the 14th to the 24th of November. Codes expires on the 25th.

Black Paper Straws 3ply_Black Friday SaleKraft Brown Paper Straws 3ply_Black Friday Sale