March Cocktail Madness 2026: Let the Bracket Begin

Get ready to shake things up. March Cocktail Madness is back! 🍸🏆

Starting March 20th, eight iconic cocktails will go head-to-head in our annual bracket-style showdown to determine which drink deserves the crown this year.

But before the main event begins, we are kicking things off with something new.

The Play-In Round

On March 18th, two legendary versions of the same cocktail will face off: Gin Martini vs. Vodka Martini.

Only one will advance into the bracket, and the decision is entirely up to you.

Will tradition win with gin? Or will vodka take the spotlight? Cast your votes and help decide which Martini enters the competition.

March Cocktail Madness Lineup: 8 Cocktails, 1 Champion

Here’s the ranked list of contenders:

1. Margarita – The most ordered cocktail in the United States and a global favorite.

2. Old Fashioned – A timeless whiskey classic that consistently ranks among the world’s most popular cocktails.

3. Martini (Gin or Vodka) – Sophisticated, iconic, and endlessly debated.

4. Mojito – Crisp, minty, and refreshing, especially beloved in warm-weather months.

5. Manhattan – A whiskey lover’s staple and craft cocktail bar favorite.

6. Cosmopolitan – A cultural icon that remains a staple of cocktail menus everywhere.

7. Dark & Stormy – A bold rum cocktail with spicy ginger beer and loyal fans worldwide.

8. Tequila Sunrise – A visually stunning classic with a nostalgic following.

How It Works

March 18 – Play-in round (Gin Martini vs Vodka Martini)

March 20 – First round of matchups begins

Voting – Cast your votes through post comments and story polls on Facebook and Instagram

April 7 – The champion cocktail is crowned

Each winning cocktail will advance to the next round until only one ultimate champion remains.

More Than Just Cocktails

As always, every recipe we share during the tournament will highlight diversely owned and operated brands across the beverage industry.

From spirits to mixers, we believe great cocktails should also be a way to discover and support producers from diverse backgrounds who are helping shape the future of the industry.

Because diversity truly is the taste of life.

Get in on the Madness!

Follow along, cast your votes, and try the cocktails as the tournament unfolds. Whether you are revisiting a classic like the Old Fashioned or mixing up something bright and refreshing like a Mojito, every round is a chance to celebrate great drinks.

So tell us… who’s your pick?

Will the Margarita dominate the bracket?

Will the Old Fashioned defend its legacy?

Or will an unexpected contender rise to the top?

Follow us on social media (@HopScotchandGrape), cast your votes, and let the Cocktail Madness begin! 🍹🔥

Because Diversity is the taste of life®!

Remember to enjoy responsibly.