If you’ve ever switched from hot coffee to iced coffee the second the temperature hits 60, congratulations, you’re part of a very predictable American tradition.

A fun graphic breaks down what Americans tend to drink throughout the year, and it turns out our choices aren’t random at all. They follow the weather, the holidays, and sometimes… just the vibe.

Let’s take a sip through the calendar.

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VinePair
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January: Recovery Mode Activated

The year kicks off exactly how you’d expect with coconut water or Gatorade on New Year’s Day. Hydration is the goal after a long night of celebrating.

From there, it’s all about staying warm. Enter the Hot Toddy, a cozy mix of whiskey, honey, lemon, and hot water. Fun fact: it’s been used for centuries as a “home remedy” for colds.

And for beer lovers? Winter ales, porters, and stouts dominate. These darker beers are heavier, richer, and perfect for cold nights.

February: Love (and Strong Drinks) in the Air

Valentine’s Day brings out pink champagne, because nothing says romance like bubbles.

Or… you go the opposite direction with “three fingers of bourbon.” No judgment.

March: A Green Beer Takeover

March is ruled by St. Patrick’s Day, which means Guinness and green beer take center stage.

Guinness, by the way, isn’t actually heavy — despite its dark color, it has fewer calories than many lighter beers.

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Getty Images
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April: Spring Starts to Show

April is that weird in-between month, but lighter cocktails start creeping in — hinting that patio season is almost here.

May: Derby Hats and Margaritas

May is doing the most.

Mint Juleps take over for the Kentucky Derby — a mix of bourbon, mint, sugar, and crushed ice.
Then Cinco de Mayo hits, and suddenly it’s margaritas everywhere (and not always the good kind).

Fun fact: the margarita is one of the most ordered cocktails in the U.S.

June: The Rise of Rosé Season

As the weather heats up, Americans fully commit to rosé, sangria, and frozen drinks.

“Rosé all day” isn’t just a saying — sales of rosé skyrocket in summer months.

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Getty Images/iStockphoto
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July: Cold, Cheap, and Easy

July is peak summer, and no one wants anything complicated.

Cheap macro lagers dominate Fourth of July celebrations
Iced coffee becomes a daily necessity

It’s less about quality… more about staying cool.

August: Peak Summer Simplicity

By August, we’re still riding the iced coffee wave and easy drinking habits. Think light, refreshing, and low effort.

September: Beer Fest Season

Fall begins, and so does Oktoberfest beer season.

These beers are smooth, slightly malty, and designed for drinking in big steins with friends.

October: Pumpkin Everything

It was coming… and now it’s here.

Pumpkin spice lattes take over the country. Love them or hate them, they’re a cultural phenomenon. Starbucks alone sells millions every year.

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Getty Images/iStockphoto
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November: Fancy (for a Moment)

November brings Beaujolais Nouveau, a young French wine released every year on the third Thursday of the month.

It’s basically the wine world’s version of a seasonal drop — fresh, fruity, and meant to be enjoyed right away.

December: Cozy and Celebratory

December is a mix of comfort and celebration:

Eggnog — rich, creamy, and often spiked
Sparkling wine on New Year’s Eve

Fun fact: eggnog dates back to medieval Britain and was originally a drink for the wealthy.

The Big Picture

When you step back, it’s actually kind of perfect.

In the winter, we drink warm, rich, comforting beverages.
In the summer, it’s cold, light, and refreshing.
And in between? We drink whatever matches the moment — holidays, traditions, and sometimes just pure chaos.

Because if there’s one thing Americans are consistent about… it’s matching their drink to the mood.

LOOK: Food and drink items that are highly restricted or banned in the U.S.

Stacker explores snacks and other food items banned in the U.S. From tasty cheeses to the famed Scottish dish haggis, these 30 foods aren't welcome in most of the United States.

Gallery Credit: Stacker

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