Snakebite and Black

Snakebite and Black is a refreshing and invigorating cocktail that combines equal parts of lager and cider, topped with a splash of blackcurrant cordial.

  • 5 min
  • Easy
  • Pint glass
  • 3 ingredients
Hero bottle: Lager →

Snakebite and Black

Ingredients

1
  • Lager½ pint
  • Cider½ pint
  • Blackcurrant squashA little bit of

Method

  1. Put blackcurrant squash in first up to about 1cm in glass.
  2. Then add the lager and cider one after another.
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What you need

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A double jigger

Marked in oz and ml, with lines inside for the small measures.

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The hero bottle

See 6 Lager drinks

Where it comes from

Snakebite and Black originates from British pub culture, combining beer and cider traditions with stout for dramatic effect. This working-class drink gained legendary status through its potency and theatrical presentation. It represents authentic British beverage culture and social drinking traditions.

Tips from the bar

  • Pour beer and cider in equal measure before adding stout for proper layering
  • Use cold ingredients to maintain separation between layers
  • Serve immediately after preparation to prevent mixing before tasting
  • Exercise caution due to rapid alcohol absorption effects
  • Consider using a black velvet as a refined alternative

Twists worth trying

Snakebite Original
A traditional version using equal parts pale ale and cider with draught stout
Black Velvet Premium
A refined interpretation using premium stout and craft cider
Dark Depth
A deeper variation substituting porter for stout creating richer notes

What to eat with it

  • Beef and ale pie
  • Fish and chips
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Pork sausages
  • Crusty bread
  • Chocolate pudding

The finished drink

Snakebite and Black

Questions

What is in a Snakebite and Black?

A Snakebite and Black is made with lager, cider, blackcurrant squash.

What glass do you use for a Snakebite and Black?

Serve a Snakebite and Black in a pint glass.

What does a Snakebite and Black taste like?

Expect fruity, tart, refreshing.

What can I make with Lager?

We have 6 drinks built around Lager. See them all on the Lager page.

More with Lager

Every Lager drink →

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