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
Snakebite and Black
Ingredients
- Lager½ pint
- Cider½ pint
- Blackcurrant squashA little bit of
Method
- Put blackcurrant squash in first up to about 1cm in glass.
- Then add the lager and cider one after another.
What you need
Nothing fancy. Here is what to look for. We earn a small cut if you buy through these links, at no cost to you.
The hero bottle
See 6 Lager drinksWhere 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

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 →One good drink, every Friday.
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