From classic lemon barley to artisan botanical blends, cordial has been quenching Australian thirsts for over a century. Discover everything you need to know.
A concentrated, flavoured syrup mixed with water to create a refreshing drink — cordial is one of Australia's most beloved and versatile beverages.
Cordial is a concentrated liquid made from fruit juice or flavourings, sugar (or sweetener), and water. You mix a small amount of cordial with still or sparkling water to create a refreshing flavoured drink. The word "cordial" comes from the Latin cor, meaning "heart" — historically, cordials were believed to be invigorating tonics.
In Australia, cordial occupies a unique cultural position. It's the drink of school canteens, cricket club afternoons, backyard barbecues, and family fridges. From the iconic Cottee's and Bickford's brands to a new wave of artisan producers, cordial is experiencing a renaissance.
Australians have been drinking cordial since the colonial era. What began as a way to preserve fruit and make water more palatable has evolved into a multi-million dollar industry — and a thriving homemade craft. Today's cordial ranges from everyday supermarket staples to hand-crafted botanical syrups made with native Australian ingredients like lemon myrtle, Davidson plum, and finger lime.
Mix one part cordial with four to six parts water — still or sparkling — for the perfect drink. Adjust the ratio to your taste. Simple, affordable, and endlessly customisable.
From classic lemon, lime, and orange to raspberry, tropical, passionfruit, elderflower, and native botanicals — there's a cordial flavour for every palate.
While cordial exists worldwide, Australia's relationship with it is unique — it's a fridge staple in millions of households and a fixture of Australian childhood memories.
A growing movement of Australians are making their own cordials at home — using fresh fruit, herbs, native ingredients, and natural sweeteners for a healthier, tastier alternative.
From the timeless classics to exciting newcomers, these are the flavours Australians love most.
The undisputed classic. Lemon cordial is the backbone of the Australian cordial market — refreshing, tart, and perfect on a hot day. Lemon barley adds a smooth, slightly sweet twist.
Sweet and sunny, orange cordial is a kids' favourite across the country. Tropical blends add mango, pineapple, and passionfruit for an exotic twist.
Deep, fruity, and vibrant — raspberry cordial turns water into a jewel-coloured treat. Mixed berry blends add complexity with blueberry, blackberry, and strawberry.
Zesty and refreshing, lime cordial is the perfect summer companion. Lime splice varieties mix lime with creamy vanilla notes for a nostalgic Aussie treat.
The artisan darling — elderflower cordial has surged in popularity with the craft drinks movement. Other botanicals include rose, lavender, hibiscus, and native Australian flowers.
Davidson plum, lemon myrtle, finger lime, Kakadu plum, and wattleseed — Australian producers are creating unique cordials from native ingredients found nowhere else on Earth.
Making cordial is simple — but a few tips make the difference between good and great.
Start with a tall glass — 350ml or larger. A clear glass shows off the beautiful colour of your cordial. Add ice cubes first for maximum chill.
Pour 30–50ml of cordial concentrate into the glass (about 1 part cordial). Start with less — you can always add more. Every brand has a different sweetness level.
Fill with cold water or sparkling water (about 4–6 parts water to 1 part cordial). Sparkling water transforms cordial into an elegant, fizzy refreshment.
Give it a good stir to fully mix. Garnish with fresh fruit, a sprig of mint, or a slice of citrus. For an extra touch, add cucumber or fresh berries.
Cordials have been enjoyed in Australia since the early colonial era
Estimated percentage of Australian homes that keep cordial in the fridge
The Australian cordial and syrup market is worth hundreds of millions annually
Available across major supermarket brands alone — and growing every year
Both are sweet and refreshing — but there are key differences worth knowing.
| 🍹 Cordial | 🥤 Soft Drink | |
|---|---|---|
| Sugar Control | You control the sweetness level | Fixed sugar per serve |
| Cost per Serve | ~$0.10–$0.30 | ~$1.50–$3.50 |
| Carbonation | Your choice — still or sparkling | Always carbonated |
| Flavour Variety | 50+ flavours, easily mixed | Limited to brand range |
| Storage | Compact concentrate, lasts months | Bulky, loses fizz once open |
| Environmental Impact | Less packaging per serve | Individual bottles/cans |
| Customisation | Mix flavours, adjust strength | What you buy is what you get |
| Sugar-Free Options | Many available (stevia, sucralose) | Available but limited |
There's so much more to discover about cordial. Dive into our guides crafted specifically for Australians.
From medieval European apothecaries to Australian fridge staples — trace the fascinating journey of cordial over the centuries.
Read the story →New to making cordial? Everything you need to know — dilution ratios, best brands for beginners, storage tips, and common mistakes.
Start here →Learn to make stunning homemade cordials using fresh fruit, herbs, and native Australian ingredients. Step-by-step recipes for every skill level.
Make your own →Our curated directory of Australian supermarkets, specialty stores, farmers' markets, and online retailers for every type of cordial.
Find a supplier →Cottee's, Bickford's, Buderim Ginger, artisan producers — compare Australia's biggest brands and discover the best for each flavour.
Compare brands →Cordial cocktails, mocktails, slushies, popsicles, baking, and more — creative ways to use cordial beyond a simple glass.
See recipes →