Looking for drinks that start with Y? This is one of the trickier letters in any alphabet food challenge, but there are more Y drinks than you might expect. From yoghurt-based drinks and yuzu tea to yerba mate, Yellow Bird cocktails and good old Yorkshire Tea, there are plenty of options for quizzes, themed menus, school projects or simply trying something new.

This guide covers soft drinks, hot drinks, juices, dairy drinks and alcoholic drinks beginning with Y, with practical notes on taste, where you might find them in the UK, and a few money-saving tips along the way.

Quick List of Drinks That Start With Y

If you just need a fast answer, here are some popular and lesser-known drinks beginning with Y:

• Yakult
• Yoghurt drink
• Yoghurt lassi
• Yoghurt smoothie
• Yuzu tea
• Yuja-cha
• Yuzu lemonade
• Yuzu soda
• Yerba mate
• Yaupon tea
• Yellow tea
• Yorkshire Tea
• Yunnan tea
• Yuenyeung
• Yoo-hoo
• Yam milk
• Young coconut water
• Yellow watermelon juice
• Yali pear juice
• Yacon drink
• Yak butter tea
• Yellow Chartreuse
• Yellow Bird cocktail
• Yellow Hammer cocktail
• Yorsh
• Yuengling beer
• Yanjing beer
• Yukon Jack

Drinks That Start With Y: Complete Guide

Here is a more detailed look at Y drinks, including what they are and how they are usually served.

1. Yakult

Yakult is a small fermented milk drink made with live bacteria cultures. It has a sweet, tangy flavour and is usually sold in tiny bottles. You will often find it in the chilled section of UK supermarkets, usually near yoghurt drinks and probiotic-style products.

Money-saving tip: multipacks are usually better value than buying single bottles. Supermarket own-brand fermented yoghurt drinks can also be cheaper if you are not fussed about the brand.

2. Yoghurt Drink

A yoghurt drink is one of the easiest drinks beginning with Y to find. These are usually smooth, sweetened and flavoured with fruit such as strawberry, mango, peach or raspberry. They are popular as a breakfast drink or quick snack.

You can make a simple yoghurt drink at home by blending plain yoghurt with milk and a spoonful of jam, honey or frozen fruit. It is a good way to use up yoghurt that is close to its use-by date, as long as it still smells and tastes normal and has been stored correctly.

3. Yoghurt Lassi

Lassi is a yoghurt-based drink from the Indian subcontinent. It can be sweet or savoury. Mango lassi is probably the best-known version in the UK, often served in Indian restaurants and takeaway spots.

A basic sweet lassi can be made with yoghurt, cold water or milk, sugar or honey, and fruit. For a savoury version, use yoghurt, water, salt, roasted cumin and fresh mint.

4. Yoghurt Smoothie

A yoghurt smoothie is a thicker drink made with yoghurt and fruit. Bananas, berries, mango, peaches and pineapple all work well. Frozen fruit is especially handy because it is often cheaper than fresh berries and helps chill the drink without needing ice.

For a budget breakfast, blend yoghurt with a banana, a handful of oats and a splash of milk. It is filling, quick and usually cheaper than buying bottled smoothies.

5. Yuzu Tea

Yuzu tea is a citrus drink made with yuzu, a fragrant fruit used in Japanese and Korean cooking. It has a sharp, floral flavour somewhere between lemon, mandarin and grapefruit. In the UK, yuzu tea is often sold as a jarred preserve or syrup that you stir into hot water.

Yuzu products can be pricey, so use them sparingly. A teaspoon or two is often enough for a mug, depending on the brand and your taste.

6. Yuja-cha

Yuja-cha is the Korean name for yuzu tea. It is usually made from yuja fruit preserved with sugar or honey. The thick marmalade-like mixture is stirred into hot water to make a soothing citrus drink.

You may find yuja-cha in Korean supermarkets, Asian grocery shops or online. Once opened, follow the storage instructions on the jar and use a clean spoon each time.

7. Yuzu Lemonade

Yuzu lemonade is a refreshing cold drink made with yuzu juice or yuzu syrup, lemon juice, sugar and still or sparkling water. It is bright, tart and aromatic.

If proper yuzu juice is too expensive, make a yuzu-style lemonade with lemon, lime and a little grapefruit or orange zest. It will not be identical, but it gives a similar citrus lift for much less money.

8. Yuzu Soda

Yuzu soda is a fizzy soft drink flavoured with yuzu. It is popular in Japanese and Korean drinks ranges and can sometimes be found in Asian supermarkets or world food sections.

To make a cheaper version, mix a small amount of yuzu syrup or citrus cordial with sparkling water. This is usually better value than buying individual cans.

9. Yerba Mate

Yerba mate is a caffeinated herbal drink made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant. It is especially popular in parts of South America. The flavour is earthy, grassy and slightly bitter, a bit like strong green tea.

Traditionally, yerba mate is served in a gourd and drunk through a metal straw called a bombilla, but you can also brew it in a teapot, cafetiere or tea infuser. It contains caffeine, so it is best enjoyed earlier in the day if caffeine affects your sleep.

10. Yaupon Tea

Yaupon tea is made from the leaves of the yaupon holly plant, which is native to North America. Like yerba mate, it contains caffeine. It has a smooth, earthy flavour and can be served hot or iced.

It is not as common in UK supermarkets, but specialist tea shops sometimes stock it. If you are trying it for the first time, buy the smallest pack available so you are not stuck with a large bag you do not enjoy.

11. Yellow Tea

Yellow tea is a rare type of Chinese tea. It is processed in a way that gives it a mellow flavour, often sitting somewhere between green tea and white tea. It can taste smooth, lightly sweet and less grassy than some green teas.

Because yellow tea can be expensive, it is one to buy in small quantities from a reputable tea seller. Use water that is hot but not boiling to avoid bitterness.

12. Yorkshire Tea

Yorkshire Tea is one of the most recognisable tea brands in the UK. It is a black tea blend, usually served with milk, and is a strong contender if you need an everyday drink that starts with Y.

Reduced grub tip: tea bags are often discounted in large boxes. If you have the cupboard space and you drink tea regularly, bigger packs can work out cheaper per cup. Just store them somewhere dry and sealed so they stay fresh.

13. Yunnan Tea

Yunnan tea comes from Yunnan province in China. The region is known for several teas, including black tea and pu-erh. Yunnan black tea can be malty and smooth, making it a good choice for anyone who likes robust tea but wants to branch out from standard breakfast blends.

14. Yuenyeung

Yuenyeung is a Hong Kong drink made by mixing tea and coffee, usually with milk and sugar. It can be served hot or cold. The result is creamy, sweet and caffeinated, with the bitterness of coffee balanced by strong milk tea.

You can make a simple version at home using strong black tea, instant coffee or brewed coffee, milk and sugar. It is an easy way to use up the last bit of coffee in the pot.

15. Yoo-hoo

Yoo-hoo is an American chocolate-flavoured drink. It is not the same as fresh chocolate milk, as it is usually sold as a shelf-stable drink. It can be harder to find in the UK, but some American sweet shops and online retailers sell it.

If you are watching the pennies, a homemade chocolate milk made with cocoa powder, sugar and milk will almost always be cheaper.

16. Yam Milk

Yam milk is a creamy drink made with yam, milk or plant milk, and sugar. Versions of yam milk are enjoyed in parts of Asia, including Taiwan. Purple yam versions are especially eye-catching because of their colour.

At home, you can make a simple version by blending cooked yam with milk and a little sweetener. Make sure the yam is fully cooked and the drink is chilled promptly if you are not serving it straight away.

17. Young Coconut Water

Young coconut water is the clear liquid found inside young green coconuts. It has a naturally sweet, delicate flavour. Bottled or carton coconut water is widely available in the UK, although prices vary a lot.

Look for supermarket own-brand cartons if you want a cheaper option. Also check the ingredients if you prefer coconut water without added sugar or flavourings.

18. Yellow Watermelon Juice

Yellow watermelon juice is made from yellow-fleshed watermelon. It tastes similar to red watermelon, though some varieties are a little sweeter or more honey-like. Blend the flesh and strain it if you prefer a smoother drink.

This is a good summer drink if you find reduced-price watermelon. Chill it well and add lime juice to brighten the flavour.

19. Yali Pear Juice

Yali pears are crisp, juicy Asian pears. Yali pear juice is light, sweet and refreshing. It is more likely to be found in Asian grocery shops than standard UK supermarkets.

For a cheaper alternative, juice or blend reduced pears with a splash of water and lemon juice. Strain if needed.

20. Yacon Drink

Yacon is a sweet root vegetable from South America. Yacon syrup is sometimes stirred into drinks as a sweetener, and yacon-based drinks may appear in health food shops. It has a caramel-like sweetness.

Yacon products can be expensive, so compare prices carefully. If you simply need sweetness in a homemade drink, honey, sugar syrup or fruit juice may be more budget-friendly.

21. Yak Butter Tea

Yak butter tea is a traditional drink associated with Tibet and nearby Himalayan regions. It is typically made with tea, yak butter and salt. It is rich, savoury and warming rather than sweet.

It is not a common everyday drink in the UK, but it is an interesting one for alphabet food lists. Some home versions use regular butter, though the flavour will not be exactly the same.

Alcoholic Drinks That Start With Y

Some Y drinks are alcoholic, so they are obviously for adults only. Drink responsibly, follow UK alcohol guidance, and never drink and drive.

22. Yellow Chartreuse

Yellow Chartreuse is a French herbal liqueur. It is sweeter and milder than Green Chartreuse, with a complex herbal flavour. It is usually sipped in small amounts or used in cocktails.

It can be expensive, so if a cocktail recipe only needs a small measure, see if a mini bottle is available before buying a full-size bottle.

23. Yellow Bird Cocktail

The Yellow Bird is a rum-based cocktail often made with white rum, Galliano, orange liqueur and lime juice. It is bright, citrusy and tropical.

For a lower-cost home version, avoid buying lots of specialist bottles for one drink. Choose cocktails that share ingredients so nothing sits unused at the back of the cupboard.

24. Yellow Hammer Cocktail

A Yellow Hammer is a fruity cocktail with several variations. It is often made with rum, vodka, amaretto and fruit juices such as orange and pineapple. It is sweet, strong and usually served cold over ice.

25. Yorsh

Yorsh is a simple mixed drink made with beer and vodka. It is associated with Russia and nearby regions. Because it combines beer with spirits, it can be stronger than it tastes, so it is one to approach carefully.

26. Yuengling Beer

Yuengling is an American beer brand. It may not be easy to find in ordinary UK supermarkets, but specialist beer shops or online importers may stock it from time to time.

27. Yanjing Beer

Yanjing is a Chinese beer brand. It is sometimes available in Chinese restaurants, Asian supermarkets or specialist drinks shops. It is typically a pale lager-style beer.

28. Yukon Jack

Yukon Jack is a Canadian whisky-based liqueur with a sweet, warming character. It is sometimes served neat, over ice or in mixed drinks.

Handy Table of Y Drinks

Budget Recipe: Yuzu-Style Lemonade

Real yuzu juice can be expensive, so this budget-friendly version uses easy UK supermarket ingredients to give a similar sharp, fragrant citrus flavour. It is not authentic yuzu lemonade, but it is refreshing and cheap to make.

Ingredients

• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 lime, juiced
• Half an orange or grapefruit, juiced
• 1 to 2 tablespoons sugar, honey or simple syrup, to taste
• 500ml cold still or sparkling water
• Ice, optional
• A little citrus zest, optional

Equipment

• Jug
• Citrus juicer or fork
• Spoon
• Fine grater or zester, optional

Method

1. Juice the lemon, lime and orange or grapefruit into a jug.
2. Add the sugar, honey or syrup and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the cold water and stir again.
4. Taste and adjust with more sweetener or citrus juice if needed.
5. Serve over ice with a little citrus zest if you like a stronger aroma.

Storage Tips

Keep homemade lemonade covered in the fridge and drink it within 24 hours for the freshest taste. If using sparkling water, it is best served straight away as it will lose fizz over time.

Variations

• Mint version: add a few fresh mint leaves and lightly crush them in the jug.
• Ginger version: add a splash of ginger cordial or a few slices of fresh ginger.
• Iced tea version: replace half the water with cooled black or green tea.
• Lower sugar version: use less sweetener and add extra orange juice for natural sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with spicy food, sushi-style bowls, noodle salads or a simple picnic lunch. It also works well as a non-alcoholic option for a summer barbecue.

Money-Saving Tips for Trying Y Drinks

• Check world food aisles: Asian supermarkets often have yuzu, yuja-cha, Yali pear drinks and unusual teas at better prices than speciality online shops.
• Buy small first: yerba mate, yellow tea and yaupon tea all have distinctive flavours. Try a small pack before committing to a big bag.
• Use frozen fruit: frozen mango, berries and pineapple are ideal for yoghurt smoothies and often reduce waste.
• Make café-style drinks at home: yuenyeung, yoghurt smoothies and citrus sodas are easy to recreate for less.
• Look for yellow-sticker fruit: reduced pears, watermelon, citrus fruit and mango can all be turned into juices, smoothies or lemonades.
• Avoid single cans where possible: multipacks or larger bottles of soft drinks usually work out cheaper per serving, provided you will actually use them.

Best Y Drinks for Different Needs

FAQs About Drinks That Start With Y

What is a common drink that starts with Y?

Yakult, yoghurt drinks and Yorkshire Tea are some of the most common drinks that start with Y in the UK. They are easy to find in major supermarkets.

What soft drinks start with Y?

Soft drinks beginning with Y include yuzu lemonade, yuzu soda, yoghurt drinks, Yoo-hoo, young coconut water, yellow watermelon juice and Yali pear juice.

What alcoholic drinks start with Y?

Alcoholic drinks that start with Y include Yellow Chartreuse, Yellow Bird cocktail, Yellow Hammer cocktail, Yorsh, Yuengling beer, Yanjing beer and Yukon Jack.

Is yerba mate a tea?

Yerba mate is often treated like tea, but it is not made from the tea plant. It is an infusion made from yerba mate leaves and it naturally contains caffeine.

Is yuzu the same as lemon?

No. Yuzu is a separate citrus fruit with its own flavour. It tastes sharp and fragrant, with notes that can remind people of lemon, mandarin and grapefruit.

What is the cheapest Y drink to make at home?

A yoghurt smoothie is usually one of the cheapest Y drinks to make at home, especially if you use plain yoghurt, a banana and reduced or frozen fruit. Yorkshire Tea is another low-cost everyday option if bought in larger packs.

What Y drink is good for an alphabet party?

Yuzu-style lemonade is a good choice for an alphabet party because it is easy to make in a jug, looks appealing and works as a non-alcoholic drink for most guests. For adults, a Yellow Bird cocktail also fits the theme.

Are there any hot drinks that start with Y?

Yes. Hot drinks that start with Y include Yorkshire Tea, yuzu tea, yuja-cha, yellow tea, Yunnan tea, yaupon tea, yerba mate and yak butter tea.