We all know that first impressions stick – especially when you’re on a first date. It’s a matter of make-or-break: whether tonight will turn into a potential relationship, or simply complete humiliation that will abruptly cut any further contact.

Part of the nerve-racking process of the first date is ordering the first drink. This drink will implicitly say a lot about you and will be a contributing factor on whether your date will even give you a shot (no pun intended).

But relax, there’s no need to fret. Here’s our hand-picked guide to the your first-date drinks order and what it projects to your potential new significant other.

Wine
Keeping it simple yet classy. There’s very few who don’t enjoy a glass of wine after a grueling day at the office or enjoyed over a delicious meal.

Red screams seduction, and has more romantic element of it. While white, often provides a more fresh and light drink choice.

Our advice: Don’t mumble the name in some half-arsed French accent. No one will be impressed by that!

Check out: Parlour Wine Room (Kendall Lane, NewActon) – an intimate spot for a date with a superior wine list!

Beer
It’s the true hallmark of Australian drinking culture and as such is a real crowd-pleaser. Beer offers the message that you’re cool with a laid-back attitude (and not one bit nervous about the date), but ready to drink if necessary.

Our advice: Let’s face it – you’ll be hard done by to find a man who doesn’t appreciate a chick who enjoys a pint of beer!

Check out: Debacle (Lonsdale Street, Braddon) – with a strong tradition of offering some of the best specialty craft in beers in the city!

Cocktails
These are great as cocktails are often a mid-strength mixer. They’re not so strong as to make you slur your words, but large enough to be sipped over a sufficient period of time. There’s endless variety, meaning there will always be something to choose from.

Our Advice
Stick to what you know. Don’t order something too unusual as it may a) derail the conversation or b) make you look particularly silly if the bartender hasn’t got a clue what you’re talking about.

Check out: Mint Garden Bar (Gorman House, Braddon) – a hidden gem pumping out seriously delicious cocktails in a delightful garden setting!

The Simple Ones
These are your standards – the faithful G&T or a safe vodka mixer. Unambiguous and easy, you know exactly what to expect when you order it.

Our Advice – Make sure it’s a long drink – you don’t want to receive a drink that is too short and is downed in a blink of the eye. No one wants to see you stumble out of the place!

Check out: Little Brooklyn (Green Square, Kingston) – A suburban pub that is perfect for either a relaxed drink or a meal.

Make sure you make the right first sip!