A Diesel, also called a Dirty Pint in some pubs, is lager mixed with cola and a splash of blackcurrant cordial, a dark, fizzy pint that’s more common behind a UK or Australian bar than most people realize.
It works the same way a Snakebite and Black does: the cola adds sweetness and body while the blackcurrant cordial rounds out the flavor so the whole thing doesn’t just taste like flat cola with beer in it.
It’s built straight in the glass with no shaking or stirring beyond a quick combine, cordial and cola first, lager poured slowly on top to keep some fizz.
| Style | Lager, cola and blackcurrant cordial |
| Base beer | 8oz lager |
| ABV (approx) | 2.5-3%, cut with cola and cordial |
| Serves | 1 |
Where the Diesel Comes From
The Diesel is a close cousin of the Snakebite, and both come out of British pub culture, likely from the 1970s or 1980s when mixing lager and cider by the pint became a cheap, popular thing to order among students and budget drinkers. Its exact origin is not documented anywhere I can point to, which is typical of pub drinks that spread by word of mouth rather than invention.
What sets the Diesel apart from a plain Snakebite is the dash of blackcurrant cordial, which turns the drink a deep, almost Guinness-dark color and adds a jammy, fruity note through the middle. It is especially associated with pubs in the north east of England.
How to Make It
Diesel (Dirty Pint)
Ingredients
- 8 oz lager cold
- 4 oz cola chilled
- 0.5 oz blackcurrant cordial such as Ribena
- 1 wedge apple optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Pour the blackcurrant cordial into a pint glass.
- Add the cola and stir briefly to combine.
- Top slowly with the lager, pouring down the side of the glass to control the foam.
- Give it one gentle stir, garnish with an apple wedge if using, and serve immediately.
Want more beer picks for the summer? Check our best session beers for summer guides.
Gear That Helps
Making a batch for a crowd? A beverage dispenser from our shop keeps a pre-mixed pitcher cold and ready to pour.
Swaps Worth Trying
- Go non-alcoholic: non-alcoholic lager and cider still get you the same color and fruit note, just without the alcohol.
- Adjust the cordial: more blackcurrant makes it sweeter and darker, less keeps it closer to a plain Snakebite.
- Watch the ratio: too much cider and it gets syrupy sweet, too much lager and you lose the fruit note. Equal parts is the safest starting point.
Beers Worth Trying in This One
FAQ
Is a Diesel the same as a Dirty Pint?
They’re generally the same drink under two different pub names, lager, cola and a splash of blackcurrant cordial, though local variations exist.
What cordial should I use?
A blackcurrant squash like Ribena is the standard choice. It’s stronger and more concentrated than juice, so a small splash goes a long way.
Can I use diet cola?
Yes, it will just come out slightly less sweet. The blackcurrant cordial still carries most of the flavor either way.
More beer cocktails: see the full Beer Cocktails guide for every recipe in this collection.
