Some flavor combinations seem obvious. Gin and tonic. Rum and cola. Tequila and lime. Others are less expected, yet work surprisingly well together. One of the most exciting examples is the combination of Radler and pandan.

At first glance, a German beer-based refreshment and a Southeast Asian flavor may appear to have little in common. Yet when paired thoughtfully, they create a remarkably balanced and refreshing drink that feels perfectly suited to summer.

What is a Radler?

Originating in Germany, the Radler is traditionally made by combining beer with a citrus-flavored soda, most commonly lemon. The result is a light, crisp, and highly refreshing drink with lower alcohol content than beer alone.

Over the years, Radler has become popular throughout Europe, particularly during the warmer months. Its combination of gentle malt notes, bright citrus flavors, and lively carbonation makes it a favorite for terraces, outdoor dining, and summer gatherings.

Today, many breweries offer their own interpretations, ranging from classic lemon Radlers to versions featuring grapefruit, blood orange, or other citrus fruits.

What is Pandan?

Pandan is a tropical plant widely used throughout Southeast Asia. Its long green leaves are prized for their distinctive aroma and are commonly used in desserts, cakes, rice dishes, and beverages. More about Pandan, click here.

The flavor of pandan is difficult to compare to any single Western ingredient. It is often described as a combination of vanilla, toasted rice, coconut, fresh herbs, and a subtle floral character.

This unique profile has made pandan increasingly popular among bartenders and mixologists looking for new and versatile flavors to work with.

In recent years, pandan has begun appearing in cocktail bars around the world, where it is valued for its ability to add complexity without overwhelming other ingredients.

Why Radler & Pandan work so well together

Great cocktails are built on balance, and Radler and pandan complement each other in several ways.

Citrus enhances pandan’s aromatics
The bright citrus notes found in Radler help lift the aromatic qualities of pandan. Lemon and grapefruit naturally highlight pandan’s vanilla-like and tropical characteristics, making the flavor more expressive and vibrant.

Sweetness meets refreshment
Pandan contributes a gentle sweetness and rich aroma, while Radler delivers crisp carbonation and refreshing acidity. Together, they create a drink that feels flavorful without becoming heavy.

Familiar yet unexpected
One of the reasons this combination works so well is that it feels both recognizable and new. Most consumers are already familiar with Radler, while pandan introduces an intriguing layer of flavor that many people have never experienced before. The result is approachable enough for casual drinkers while remaining interesting for cocktail enthusiasts.

Perfect for warm weather
Both ingredients share one important characteristic: refreshment. The sparkling nature of Radler and the aromatic freshness of pandan create a serve that is ideal for sunny afternoons, rooftop bars, garden parties, and outdoor dining.

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Introducing the Bandler

At Bandoeng’22, our passion is introducing Asian flavors to modern cocktail culture. Naturally, we became curious about what would happen if we paired our award-winning Pandan Liqueur with one of Europe’s most refreshing summer drinks.

Combining Bandoeng’22 Pandan Liqueur with Radler creates a cocktail that is bright, approachable, and packed with character. The citrus notes provide freshness, while the pandan adds layers of vanilla, coconut, and tropical aromas that transform a familiar Radler into something entirely new. The result is the Bandler

It is simple to make, easy to enjoy, and perfectly suited for summer occasions.

A new direction for Summer drinking

As consumers continue to explore new flavors and lower-ABV serves, combinations like Radler and pandan are becoming increasingly relevant. They offer the refreshment people want from beer-based drinks while introducing the creativity and flavor complexity typically associated with cocktails.

The Bandler is a perfect example of this new generation of summer serves: uncomplicated, refreshing, and just adventurous enough to surprise people. Sometimes the most memorable flavor combinations are the ones nobody saw coming.