LONDONERS sip their first drinks at 7pm and it is likely to be sour, according to a new report.

Brits have a growing thirst for sour and bitter flavours, which is reflected by the popularity of citrus flavoured cocktails and mixed drinks, according to the study by thebar.com.

The first annual report by the website – which offers drinks inspiration and education from the brands like Smirnoff vodka, Gordon’s gin and Johnny Walker whisky – also revealed the country is divided on its favourite festive tipple and that rum is the spirit of the moment.

Drinkers in the capital are slightly earlier than average in reaching for the drinks, though people from Brighton are first to get pouring at 5pm.