The spirits industry continues to evolve at a rapid speed to accommodate the changing tastes and drinking habits of consumers. While some trends were brought into existence by the Covid-19 pandemic, others are simply in reply to the needs of the market. There are also, of course, the trends brought on by other global and regional trends involving a newfound appreciation for the environment and personal well-being. Let’s take a look at some of the alcohol trends that continue to impress and entice as we slowly approach the end of another year.
Fresh Alcohol Trends
Craft Distilleries Continue To Rise
The history of craft beer in the USA dates back to the 1960s. During the 1970s, homebrewing started to gain popularity and by the 1990s, the hype around microbreweries was in full swing. While craft beer continues to enjoy a steady rise in popularity across the globe, focus has recently shifted more toward craft spirit distilleries in recent times. These distillers are popular for several reasons including their dedication to producing high-quality products that satisfy modern needs and adhering to sustainable and ethical business practices. Small eco-friendly touches, such as using brown recycled bottles for Vodka instead of traditional clear-glass options, and minimizing travel distances by supporting local suppliers are not uncommon.
Hard Seltzers Remain A Hot Commodity
Hard seltzers continue to trend alongside the increased interest in improved health and general well-being. In fact, the market is expected to be worth a whopping $57 billion by 2030 according to a recent report by Grand View Research. Unlike their sugary spirit cooler counterparts, seltzers are low in sugar, calories, and alcohol making them a far healthier choice. With the market becoming more competitive, seltzer manufacturers are pulling out all the stops in an attempt to gain a competitive advantage. When seltzers were first introduced to the market, citrus and other fruity flavors reigned supreme. Since then, more exotic flavors including chamomile and bubblegum have also made their appearance. This year, flavor trends have included hard kombucha and iced tea.
Celebrities Drive The Tequila Trend
A 2021 report issued by Drizly predicted that tequila would be the spirit of choice during 2022. For countless years, tequila was most commonly enjoyed in Margarita and Paloma cocktails or in shooter form at rowdy bars and parties. Now, more consumers are starting to appreciate the fact that some high-quality tequilas, particularly reposado, and añejo tequila are best enjoyed neat. Blanco tequilas have been promoted from their cocktail status and are now commonly enjoyed mixed with club soda and lime juice. The current tequila trend is being propelled forward by A-listers such as Kendall Jenner, George Clooney, and Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson who have founded their own labels with great success. Talking about world-renowned figures being the face of a brand, James Bond made martinis famous being one of the pioneers of product placement in the movies while playing casino games, like the ever-popular roulette game.
Every year we are presented with a host of new and exciting alcohol trends. While some alcohol trends fizzle out and die before Valentine’s Day already, there are some that are still around during the festive season and beyond.
