Every new year brings with it a new range of exciting drink trends to tantalize the tastebuds of both serious alcohol connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
2023 is promising to be a particularly exciting year as some old favorites are predicted to make a comeback alongside a number of new red-hot trends.
From full-bodied, flavorsome vodkas and the return of RTDs to low and no-alcohol drinks getting a sophisticated makeover, here’s a closer look at just three of the top drink trends to watch in 2023.
Vodka Sport More Character
Traditionally, a good quality vodka was marked by a pure, neutral flavor profile that can serve as a blank canvas for a variety of tantalizing cocktails.
In recent times, however, many distillers have decided to ‘take a walk on the wild side’ and make vodka with a bit more character.
Craft distillers are at the forefront of the taste revolution, using raw ingredients that each produce a subtly different taste.
A rye-based vodka will, for example, have a slightly nutty taste. A vodka that is balanced with potato, on the other hand, will boast a distinctly creamier texture.
Vodka made from considerably more unusual ingredients such as discarded grape skins and cow’s whey is also predicted to skyrocket in popularity next year alongside offerings with subtle floral and fruity undertones.
RTD Cocktails Return with a Bang
At the height of the pandemic, pre-packaged drinks became extremely popular. Now, as the new year is looming ready-to-drink beverages (RTDs) are once again expected to enjoy a surge in appeal.
In fact, industry experts have predicted that the RTD market will grow to 32 billion dollars at the end of 2024. Conveniently packaged beer, seltzers, and cocktails will not only be bought for at-home consumption, but for use in the hospitality industry as well.
Yes, restaurants and other venues are jumping on board the RTD trend to appeal to a larger demographic and boost their alcohol sales.
Low and No-Alcohol Drinks Become Sophisticated
As more Americans are turning to a healthier lifestyle the market for low and no-alcohol drinks is bound to grow accordingly.
Research has found that only approximately 17% of people who buy these products completely abstain from drinking full-strength alcohol.
Because of this, many of the same flavor trends that are found in other segments of the market are also presenting themselves in low and no-alcohol drinks.
Sophisticated botanical flavors are going to be a huge hit next year, especially among the health-centric millennial crowd.
Mocktails in all the colors and flavors of the rainbow will definitely not be taking a back seat to the new offerings while kombucha and subtly-flavored water will cement themselves as the drinks of choice among health fanatics.
Next year is promising to be a very exciting one as far as drinks are concerned. Apart from the new trends to look forward, a few old favorites will also make a very welcome comeback.