Trends don’t just come and go in the world of fashion. The art of cocktails is also extremely dynamic, lively and characterized by continuous change. Bartenders are constantly inspired by new trends and tendencies to create innovative creations.
But what’s actually hot at the bar at the moment? The following article presents the coolest trends in the world of cocktails.
Artificial intelligence is also influencing drinks
There is hardly an area of life today where artificial intelligence has not yet found its way into. Even cocktails can no longer escape the influence of AI. Here, it’s all about their recipes.
The use of AI gives bartenders, for example, the opportunity to individually adapt the flavours of cocktails to the personal taste of the respective guest. In this way, new creations can be discovered time and time again.
Nevertheless, the human element will still be indispensable at the bar in the future. The recipes provided by the AI should of course still be tasted by the bartender in person.
Bright colours are very popular
In the 1990s, cocktails were one thing above all: as colorful as possible. As the style of the 90s has also been celebrating a major comeback in fashion for some time now, it is hardly surprising that cocktails have also been influenced by the revival.
Whether it’s a Sex on the Beach, Cosmopolitan or Margarita – thanks to the skillful play of colours, they not only pamper the palate but also the eye. Of course, the fact that colorful cocktails are perfect for promoting on social media should not be overlooked.
Today, it is even possible to get the colorful drinks ready to drink straight from the tap – the delicious cocktails on tap can greatly reduce the workload of bartenders.
Things get spicy in 2024
In terms of the predominant flavors, this year is all about spicy. The popularity of hot or at least very spicy cocktail creations is on the rise, as more complex flavors are appreciated by more and more people.
The Dirty Martini or the Bloody Mari are, of course, among the true classics of spicy drinks. However, there is also a great demand for even spicier cocktails, such as a Michelada or a Mexican. A Michelada contains Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco, for example. Of course, the salt rim on the glass is also a must.
Cocktails with little or no alcohol
From a health perspective, there is also an extremely welcome trend: More and more people are making a conscious effort to consume alcohol. They drink less often or perhaps not at all. In 2024, however, this does not mean that they will have to do without a delicious cocktail.
Dry January, for example, is already a fixed ritual for many people. The trend is therefore towards cocktail creations that do not contain strong or large amounts of alcohol. There are already numerous bars offering a large selection of alcohol-free cocktails that are in no way inferior to the classics with alcohol.
Cocktails go sour
Citrus fruits should not be left out of the list of the most popular cocktail trends. Oranges, limes and the exotic yuzu lemons have been playing an important role in the really good bars of this world for some time now.
Cocktails containing bitter orange or grapefruit are particularly popular at the moment. The drinks are given a pleasant freshness by the tart and sour fruits. The popularity of sour cocktails also shows that sweet, sugary drinks are no longer in great demand. This trend can be perfectly implemented in the form of an Old Fashioned Paloma, for example.
Taste like in Italy: the aperitivos
The aperitif culture from Italy is also currently on an impressive triumphal march. Traditional drinks in this context include Aperol and Campari. Ramazzotti Rosato and Martini Fiero, on the other hand, are newer.
Manufacturers often recommend combining these spirits with tonic water or Prosecco. However, the aperitivos are also ideal as an ingredient in an exciting cocktail.
Beer meets cocktails
One of the most exotic trends this year is definitely the addition of beer to cocktails. However, the taste also quickly silences critical voices. Beer gives highball cocktails an exciting, tart twist.
However, it is important to choose the type of beer carefully. Craft beers with a high hop content are particularly recommended. These have the necessary assertiveness against the other aromas of the cocktail. They also give the drink a clear structure. Nevertheless, attention should also be paid to the alcohol content of the beer used – ideally, the creations should be characterized by a light, summery character.
