Trends are constantly evolving and the world of mixology is no exception. New cocktail trends are going to start to appear everywhere on the bar scene, so if you want to know what the next big drink trends are for 2023, here’s a sneaky peek into what mixes are set to be huge in the new year.
- Conscious cocktails
As the world becomes more aware of our impact on the planet, conscious cocktails are becoming more in fashion. Many consumers now look for recyclable packaging and natural or sustainable ingredients. Some bars are even incorporating foraged ingredients into their mixes for the ultimate locally-sourced drink.
- Spritzes
Spritz drinks have really taken off in the last few years, with Aperol spritz suddenly rising in popularity in 2017. Lighter than many other cocktails, the demand for spritzes looks set to continue in 2023, evoking a European holiday feel.
For customers seeking bold flavours, coffee-based cocktails are set to be a big hit in the new year. Classics like the espresso martini and Irish coffee have already been around for a long time and their popularity is likely to continue. You can also expect to see bartenders using the best coffee cocktail recipes to create innovative signature drinks.
- CBD cocktails
CBD is the non-psychoactive element of cannabis and in the last few years we’ve seen it become more and more available in soft drinks, food, and health supplements. Mixologists are starting to incorporate CBD into cocktails, as well as new spirits containing CBD that are now launching on the market.
- Flavoured spirits
Flavoured gins have been around for a while but the trend is set to expand to other types of spirits too, adding a whole new dimension when mixed into a cocktail. Sales of flavoured vodka and flavoured rum have been steadily increasing over the last few years, and new options are exploding onto the scene like green watermelon-flavoured vodka or chai spiced gin.
Mocktails or mixes with low or no alcohol content are becoming increasingly popular as consumers typically begin to learn how to carry out mindful drinking practices. For both teetotallers and those who just fancy a break from alcohol, more creative mixed drinks are set to be on the menu in 2023. More bars are now coming up with signature menus of inventive non-alcoholic mixes.
- Hot and spicy
In a quest for new flavours and experiences, hot and spicy cocktails are tipped to be big in the coming year. Many cocktail drinkers are familiar with tabasco sauce in a bloody Mary but tastes are shifting even more in this direction. You can expect to see more vodka and tequila-based mixes paired with spicy flavours like tabasco or jalapeno.