Bacardi predicts cocktail trends for 2023

Virtual experimentation and conscious cocktails have been noted as trends to watch in 2023 by Bacardi.

In the latest Bacardi Cocktail Trends Report, created in partnership with The Future Laboratory (TFL), five key trends were highlighted as ones to watch next year.

The research looked at Bacardi-led consumer surveys and bartender insights.

Bacardi sees a ‘pleasure revolution’ coming in 2023, with consumers shunning convention in favour of new experiences. The brand believes this will include fresh ingredients and flavours.

The report also highlighted how almost 40% of people in the US and the UK enjoy spirits and cocktails earlier in the evening due to hybrid working environments. As such, Bacardi envisions more consumers will redefine when and where they drink, and the styles of drinks they choose.

Virtual experimentation will also be key, Bacardi notes, with 31% of US respondents reporting they plan to increase their use of online delivery services to deliver cocktails to their homes in 2023.

Sophisticated sips were also highlighted as a trend to watch, with minimalist serves becoming increasingly popular. Of those surveyed, 72% of bartenders said they were seeing the most premiumisation in the Tequila category, followed by single malts, aged rum, and mezcal.

Finally, conscious cocktails were noted as a trend to watch next year due to the ongoing ‘mindful drinking movement’.

Brenda Fiala, global vice-president of strategy, insights and analytics at Bacardi, said: “As 2023 arrives, we see people adapt to the shifts around them and the onus is on brands to find innovative ways to captivate and delight their audiences.

“As cocktail culture flourishes, people are seeking inspiration from the new flavours, sensations, and experiences they’re seeing in bars and restaurants, and using these to deepen their enjoyment in the creation of cocktails.”