A Look Into This Year’s Trends in Mixology According to SGW&S

Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, the biggest wine and spirits distributor in the U.S., has expanded its Liquid Insights Tour, an educational program that travels across the country to explore the latest trends in mixology and wine.

This year, experts visited six cities: New York City, Los Angeles, Austin, Portland, Denver, and Tampa, sharing what’s new and exciting in the world of drinks.

The tour uncovered ten key trends that are expected to shape the wine and spirits industry in 2025. One of the biggest trends is botanical beverages, which use plant-based ingredients to add fresh, herbal flavors to cocktails. Another growing trend is clarified and carbonated drinks, which offer a smoother and cleaner taste. The martini is also making a comeback, with bartenders experimenting by adding unique ingredients like olive oil or savory flavors to this classic drink.

Speaking of savory, umami, the savory taste usually found in foods like mushrooms or cheese, is being used more in cocktails, adding depth and new flavors to drinks. Lychee, a sweet and floral fruit, is becoming popular in cocktails, especially in drinks that go well with the returning martini trend. Venues are also mixing things up by offering both simple, elegant cocktails and over-the-top, showy drinks for a bit of fun.

Also noted is the growing popularity of low- and non-alcoholic cocktails, which are now more flavorful and exciting than ever. In wine, there’s a shift toward exploring more types of aromatic white wines and sparkling options from around the world. Chilled red wines and natural wines are also becoming popular, offering a lighter, more refreshing choice. Finally, “tiny tipples” are on the rise, with smaller portions of cocktails and wine giving guests the chance to try a variety of drinks without committing to a full serving.

These trends reflect how the beverage industry is evolving and keeping things fresh and exciting, and we have a lot to look forward to in the new year!

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