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2023’s Top Cocktail Trends
In the realm of mixology, 2023 marked a year filled with innovation and unexpected shifts, peppered with a dose of trendy creativity. The year faced challenges such as climate changes impacting crop yields, fluctuations in spirit sales, and evolving beer formulas. Notably, this period saw the rise of unique beverages, including a cream liqueur with a “Waffles & Syrup” flavor and a distinctive smoked-trout brandy. Moreover, several timeless spirits and liqueurs also gained recognition, many securing positions in the Top 100 Spirits of 2023 list.
Among the acclaimed spirits, several were celebrated for their standalone quality, while others were integrated into the most celebrated cocktail recipes of the year. The cocktail scene was vibrant, featuring everything from a lavender-tinted cocktail inspired by Taylor Swift to the viral Parmesan espresso martini, showcasing a vast and eclectic mix of trendy drinks. As the year draws to a close, it’s customary to reflect on the past year’s highlights, prompting an analysis of the most dominant cocktail trends.
Unexpectedly, the list features both perennial favorites from previous years, like the beloved hot buttered rum, and surprising new entries such as the Hugo Spritz, hailed as this summer’s unofficial beverage (apologies to Tay Tay).
We’re highlighting the top picks that resonated most with our readers this year. Whether your go-to drink made the list or not, one can only speculate which cocktail trends will captivate us in 2024.
Dark ‘n’ Stormy Nightcap
Don’t be fooled by its brooding name; the Dark ‘n’ Stormy offers a refreshing burst of flavor with its simple trio of ingredients, making it an easy favorite for any cocktail lover.
Timeless Hot Buttered Rum
This hot rum concoction might raise eyebrows with its buttery twist, but its centuries-old tradition and warming taste continue to charm fans of seasonal beverages.
The Healing Penicillin
While it shares its name with a famous antibiotic, the Penicillin cocktail won’t remedy your illnesses. Nonetheless, its harmonious blend of honey, ginger, lemon, and Scotch creates a comforting and tasty concoction.
Mysterious Hugo Spritz
The Hugo spritz captivates with its light, sparkling body and subtle floral notes, complemented by mint. Its sudden rise as the preferred summer beverage of 2023 adds an air of intrigue to its refreshing sip.
The Enigmatic Brandy Alexander
Well-known yet not as commonly sampled, the Brandy Alexander offers a rich, creamy delight with its mix of Cognac, dark crème de cacao, and heavy cream, reminiscent of an adult milkshake.
Hidden Gem: Vieux Carré
In the shadow of the famous Sazerac, the Vieux Carré stands out with its robust blend of bourbon, Cognac, and Bénédictine, embodying the spirit of New Orleans.
Springtime Gin Daisy
Margarita aficionados may find a new favorite in the gin daisy, with its beautiful blend of herbal gin, orange liqueur, grenadine, and a splash of soda water, presenting a floral spectacle in every sip.
Autumnal Apple Cider Sangria
Sangria’s versatility shines in this fall variation, combining the sweetness of fresh apple cider with the crispness of dry white wine, a seasonal hit among our readers.