8 Cocktail Trends to Watch out for in 2020
Whether you're a cocktail lover or not, 2020 is set to offer a cocktail combination to suit all tastes.
Just when you thought the world of mixology could not get any more inventive, something new and exciting and maybe a little daring lands on the table. Here are some of the top cocktail trends we can expect to see in the very near future...
The cocktail has come extremely far since its humble beginnings which date back over 200 years. That's right, humanity has been sipping on their favorite mixture of tipple for over two centuries. While punch, the great, great grandmother of them all has been around since the 1600s.
Much of this evolution can be attributed to trends in food and the ingredients we have consumed over the ages - that and the Prohibition, of course. Whether you're a fan of a simple whiskey sour or an elegant lychee martini, hold onto your seat as the cocktail game has much to offer in 2020...
1. Simple is Best
While some mixologists enjoy the thrill of crafting creative and innovative cocktails with extended ingredients lists, others prefer to keep it simple. A growing trend in today's mixology world is to let the ingredients speak for themselves, as well as the understated garnishes.
In 2020 you'll most likely see a surge of simple, classic cocktails crafted with only the best ingredients and with impeccable skill. Forget the frills of umbrellas, flowers, salt or sugar-rimmed glasses. The vessel and the liquid will do all the talking.
2. Cocktails Inspired by Food
For decades, cocktails have been inspired by the culinary arts. And in today's world, the line between food and drink grows thinner. Savory cocktails are set to take precedence in 2020, infused with popular ingredients such as cucumber, Greek yogurt, and lemon. On an even more savory note, you can also expect to see the likes of beets, bone broth, Szechuan peppercorns, and bacon make an appearance in these cocktails inspired by food.
3. Pitcher Cocktails
The large scale cocktail is set to make a come-around in 2020 as they are perfect for large groups to enjoy together as they explore new cities and the local nightlife. They make for the perfect party starter and Insta moment, too.
Not only has this trend begun to emerge in popular cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and others, but it will also find its way into homes across the globe. The pitcher cocktail allows at-home entertainers to get creative and impress their guests on a large scale.
4. Fermented Inspiration
2020 is set to be the year of experimentation - and this includes the infusion of fermented ingredients in your cocktail. This includes the likes of kombucha, pickles (or cornichon), onion, and mushrooms. They are likely to appear as additions to your drink to create unusual flavor combinations or as simple garnishes to complement the overall flavor profile.
5. A Middle-Eastern Spice Kick
We've seen the likes of turmeric and matcha make their way into our hot drinks and smoothies. But in 2020 you can expect to see spices inspired by the Middle-East and the Far East make their way into cocktails, too. While rose and rose water have been a common theme in recent years, you can expect to see this Middle-Eastern flavor swapped out for turmeric, pepper, and cumin.
6. Augmented Reality and Immersive Cocktail Pairings
Technological advancements and cocktails don't always intersect. However, with recent advancements made in the use of apps, augmented reality menus, and 3D mapping we are sure to see this come more to the forefront. Cocktail lovers can look forward to cocktail tastings and menu descriptions with interactive and immersive elements.
7. Carbonation
Sparkling cocktail sales are higher than ever. The popularity of in-house carbonation, Prosecco, and the Aperol Spritz show no signs of slowing down. Mixologists will continue to innovate and look for ways to create their own signature in-house sodas through unique systems and adventurous flavours.
8. Unexpected Pairings
Finally, cocktail enthusiasts can expect to be left on their toes throughout 2020 as some rather unusual, unexpected ingredients make their way into the mixology world. Just some of these include the likes of anchovy, chorizo, endive, grains, thistle, tomatillo, jicama, and more. Did someone say ''vegetable cocktail?'' because this is what it sounds like!
Looking For the Best Cocktails in Singapore?
The SJS Group, based in Singapore, is a leading restaurant and nightlife management group which owns and operates some of the best restaurants, bars, and nightclubs in this world-class city. We are at the forefront of the world's cocktail trends and offer the best of the best.
Check out any one of our incredible properties, ranging from Bang Bang Nightclub, Employees Only Singapore, LuLu's Lounge Singapore, Papi's Tacos, and Pasta Bar and experience the best cocktails in the city!