February 14, 2022
How will we be quenching our thirst this year? In this pandemic-era, there is no doubt that the mega-trends for the new year will center around healthier and ‘cleaner’ beverages. Below are the drink trends we think we’ll see heading into 2022.
1. Move Over White, the Red Is Ready to Chill.
What? We thought we’re supposed to chill our white wine and open our red to “breathe”? Well according to this up and coming trend, light, fruity and sparkling reds can be incredibly refreshing chilled. After all, wine sommeliers have been doing this practice for years now. Red wines such as pinot noir, but even some red blends and malbecs can take on a brighter and fresher vibe after some time in your fridge or ice bucket. Zinfandel, gamay (the grape of Beaujolais), and Italian varieties like freisa, frappato, and dolcetto are wonderful at cool temperatures. Try dropping those temps, and you might be surprised by the transformation.
2. Cider Isn’t Just for the Fall Harvest Anymore.
In the past several years, hard seltzer has been the up and coming drink of choice in the ready to drink single-serve category. Marthstewart.com is predicting craft apple and pear ciders to be the new hot discovery in 2022. This fermented juice which is marketed like a beer is in a category all it’s own. We will see many new varieties of hard cider this year. Reach out to our team at Bill Hansen Catering for creative ways to display already bottled ciders or to be requested at an open bar.
3. The Comeback King! The Spritzer.
The alcohol-free spirits industry is gaining traction. Guests are requesting alcohol-free or low-alcohol versions and cocktails more and more lately. The Spritz is a lighter wine-based drink containing wine with a splash of sparkling water. The German word for a splash of water is “spritz”. Many new variations and flavors of the spritz are making a splash in corporate event venues and wedding receptions with different liquor options. Try using Cynar, Campari, Limoncello, or even St Germain Elderflower Liqueur. You can also try adding Don Ciccio e Figli’s Donna Rosa Rabarbaro to your spritz; it’s an aperitivo made with rhubarb, honeysuckle, rose petals, and vanilla. Who doesn’t enjoy bubbles in their drink? Even pairing your favorite liquor such as vodka, rum, or gin with a sparkling wine makes a great combination.
4. Nuh -Nuh – Nun-Nun-Nun-Nuh Nuh Nuh, Tequila!
Tequila may still be a popular choice for shots or in your margarita, but this labor of love liquor is becoming an alcohol to be sipped, or mixed with club soda and a squeeze of lime and enjoyed after a long day at work. The celebrity trend to back your own liquor brand is helping tequila gain in popularity among the masses as well. Stars like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson (Teremana), George Clooney (Casamigos), and even Kendall Jenner (818 Tequila) have their own brands of tequila to market.