Gen Z more likely to drink cocktails than beer

The 2025 Bacardi Cocktail Trends report showed of the 1,000 consumers surveyed, 35% of those aged 18 to 29 were more likely to drink a cocktail than beer while more than a quarter (29%) said the same about wine.

In addition, almost half (48%) of Gen Z respondents would prefer to celebrate a special moment with a cocktail instead of Champagne.

Gin & Tonic proved the most popular cocktail with 44% of all survey respondents. Piña Colada, Mojito and Margarita also made the top ten UK cocktails list.

In addition, Tequila was expected to increase in popularity across the on-trade next year.

Prime hotspot 

Globally, the top five cocktails according to Bacardi were the Mojito, Margarita, Spritz, Piña Colada and G&T.

Dry and Espresso Martinis, Tequila Sunrise, Bloody Mary and Daiquiri also made the top 20 list globally.

Bacardi head of advocacy UK & Ireland Davide Zanardo said: “The G&T tops our poll for 2025 so perhaps it’s not surprising it’s now rivalling the cup of tea as the country’s national drink.

“In 2025, the Tequila trend will be unstoppable with the Margarita shooting up the rankings of the most popular cocktails in the UK, rising eight places from number 13 in 2024 to fifth in 2025.

“Agave is what everyone in the industry is talking about and that’s reflected in the demand for ultra-premium Tequilas.”

The report also found customers were looking for more premium and immersive experiences, for example themed menus relating to popular events.

Bacardi added hospitality venues have become a “prime hotspot” for concert goers and sports fans in particular looking to “enhance their experiences”.

A meaningful connection with bartenders and artistic finesse were also important as use of new technology and AI becomes more widespread.

Multi-sensory experiences 

“In 2024, the onset of new technologies – generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) chief among them – placed a spotlight on the power of human touch.

“Connection, craft and creativity are now prized ingredients for meaningful experiences, with 2025 set to be the year for drinks moments that showcase knowledge, and illustrate the importance of true, time-honed expertise”, the report added.

Moreover, the survey revealed UK respondents were prepared to pay more for a cocktail that offered a “multi-sensory experience”.

The report said: “In 2024, spirits weathered sector headwinds and the sea change of consumer mindsets looking for new connections with brands.

“Companies turned to creativity, adaptation and fortitude to capture the attention and love of fans.

“Traditional alcohol consumption is emerging re-imagined. The focus is on evolution, rather than transformation, with flavour-centric, experience-focused, and expert-led developments setting the industry’s mood for incremental innovation.”