2025 Drinking Trends You Need to Know

If you love trying new drinks, 2025 is throwing a lot your way. From bold cocktails that scream personality to low‑alcohol mocktails that still feel fancy, the scene is buzzing. Below you’ll find the trends that are actually being talked about, not just hype on Instagram.

Cocktails & Mocktails: What’s Hot Right Now

First up, cocktails. The biggest move is toward simplified classics with a twist. Think an Old Fashioned that swaps regular sugar for a dash of maple syrup, or a Margarita that uses agave instead of triple sec. Bartenders love these swaps because they keep the drink familiar while adding a story you can share.

At the same time, sustainability is becoming a selling point. More bars are sourcing locally‑grown herbs, low‑waste fruit peels, and even compostable straws. When you order a drink with a “farm‑to‑glass” label, you’re not just getting flavor—you’re supporting a greener supply chain.

Mocktails are no longer just “kids’ drinks.” The 2024 mocktail wave turned into 2025’s golden ratio formula: 1 part sour, 1 part sweet, 2 parts base (like tonic or soda). This balance makes the drink feel full‑bodied without any alcohol. Popular flavors include smoky rosemary, tangy yuzu, and earthy beet‑juice mixers. If you’re hosting a party, putting a few of these on the menu lets everyone feel included.

Another mocktail trend is the rise of non‑alcoholic spirits. Brands are creating gin‑like or whiskey‑like alternatives that you can mix just like the real thing. Pair them with fresh herbs, citrus, and a splash of club soda for a guilt‑free buzz.

Beer & Wine: Festival Vibes and Tasting Tweaks

Beer lovers aren’t left out. While Oktoberfest still dominates headlines, the Starkbierfest in Munich is gaining a reputation as the second biggest beer festival. Expect stronger brews, longer lines, and plenty of local food stalls. If you can’t travel, many festivals now stream live tastings, so you can join from your couch.

Craft beer hype continues, but there’s a new twist: many brewers are experimenting with lower ABV (alcohol by volume) versions that let you enjoy more pints without the hangover. Look for “session” IPAs or “lite” stouts that still pack flavor.

On the wine side, the biggest change is how people approach tasting. The old “swirl, sniff, sip” routine is still there, but more folks are spitting instead of swallowing to keep their palate fresh. This practice, once reserved for pros, is now common at casual wine bars because it lets you try more wines without feeling overwhelmed.

Food pairings are getting adventurous, too. White wines like Pinot Grigio are being matched with spicy Asian dishes, while bold reds are paired with grilled fruit desserts. The rule of thumb? Match intensity, not just flavor.

Finally, home brewing is seeing a modest surge. People are asking, “Is two weeks enough to ferment beer?” The answer is usually yes if you pick a simple ale recipe and keep temperature steady. A quick guide: boil, add yeast, wait 7‑10 days for primary fermentation, then another week for conditioning. You’ll have a decent batch without the stress of a month‑long wait.

Whether you’re sipping a cocktail, enjoying a mocktail, cheering at a beer festival, or swirling a glass of wine, 2025 gives you plenty of fresh ways to explore. Keep an eye on the trends, try a new recipe, and let your taste buds lead the way.