Continuation of the Ginaissance: Gin Trends 2023

Who would have thought back in 2017 when gin began its ascent towards the title of the nation’s favourite spirit that five years later the Ginaissance would still be in full effect. A recent survey published by Accor found gin was the UK’s joint first spirit (vodka being its equal) of choice taking a 9.3% of the national vote when asked to name their favourite alcoholic beverage. So, as we head into 2023 it only makes sense to review the emerging trends of this year and begin outlining general themes set to hit the industry.

Premium Gins

Over recent years the media and various industries have begun coining the term “premiumisation” where an upscaling in quality or luxury has occurred. Naturally, this has created a premium standard seeking audience who want to explore and experience a higher quality of drink. Understandably, gin lends itself very well to premium brands and imagery due to it being a spirit which is more often used with a mixer or in cocktails. If a bar owner is looking to take advantage of this trend by adding premium gin options to your menu we’d recommend doing your research. Look into what flavours are trending, which brands are known for their superiority and what presents itself as a luxury drink. Also remember it is not just the gin which validates premiumisation, the whole experience of the drink needs to exude exclusivity. To enjoy a drink properly it must be paired perfectly with a complementary mixer, embellished with a taste enhancing garnish and served in a glass which instantly evokes flavoursome quality. When deciding upon what glassware would suit a gin best there are only really two options: the classic hiball and a goblet (balloon glass).

Flavoured Gins

One of the reasons the ginaissance has been so successful and long lasting is the arrival of flavoured gins. Prior to 2017 many people would probably have been able name three gin brands (Tanqueray, Bombay Sapphire and Gordons), but now brands can be more easily remembered thanks to their flavoured options. A recent report from CGA Strategy found flavoured gins currently make up 45% of the gin market share, showing how vital it is to have them as a part of a bar’s offering. Naturally, some of the flavours have been a little suspect and unusual but it has allowed a large volume of distilleries to present a range of drinks all of which are flavoured thus opening up the gin market which previously was quite closed. If you do not stock many gins then knowing where to begin adding flavoured options can be difficult, we would suggest citrus, wild berry (such as strawberry, raspberry and blackcurrant), rhubarb and spiced are a great initial starting place. Regarding 2023 flavour trends, following the blood orange taste which took the cocktail world by storm during 2022 we feel other unusual citruses such as yuzu or bergamot will be popular. Salty flavours like seaweed may find a footing next year whilst tones such as cinnamon, mint and rosemary are all equally potential stars. Also, ensure you stock plenty of drink garnishes which accompany the flavours you have chosen such as fruits, berries, cucumbers and other such ingredients.

Non-Alcoholic Gins

As we have covered in our restaurant trends for 2023, mocktails are big and they are only getting bigger. With 25% of young people (16-24) classing themselves as non-drinkers¹ there is a need to develop and offer a non-alcoholic menu of drinks. As a result, gin brands have responded by producing 0% versions of their best-selling lines to try and capture this surfacing audience. Understandably, some brands have not joined the mocktail revolution but those who have recognise the audience and appreciate they are a spending market who have disposable income and still actively enjoy going out.

2023 Mixers

During the boom in gin, the spirit has naturally taken centre stage but recently bars have begun taking more note of the mixers they are using. When pairing mixers with a gin, mixologists need to take into account the flavours of both along with the strength of the gin measure itself. You may find some mixers (and their associated flavours) suit a single measure better than a double. Always make sure you test out your pairings so you can give your customers the best taste experience. Mixers have also started to succumb to the premiumisation trend, much like the drink market in general. Fentimans, Fevertree and Schweppes are all staples but with luxury being a new trend, customers want something even more exclusive. Always make sure you know the mixer market and make yourselves aware of any new contenders to the market and if there are, try them. Trying new options as a bar owner is a necessity as this allows you to stay on trend whilst helping you appreciate the differences between premium mixers and low-cost alternatives. Here at Alliance Online we appreciate trends are forever moving and changing, especially in the hospitality and leisure industries. As such, make sure your bar is always current both where their drinks selections and product offerings are concerned. If you are looking to implement any of the trends, we have discussed make sure your bar and glassware is both up to date and up to the task. View our wide selection of bar products to make sure your bar and its staff are properly equipped. References

1. The Guardian – Young People Drinking Alcohol Study England: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2018/oct/10/young-people-drinking-alcohol-study-england