- A year etched in our memories for unprecedented reasons. Beyond the global challenges, however, life continued. And with life, came the ever-present question: what are we drinking? Defining the “best” drink is, of course, subjective, a delicious intersection of personal taste, cultural trends, and accessibility. But by examining the drinks that gained popularity, sparked conversations, and offered comfort during a tumultuous year, we can paint a picture of the definitive drinks of 2020.
The Rise of At-Home Mixology
One of the most significant shifts in drinking habits during 2020 was the explosion of at-home mixology. With bars and restaurants closed or operating under restrictions, people took to their kitchens to experiment with cocktails and explore new flavors. This led to a surge in online cocktail tutorials, subscription boxes featuring unique ingredients, and a newfound appreciation for the art of crafting a perfect drink.
The Negroni Renaissance
The Negroni, a classic Italian cocktail comprised of equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, experienced a major resurgence. Its simplicity and satisfyingly bitter flavor profile made it an ideal candidate for home bartenders of all skill levels. Plus, the Negroni offered a sense of sophisticated comfort during uncertain times. The drink is easily adjusted to one’s palate, and the inherent balance of the ingredients made it the perfect canvas for experimentation. The Negroni’s equal parts formula is easy to remember, encouraging even the most novice bartender to give it a try.
The Negroni Sbagliato: A Happy Accident
A popular variation, the Negroni Sbagliato (meaning “mistaken Negroni”), substituted Prosecco for gin, resulting in a lighter, bubblier version that appealed to a wider audience. This twist showcased the Negroni’s versatility and further cemented its place as a go-to cocktail.
Hard Seltzer Mania
No discussion of 2020’s drinks is complete without acknowledging the ubiquitous hard seltzer. Brands like White Claw and Truly dominated the market, offering a low-calorie, refreshing alternative to beer and sugary cocktails. The appeal was undeniable: light, bubbly, and available in a seemingly endless array of fruity flavors.
The rise of hard seltzer also reflected a broader trend towards healthier drinking options. Consumers were increasingly conscious of sugar content and calories, and hard seltzer provided a guilt-free way to enjoy an alcoholic beverage.
Beyond the Big Brands: Craft Seltzer Emerges
While the major brands captured the lion’s share of the market, smaller, craft seltzer producers began to emerge, offering more unique and complex flavor profiles, often using natural ingredients and locally sourced fruit.
Mocktails Take Center Stage
The year 2020 also saw a growing interest in non-alcoholic beverages, with mocktails becoming increasingly sophisticated and appealing. This trend reflected a broader shift towards mindful drinking and inclusivity, with bars and restaurants recognizing the need to offer exciting and flavorful options for those who choose not to consume alcohol.
Comfort in Familiar Flavors
In a year filled with uncertainty, many people sought comfort in familiar flavors and classic drinks.
The Timeless Appeal of Whiskey
Whiskey, in its various forms (bourbon, rye, scotch), remained a popular choice, offering a sense of warmth and familiarity. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan, whiskey provided a reassuring constant in a changing world.
Wine’s Enduring Popularity
Wine continued to be a staple for many, with online wine sales soaring as people looked for ways to elevate their at-home dining experiences. Virtual wine tastings became a popular way to connect with friends and family, and explore new varietals from the comfort of their homes. There was an increased interest in supporting local wineries, often buying directly from the vineyard, contributing to small businesses struggling during lockdowns.
Craft Beer’s Continued Innovation
Despite challenges facing the industry, craft breweries continued to innovate, experimenting with new styles and flavors, and finding creative ways to reach consumers. Curbside pickup and delivery became essential for survival, and many breweries offered special releases and collaborations to generate excitement.
Trends Driven by Social Media
Social media played a significant role in shaping drinking trends in 2020, with viral recipes and aesthetically pleasing cocktails gaining widespread popularity.
Dalgona Coffee: The Coffee Craze
While not strictly an alcoholic beverage, Dalgona coffee, a whipped coffee drink originating in South Korea, took the internet by storm. Its photogenic appearance and easy preparation made it a perfect quarantine project, and many people added a splash of their favorite liquor to create an adult version.
TikTok-Inspired Cocktails
TikTok became a hub for cocktail enthusiasts, with users sharing creative recipes and visually appealing drinks. These trends often led to shortages of specific ingredients as people rushed to recreate the viral sensations. One notable trend involved vibrant layered drinks, showcasing colorful syrups and juices.
The Verdict: A Year of Experimentation and Comfort
So, what was the best drink of 2020? It’s impossible to single out one specific beverage. Rather, 2020 was a year of experimentation, adaptation, and a search for comfort. The best drink was the one that provided solace, connection, or a moment of joy amidst the chaos. Whether it was a perfectly crafted Negroni, a refreshing hard seltzer, a comforting glass of whiskey, or a viral TikTok creation, the drinks of 2020 reflected the unique circumstances and individual preferences of a world in flux. It was also a year that highlighted the importance of supporting local businesses and finding creative ways to enjoy life’s simple pleasures, one sip at a time. Ultimately, the “best” drink was a deeply personal choice, and the trends of 2020 revealed a diverse and evolving landscape of tastes and preferences. The increased focus on at-home mixology and mindful drinking are trends that will likely continue to shape the beverage industry for years to come.
What overall drinking trends defined 2020, considering the global pandemic?
The year 2020 saw a significant shift towards at-home consumption and a heightened interest in health-conscious beverages. With bars and restaurants facing closures and restrictions, people began exploring mixology and cocktail creation in their own kitchens. Simultaneously, concerns about immunity and overall well-being drove demand for drinks perceived to offer health benefits, such as those with added vitamins, antioxidants, or lower alcohol content.
Beyond the practical shifts, the year also marked a period of experimentation and comfort-seeking. Homebound individuals invested in crafting unique and interesting drinks to break the monotony. This led to increased purchases of specialized ingredients, bar tools, and premium spirits. There was also a rise in demand for drinks that evoked feelings of nostalgia and comfort, offering a temporary escape from the anxieties of the pandemic.
How did ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails perform in 2020, and why?
Ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails experienced explosive growth in 2020. Their convenience, portability, and variety aligned perfectly with the changing consumer behavior. Faced with limited access to bars and a desire for easy solutions, people turned to RTDs as a simple way to enjoy a cocktail experience at home or in small, socially distanced gatherings. The innovation within the RTD category, featuring unique flavor combinations and premium ingredients, also fueled their popularity.
The rise of e-commerce also played a pivotal role. Consumers were able to easily browse and purchase a wide range of RTD cocktails online, further contributing to their impressive sales figures. Brands capitalized on this trend by investing in digital marketing and offering direct-to-consumer delivery options. The combination of convenience, accessibility, and innovation solidified RTD cocktails as a significant player in the beverage market.
What impact did the increased focus on health have on beverage choices in 2020?
The amplified focus on health in 2020 led to a surge in demand for beverages perceived to promote well-being. Drinks with added vitamins, minerals, or antioxidants, such as kombucha, functional beverages, and enhanced waters, gained considerable traction. Consumers actively sought out products that promised immune support, stress reduction, or improved hydration. This trend reflected a broader interest in proactive health management during a period of uncertainty.
Furthermore, there was a noticeable shift towards lower-alcohol and non-alcoholic options. Many individuals re-evaluated their drinking habits and opted for alternatives that allowed them to enjoy a beverage without the associated health risks of excessive alcohol consumption. This demand spurred innovation in the non-alcoholic beverage sector, with companies developing sophisticated alternatives to traditional alcoholic drinks, catering to a growing market of health-conscious consumers.
How did the wine industry adapt to the challenges of 2020?
The wine industry underwent significant adaptations to navigate the challenges of 2020. Wineries and retailers pivoted to online sales and direct-to-consumer delivery models to compensate for the closure of tasting rooms and restaurants. Virtual wine tastings and online educational programs became popular alternatives, allowing consumers to connect with winemakers and learn about different varietals from the comfort of their homes.
Beyond sales and marketing, winemakers also focused on sustainability and responsible practices to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. Many wineries highlighted their organic or biodynamic farming methods, emphasizing the connection between wine and the land. These efforts helped to maintain brand loyalty and attract new customers who valued ethical and sustainable production.
What role did online communities and social media play in shaping drinking trends in 2020?
Online communities and social media platforms became vital spaces for sharing and discovering drinking trends in 2020. Individuals used social media to share homemade cocktail recipes, participate in virtual happy hours, and connect with fellow beverage enthusiasts. This created a sense of community and fostered experimentation with new ingredients and techniques. Influencers and bloggers played a key role in popularizing certain drinks and brands, driving sales and shaping consumer preferences.
Moreover, social media platforms provided a valuable channel for beverage brands to engage with their customers. Companies used these platforms to launch new products, run promotions, and solicit feedback from their audience. The ability to interact directly with consumers in real-time allowed brands to quickly adapt to changing trends and tailor their marketing strategies accordingly. Social media became an essential tool for both consumers and beverage companies in navigating the evolving landscape of 2020.
Did any specific cocktail or spirit gain significant popularity in 2020? If so, why?
While no single cocktail completely dominated 2020, classic cocktails, particularly those that are easy to make at home, saw a resurgence in popularity. The Old Fashioned, Negroni, and Margarita, for example, experienced a revival due to their simple recipes and availability of ingredients. People sought comfort in familiar flavors and enjoyed the process of recreating these iconic drinks in their own kitchens. The focus shifted towards perfecting these classics rather than experimenting with complex new concoctions.
In terms of spirits, tequila and mezcal continued their upward trajectory, driven by increasing consumer awareness and appreciation for their complex flavors and versatility. The rise of premium tequila brands and the growing interest in mezcal’s artisanal production methods contributed to their sustained popularity. These spirits offered a sophisticated and flavorful alternative to more traditional options, appealing to those seeking a unique drinking experience.
How did the shift towards at-home consumption impact the demand for bar equipment and cocktail ingredients?
The shift towards at-home consumption in 2020 resulted in a significant increase in demand for bar equipment and cocktail ingredients. As people sought to recreate the bar experience in their homes, they invested in essential tools like shakers, jiggers, strainers, and glassware. Online retailers and specialty stores experienced a surge in sales of these items, reflecting the growing interest in home mixology. This demand extended beyond basic equipment to include more specialized tools, such as muddlers and ice molds.
Similarly, the demand for cocktail ingredients, including bitters, syrups, and premium mixers, saw a considerable increase. People were no longer content with using basic ingredients; instead, they sought out high-quality and unique flavor enhancers to elevate their homemade cocktails. This trend led to the emergence of new brands specializing in artisanal cocktail ingredients, catering to the growing demand for premium and innovative products. The focus shifted towards creating bar-quality drinks at home, driving the purchase of both essential tools and high-quality ingredients.