Impress your guests with these five craft cocktail trends that will take your at-home happy hour to the next level. Learn about unique ingredients, techniques, and presentation ideas that are sure to wow your friends and family.
There’s no denying that happy hour is the best hour of the day. Whether you’re winding down after a long day of work or catching up with friends on the weekend, a good cocktail can make all the difference. But why settle for a boring old gin and tonic when you can impress your guests with some of the latest craft cocktail trends?
From unique ingredients to innovative presentation ideas, these five craft cocktail trends are sure to spice up your next at-home happy hour. So, let’s dive in!
Trend 1: Creative Infusions
One of the hottest trends in craft cocktails right now is creative infusions. Infusing your favorite spirits with unique ingredients is an excellent way to add depth and complexity to your cocktails. Plus, it’s a fun way to experiment with different flavors and get creative in the kitchen.
Some of the most popular infusions include:
- Fruit-infused vodka
- Jalapeno-infused tequila
- Lavender-infused gin
- Cucumber-infused rum
The possibilities are endless, and you can use just about any ingredient you like. To infuse your spirits, simply add your chosen ingredient to a jar or bottle of your favorite spirit and let it sit for a few days. The longer you infuse, the stronger the flavor will be. Once you’re happy with the taste, strain the infused spirit and use it in your favorite cocktail recipes.
Trend 2: Smoke and Fire
If you’re looking to add some drama to your cocktail game, consider incorporating smoke and fire into your drinks. Smoked cocktails are becoming increasingly popular, and for a good reason. The smoky flavor adds depth and complexity to your drink, and the presentation is sure to impress your guests.
To create a smoked cocktail, you’ll need a smoking gun or a smoking box. Simply fill the box with wood chips, light them on fire, and place your glass over the top. Let the smoke infuse into the glass for a few seconds before pouring in your cocktail.
If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can also experiment with adding chili peppers or other spicy ingredients to your cocktail. Just be sure to warn your guests before they take a sip!
Trend 3: Low ABV Cocktails
Low alcohol by volume (ABV) cocktails are another hot trend in the craft cocktail world. With more people looking to reduce their alcohol consumption, bartenders are getting creative with lower-proof cocktails that are just as delicious as their high-octane counterparts.
Some popular low ABV cocktails include:
- Spritzers
- Shandies
- Vermouth-based cocktails
- Light beer cocktails
These drinks are perfect for sipping on a hot summer day or for those times when you want to enjoy a few cocktails without going overboard.
Trend 4: Sustainable Cocktails
As more people become aware of the impact of their consumption habits on the environment, sustainable cocktails are becoming increasingly popular. Bartenders are using locally sourced, organic ingredients and reducing waste by using every part of the ingredient, from the peel to the pulp.
Some sustainable cocktail ideas include:
- Using eggshells as cocktail glasses
- Creating garnishes from vegetable scraps
- Using leftover fruit pulp to make syrups and infusions
Not only are these cocktails environmentally friendly, but they also taste delicious and are a great conversation starter.
Trend 5: Creative Presentation
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of creative presentation when it comes to craft cocktails. A well-presented cocktail is not only visually appealing but can also enhance the overall drinking experience. From garnishes to glassware, there are countless ways to get creative with your cocktail presentation.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Use unique glassware, such as vintage coupes or tiki mugs.
- Experiment with different types of ice, such as large ice cubes or crushed ice.
- Add fun and festive garnishes, such as fruit skewers or edible flowers.
- Create a signature cocktail that matches the theme of your party or event.
With a little creativity, you can take your cocktail presentation to the next level and impress your guests.
FAQs
- What’s the best way to infuse spirits?
The best way to infuse spirits is to add your chosen ingredient to a jar or bottle of your favorite spirit and let it sit for a few days. The longer you infuse, the stronger the flavor will be. Once you’re happy with the taste, strain the infused spirit and use it in your favorite cocktail recipes.
- Can I make low ABV cocktails without sacrificing flavor?
Yes! Bartenders are getting creative with lower-proof cocktails that are just as delicious as their high-octane counterparts. Some popular low ABV cocktails include spritzers, shandies, vermouth-based cocktails, and light beer cocktails.
- How can I make my cocktails more environmentally friendly?
You can make your cocktails more environmentally friendly by using locally sourced, organic ingredients and reducing waste by using every part of the ingredient, from the peel to the pulp. Some sustainable cocktail ideas include using eggshells as cocktail glasses, creating garnishes from vegetable scraps, and using leftover fruit pulp to make syrups and infusions.
Conclusion
Craft cocktails are a great way to elevate your at-home happy hour and impress your guests. By incorporating these five trends – creative infusions, smoke and fire, low ABV cocktails, sustainable cocktails, and creative presentation – you can take your cocktail game to the next level.
Experiment with different ingredients and techniques to find the perfect cocktail for your taste and preferences. Remember to have fun and don’t be afraid to get creative with your drinks. Cheers to your next at-home happy hour!
