If you have perused any of my other works you would know that I am not tremendously well-versed in the various alcoholic beverages currently available. However, I have once again thrust myself into the world of cocktails and concoctions to bring you the very best trends and themes that dominated the spirit sector in 2020 and 2021 with the goal of providing both the consumer and the owner with new ideas and guaranteed party starters ensured to kick off the Summer feeling this year. So, this time I find myself reviewing and discussing the mother’s ruin itself, Gin.
In 2021, we saw yet more explosive growth in the gin industry, such sustained growth since its popularity began in the long hot summer of 2017 comes as a surprise but must be capitalised on. This is even more incredible when you consider the fact that nation alcohol consumption was down by 20% in the UK1. From this knowledge it can be concluded that the gin industry has been experiencing a renaissance period in recent years with many believing his resurgence will continue through 2022.
Citrus Variety
The notion of utilising various fruits in cocktails I’m sure you’re aware is not a foreign concept to many with one of the oldest and most renowned gin cocktail brands in the world (Pimm’s) containing fruits since the 1840s. The difference here is that the main reason as to why fruit gin cocktails have seen a rise in 2021 was due to the vibrant nature of the fruits and the various options that can be utilised when concocting a gin2. As we enter Spring and soon to be summer the fruit gin cocktail trend is sure to see another rise in popularity again as we return to our normal lives. Another factor for this resurgence in popularity stems from the expanded reach of distilleries across the world which has had a knock-on effect on the citrus fruits being employed. Some of the most popular recent choices have been Kumquat and Yuzu demonstrating the adventurous nature and experimentation that has led to the growth in the gin industry2. Here at Alliance Online we understand the importance of glassware during drink presentation which is why we stock some of the finest gin glasses on the market currently. We would highly recommend the Utopia Botanist Gin Cocktail glass range to perfectly compliment the vibrant and fresh nature the gin sector is currently experiencing.
The Lockdown Favourite
In 2020 and 2021, gin experienced a boom period altogether in the UK in a time when less people were able to drink alcohol. In fact a demonstration of this boom period can be seen through the record number of distilleries that were registered in 2021 (during lockdown)3. It has been reported that the gin industry is anticipated to undergo a compound annual growth rate of 14.08% from 2021 to 20254, again cementing the notion that the gin industry is on the rise. One of the reasons for this growth can be narrowed down to the change in consumer preferences with more people wanting to opt for premium choices of alcohol combined with the shift in consumer behaviour leading to a sustained move away from substitute beverages to more spirits like gin. Along with these points another reason as to why the sector has seen colossal growth is the increasing demand for new product ranges and innovative combinations the industry has to keep up with4. To truly take your glassware to the next level we at Alliance Online would recommend the Utopia Moda Gin Glass range. This series would be the perfect accompaniment to almost any gin cocktail due to the sleek design and effortless class suits any theme and setting.
Retro Cocktails
As is the case with almost any sector, nostalgia is firmly ingrained in the minds of gin lovers the world over. This was apparent in 2021 when one of the most popular trends was vintage gin cocktails. With many reminiscing about the good old times or others infatuated with the concept, it is no surprise the retro trend is expected to carry on through 2022. The reason for this growth is due to the increased usage of gin in fine-dining restaurants and a rise in-demand for premium and vintage style cocktails among consumers. As mentioned earlier the vastness of effective distilleries globally has surged which has led to a wider variety of possibilities for gin cocktails. Due to the rise of distilleries across the world it means new ideas and exotic flavours have played a role in facilitating the growth of the classic vintage gin cocktail4. Here at Alliance Online we believe there is no better complement to a vintage gin cocktail than the refined Utopia Ambassador Cocktail glass range. The elegant and sophisticated design perfectly matches the classic nature of a retro style gin cocktail.
Colourful Cocktails
Due to the lockdown, there has been a rise in colourful cocktails that are concocted as a means to coping with the stress and anxiety of the pandemic. The concept of the colourful cocktail is to provide a vibrant colour scheme for drinks during the lockdown period. A distraction from the sad reality many faced through the form of an elegant and exotic cocktail. For the Summer season there are a wide variety of gin cocktails that perfectly suit the atmosphere and climate for the inevitable parties and BBQ’s. As colourful cocktails have been trendy in recent years there is an important factor for choosing a colourful option with many gin cocktails opting for exotic fruit flavours and concoctions5. The main reason for pubs and restaurants across the UK providing distinctive lively and sprightly gin beverages is down to the recent necessity for escapism and longing for a semblance of normality5. Here at Alliance Online we would strongly urge any reader planning on joining in on the gin trend to pair your vivacious cocktails with the Artis Speakeasy cocktail glass range as the polished and distinguished look of the Speakeasy range by Artis would perfectly supplement any colourful cocktails to create a stunning look ideal for the summer months.
Eccentric Gins
In 2021, one of the most popular trends in the gin industry was pushing the boundaries of what makes a gin. There were so many experimental cocktails with gin lovers eternally searching for the perfect concoction to quell their desires. The passion for eccentric gins originated with the belief that many distilleries around the UK are enticed about the notion of adding new flavours and ideas to their establishments. Eccentricity has played a fundamental part in gin making for generations and the recent growth in this trend demonstrates that unconventional ingredients will continue to attract the consumer in 2022. One of the most popular gin drinks in 2021 was the Aviation Cocktail. This classic is loved by both classic gin lovers and new consumers venturing into the world of Spirits. You are probably wondering why I am mentioning this, the reason is down to the ingredients used. Crème de Violette is the main ingredient in the Aviation cocktail and uses an exotic floral liqueur that can be hard to find6. This example of an eccentric gin cocktail provides us with proof that eccentric gin concoctions are expected to continue to trend in 20226. Here at Alliance Online we fully understand the importance of the right glassware to suit the drink, for more eccentric choices of gin cocktails we would recommend polycarbonate gin glasses.
At Alliance Online we understand the importance and criticality of respecting the Coronavirus guidelines that are imposed and would implore readers to drink responsibly. To experience drinking and concocting Gin cocktails to the fullest we recommend browsing the Alliance Online website for the glassware suggestions made in the article.
References
1. https://trulyexperiences.com/blog/gin-industry-statistics/
2. https://gin-mag.com/2022/01/03/five-gin-trends-to-watch-in-2022/
3. https://spiritsbeacon.com/features/insight/why-gin-lovers-should-be-hopeful-in-2022
4. https://www.ibisworld.com/
5. https://www.imarcgroup.com/gin-market
6. The Aviation: a classic gin cocktail that will take you to new heights! — Craft Gin Club | The UK’s No.1 gin club
