Experimental and innovative. These two terms describe almost everything consumers want. So why not in the drink of your choice? From fruity, sweet and spicy concoctions to AI-driven recommendations, from premium offerings to sustainable flavours, liquor enthusiasts are exploring cocktails in new and meaningful ways, as per leading bar owners, bartenders and beverage experts across the country.
“Cocktails have become a universal language, a way to connect people through flavours and experiences. In India, the growing popularity of cocktails reflects the evolving palate of drinkers who are curious and eager to experiment,” said noted bar and beverage expert Giancarlo Mancino, who recently launched the new ‘signature skyline cocktail menu’ at Cirrus 9, a rooftop bar at The Oberoi, New Delhi.
In fact, the cocktail culture is booming in India. As per the sixth annual Bacardi Cocktail Trends Report released recently, over half (55%) favour cocktails over champagne (41%) to celebrate special occasions, while 45% are looking forward to exploring new bars and restaurants.
The rise of cocktails is also evident in the increasing preference for them over beer, with 32% of respondents drinking more cocktails, the report added.
As per Jonas Ax, advocacy lead, Bacardi, India, consumers are now embracing bold, vibrant flavours, with fruity (66%), sweet (53%), and spicy (50%) cocktails leading the way for the next 12 months, as per the cocktail trends report. “It’s the perfect time to recommend cocktails like the Patron Picante, especially as tequila continues to steal the spotlight,” he said.
Siya Negi, head of the bar programme at The Leela Palace, New Delhi, agreed. “Picante has emerged as a perfect representation of India’s rich heritage of spices. Known for its bold, yet balanced spicy kick, this cocktail resonates deeply with the Indian palate,” she said.
Atipriya Sarawat, co-founder of cocktail bar Asper in Gurugram, added: “Savoury and spicy cocktails that are spirit-forward are hugely in demand, such as Picante. The popularity of tequila, whether straight or as a cocktail base, will continue to grow. Cocktails with sparkling wine or champagne are gaining momentum as well,” she said.
Mumbai’s Slink & Bardot restaurant, too, is using tequila as a cocktail base to usher in the festive season. From the cozy Mexican Eggnog, a luscious blend of Patrón Silver tequila, house horchata, and eggnog mix, to the classic Cielo Old Fashioned that elevates Patrón El Cielo tequila with agave and slinky bitters, there’s something to suit every palate.
Looking ahead to 2025, we will also see cocktails infused with fermented ingredients, said Govind Dossad, head bartender at The Mission Bay, a San Francisco-themed restaurant in New Delhi. “They have the potential to add a bold yet natural complexity to drinks. Additionally, hyper-local ingredients and zero-waste mixology are becoming the new cornerstones of innovation, reflecting a deeper connection to sustainability and unique flavours,” he added.
Mindful drinking will be a key trend in 2025, said Sarthak Batra, mixologist at Ikigai by Cafe Delhi Heights in Defence Colony, New Delhi. “The growing focus on inclusivity and wellness will drive demand for multi-sensory cocktails, low-ABV options, and mocktails,” he explained.
Among other projections for the new year, Batra said innovative garnishes such as edible flowers, dehydrated fruit, dust, and flavoured ice cubes will elevate presentation to create visually stunning cocktails. “Timeless masterpieces reimagined with fresh, seasonal twists and culinary-inspired ingredients like pineapple foam, honey foam, homemade cordial, and spices will further add depth and complexity to cocktails,” he added.
The current trend is all about bold yet balanced flavours and nature-inspired cocktails. “Guests are drawn to cold-pressed ingredients, homemade syrups, and garnishes that elevate the drink while keeping it refreshing and clean. Gin- and rum-based cocktails infused with botanicals, fruits, and herbs will dominate the scene,” said Viju Raj, mixologist at Blaq & Wyte, Delhi.
As we close 2024, agave spirits will continue to dominate the spotlight this new year, said Rakshay Dhariwal, founder and MD of Maya Pistola Agavepura, and Pass Code Hospitality, a boutique hospitality firm. “At our cocktail bar PCO Delhi, two of our signature cocktails, Eve’s Choice and Bad Reputation from our new menu, The Forbidden, have become crowd favourites – and it’s no surprise that both are agave-based,” he added.
According to Vikram Achanta, co-founder of 30BestBarsIndia, a bar ranking platform, and CEO and founder of Tulleeho, a beverage education, training, and consulting company, Irish coffee is making a big comeback as the perfect winter warmer, especially during the festive season. “It combines the rich, warming notes of Irish whiskey with the bold flavours of coffee—a pairing that resonates with India’s growing love for specialty coffee and craft spirits, especially with homegrown coffee liqueurs on the rise,” he said.
It’s the perfect time to celebrate with fun and festive cocktails and to add excitement to the occasion, said Gurjas Sahni, founder and MD of Loca: The Social House in GK-I, Delhi. “We are going with the traditional cocktail with a touch of new world flavours. From EggNog to Santa Sparkle, we have a variety of hot/cold drinks and bubbles in our menu,” he added.
‘The 18th Hole’, which is inspired by the tranquil greens of the Delhi Golf Course and is a refreshing take on the classic Negroni, should be on everyone’s list this new year, said Mancino of The Oberoi, talking about his personal favourite. “Crafted with strawberries infused in Bacardi Ocho using sous vide technique, blended with rich chocolate essence and Campari, it offers a contemporary twist,” he added.
Meanwhile, the rise of technology is reshaping the way consumers explore cocktails, with nine in ten (92%) Indians showing interest in AI-driven recommendations for personalised drink options tailored to their taste preferences, previous choices, and the mood or occasion, as per the Bacardi Cocktail Trends Report. However, three-quarters express concerns that AI might lack the emotional and artistic flair that human bartenders bring to their craft. Despite technological advancements, the human touch remains vital, with 44% of Indian respondents still relying on bartender recommendations to discover new cocktails, as per the report.
In the coming year, the cocktail scene is also poised for a shift that emphasises not only flavour but also sustainability and storytelling. “Guests are increasingly drawn to drinks crafted with locally sourced ingredients, zero-waste techniques, and a deep connection to cultural heritage. Classic cocktails, especially bold, spirit-forward ones, are making a comeback—reinvented with modern twists and innovative pairings that surprise and delight. The focus will be on creating memorable experiences that resonate with both taste and purpose, celebrating the artistry and sustainability behind each drink,” said Peeyush Sinha, director of food & beverage, JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort and Spa.
