In 2024, we’ve seen two obvious trends, one of nostalgia for drinks from simpler times, among those being fun and fruity faux-Martini recipes from the late nineties and early aughts. The other standout trend is for minimal low-proof cocktails. The minimalism trend brings back the popularity of three-ingredient cocktails. Within this trend is long drinks, which are mixed with soda water or other low- or no-alcohol mixers to increase the volume of the drink and extend the drinking experience.
Long drinks not only reflect a global shift towards moderation by offering lower alcohol options, but they also provide a fun and easy way to experiment with low-proof liqueurs. From vermouths, to gentian liqueurs, red, bitter aperitifs, and a growing range of low-alcohol elements, they dominate the cocktail scene. The future is promising for those seeking to indulge in longer, refreshing sips. Discover the most sought-after cocktails of 2024 below.
10. Gin Rickey
The Gin Rickey, once at the top of our 2023 chart, is still making waves this year. In the continued trend of healthier libations, this original sugar-free cocktail stands out. While it may have been somewhat overlooked during the cocktail renaissance of the early aughts, the Gin Rickey carries the essence of pre-Prohibition era drinks. Its crispness and tanginess create a refreshing and perfectly balanced experience that delights the palate. Crafted with gin, lime juice, and soda water, the Gin Rickey allows the botanical flavors to take center stage. This lack of sugar has made it a popular choice for those seeking a healthier beverage option. Cheers to the Gin Rickey!
9. Porn Star Martini
The Porn Star Martini, born in London back in 2002, has gradually gained popularity across the Atlantic. Departing from the traditional Martini, it has evolved into a beloved contemporary classic over the years. Combining passion fruit liqueur, passion fruit purée, vanilla vodka, and lime juice, this cocktail bursts with fruity flavors and a refreshing tanginess, plus a chaser of Champagne on the side. Despite its controversial name, the Porn Star Martini truly lives up to its reputation as a delightfully indulgent, seductive, and playful drink.
8. French Martini
The French Martini, a delightful concoction, came to life during the vibrant 1980s at a renowned New York City bar owned by Keith McNally. Later, it made its grand debut on the menu of the iconic Balthazar restaurant nestled in the stylish Soho district in 1996. This captivating libation, although named a Martini, stands as a unique creation. With its alluring rosy hue, it gracefully combines vodka, raspberry liqueur, and pineapple juice, resulting in a visually stunning and utterly delectable drink.
7. Last Word
The Last Word cocktail is a unique creation that brings together the distinct flavors of London Dry gin, herbaceous Chartreuse, bitter maraschino liqueur, and tangy lime juice. It may appear unconventional at first, but it serves as a versatile base for countless delightful variations (such as the Paper Plane, Naked and Famous, among others). With its perfectly balanced equal parts, each ingredient works in perfect harmony, resulting in an unforgettable pale green libation. This cocktail delights the senses with its subtle sweetness, mild sourness, and intricate complexity of flavors.
6. Manhattan Blanco
Lily Basinet, the visionary behind Shaken, has masterfully created the Manhattan Blanco, a drink inspired by the timeless Manhattan cocktail renowned for its luxurious and intricate flavors. Tailored for the colder months, this delightful beverage showcases a lighter twist using blanco tequila. The Manhattan Blanco harmoniously blends tequila, mezcal, Cointreau, and Dolin blanc vermouth in equal proportions, resulting in a potent elixir that caresses your taste buds with a velvety smoothness reminiscent of the original Manhattan. Each sip leaves behind a delightful sensation that is simply unparalleled.
5. Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule originated in Manhattan during the 1940s and experienced a resurgence in the early 2000s. It is easily distinguished by its traditional copper mug. Similar to the Dark ‘n’ Stormy (No.3), the Moscow Mule retains the refreshing combination of ginger beer and lime juice, but swaps vodka for rum as its spirit of choice.
4. Hugo Spritz
The Hugo Spritz has gained popularity in recent years as a preferred spritz among many enthusiasts, creeping up from number 5 on last year’s chart. It follows a similar recipe to the classic spritz but replaces the traditional Italian bitter liqueur with the delightful French elderflower liqueur, St-Germain. The essential spritz effervescence remains intact by combining sparkling wine and soda water. The addition of muddled mint enhances the herbal flavors derived from the elderflower essence. This spritz delivers a refreshing and light taste that is herbaceous, offering a delightful alternative to the ever-present Aperol Spritz.
3. Dark and Stormy
The Dark and Stormy, a trademarked creation by Gosling Brothers since ’91, is a delightfully simple cocktail consisting of just three ingredients. In contrast to the Moscow Mule (No 5.), which features vodka, this enticing beverage combines dark rum, lime juice, and ginger beer. With its sweet and citrusy flavor, it’s a must-try. If you’re seeking a softer experience, we suggest swapping out a portion of the ginger beer for some refreshing club soda.
2. Paper Plane
The Paper Plane, an exquisite cocktail invented by Sam Ross of New York’s famed Milk & Honey in 2007, has been steadily climbing the ranks. After making its debut at number 9 last year, this modern classic has earned its rightful fame. Combining the perfect balance of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice, the Paper Plane is a delightful twist on the renowned Last Word (No. 8) cocktail.
1. Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz, the classic Italian aperitivo, originated in Venice back in 1920. This beloved cocktail has maintained its popularity over the years and recently soared to the top of our list (from No.7 in 2023), surpassing all others. Widely recognized as one of the most iconic spritzes, it combines Aperol, Italian sparkling wine, and sparkling water. If you haven’t tried it yet, you must experience the vibrant and orange Aperol Spritz, a beloved drink enjoyed in wine goblets around the world.
FAQ
What is the drink of the year in 2024?
The Gin & Tonic is the top bar call for 2024, according to the Bacardi Global Consumer Survey.