Cocktail trends are a marker of the times we live in and a fascinating phenomenon for mixologists serving on the front line as well as customers at the front of the bar line! So, whether you’re looking for cocktail menu ideas for your bar or restaurant or perhaps you’re looking for ideas for your own weekend tipple, we’ve got you covered in our yearly round-up of the most popular and upward-trending cocktails.
This year our cocktail shakers are going to be filled with bold new taste combos, fresh takes on the classic martini, high-tech and mastery-level mixology, and a return to the roots of the DIY cocktail-making experience.
We’ve spoken to the EHL mixologists and scoured the internet to gather this list of eight trending cocktail styles that will be filling our cups in 2025. Here are the drinks you’ll be raising up to toast with this year, along with some tips and tricks to try if you want to make them yourself.
The Savory & Spicy Cocktail Trend: Bold Flavors on the Rise
As seen in 2024, cocktails are moving beyond the traditional sweet and sour spectrum, with savory and spicy drinks gaining popularity among adventurous drinkers. These cocktails offer complex, layered flavors that appeal to those looking for something unique.
- Savory Cocktails: Inspired by umami-rich ingredients, these drinks incorporate miso, seaweed, mushrooms, and even anchovy essence to create unexpected depth. Classic examples include the Bloody Mary and the Dirty Martini, but modern mixologists are pushing the boundaries with innovative twists. Imagine a gin martini infused with a subtle briny touch from anchovy or an earthy umami boost from shiitake mushrooms.
- Spicy Cocktails: Heat is rising in trending cocktails, with spicy cocktails becoming a staple in high-end bars and social clubs. The Picante—a spicy tequila-based drink—has become an icon, while classics like the Jalapeño Margarita and Ginger Basil Smash continue to thrive. From chili-infused syrups to wasabi-laced spirits, there are endless ways to add a fiery kick.
Tips & Recipes for Savory and Spicy Cocktails
- Balance is Key: When crafting a savory cocktail, pair umami flavors with bright citrus, like lime juice, or herbal notes to maintain drinkability. Try a Miso-Infused Old Fashioned by blending miso-washed whiskey with a touch of honey and bitters.
- Spice it Up Thoughtfully: Heat should enhance, not overpower. Experiment with jalapeños, habaneros, or Sichuan peppercorns, adjusting the level of spice to suit different palates. A Cucumber Wasabi Martini—mixing gin, cucumber juice, and a hint of wasabi—delivers both heat and freshness.
- Classic Twists: Upgrade traditional favorites by adding a savory or spicy twist. Swap the Worcestershire sauce in a Bloody Mary for soy sauce or try a Spicy Margarita with a smoked chili salt rim.
- Infuse Your Spirits: Create custom infusions by steeping tequila with chili peppers or vodka with sun-dried tomatoes for an extra punch of flavor.
With endless possibilities, the world of savory and spicy cocktails is perfect for those seeking a bold and unforgettable drinking experience.
2. Martinis Revisited: A Classic with a Modern Twist
The martini is making a strong comeback, with bartenders reinterpreting this iconic cocktail for today’s drinkers. While the classic gin or vodka martini remains timeless, new variations featuring infused spirits, mini martinis, and unexpected garnishes are taking center stage. This revival pays homage to the martini’s sophisticated past while introducing bold new flavors.
- The Espresso Martini Evolution: A staple for those looking for both elegance and energy, the espresso martini remains a top choice. However, fresh takes on this caffeinated favorite include high-quality local cold brew, hints of vanilla, and vodka alternatives like scotch for a richer, smokier profile.
- The Apple Martini Comeback: This 90s favorite is returning in a more refined, natural form. Instead of artificial flavors, expect fresh-pressed apple juice, tart green apple liqueurs, and a crisp, well-balanced finish that feels both nostalgic and classy.
Tips & Recipe Ideas for Modern Martinis
- Experiment with Bases: Try swapping vodka for scotch in an Espresso Martini, or use aged gin for a richer, more herbal take on the classic dry martini.
- Infusions & Garnishes: Upgrade your martini with infused spirits—think rosemary gin, truffle vodka, or black tea-infused vermouth. Garnish with pickled vegetables, citrus peels, or even edible flowers for a modern touch.
- Mini Martinis: Perfect for those who love variety, smaller martini servings allow you to sample different styles in one sitting. Try making a batch of these classics and serving them in shot glasses as a trio: Mini Dirty Martini, a Tiny Espresso Martini, or a Mini Apple Sour.
- Make it Umami: Add intrigue to a Dirty Martini by swapping traditional olive brine for pickled caper juice or miso-infused water, enhancing the depth and savoriness.
Minimalist Cocktails: Quality Over Quantity
In 2025, less is more when it comes to cocktails. The minimalist cocktail trend is a bit like the quiet luxury phenomenon of interior design, it emphasizes quality over quantity, bringing three-ingredient cocktails back into the spotlight. Inspired by sustainability, this cocktail trend aligns with the movement toward hyper-seasonal cocktails by focusing on a few high-quality ingredients while minimizing waste.
But minimalist cocktails aren’t just about sustainability—they also enhance the drinking experience. With fewer ingredients, each element has the chance to shine, allowing drinkers to truly appreciate the depth and balance of every sip.
