In decades past, alcoholic beverages and the people who drank them all had very distinct reputations. But with the increasing popularity of vineyard wine tastings, brew pubs serving craft beers, and distilleries offering flights of whisky for sampling, those old stereotypes are a thing of the past. Trends in alcohol — from how they’re made to how they’re served--are constantly changing. Whether you’re planning a corporate event or just a team building get-together, look for ways to incorporate these trends into your gathering:
The Spicy Cocktail. Chili peppers, hints of hot sauce, or even exotic spices are just a few of the ingredients bartenders are using to add a little heat to their concoctions.
Natural Wines. The popularity of organic, environmentally friendly and locally sourced foods is now extending to wines as well. “Natural” wines are generally made from grapes certified organic and are fermented with indigenous yeasts, giving them more nuanced flavors than wines that are manipulated in various ways during the winemaking process.
Beer Varieties. Craft beer makers are hopping (pun intended) on the gluten-free bandwagon. What’s more, they’re exploring the hard soda market, introducing “hard” sweet beers and root beers.
Wine Trucks. The perfect complement to the food truck? The wine truck, of course. We can’t think of a more ideal combination.
Food/Beer Pairings. More and more what’s on tap at brew pubs is a menu offering food in addition to brews. Choices are usually great beer complements, such as pizza, wings, or sliders.
