What Cocktails Can I Make? The Drinks to Try in 2026
Introduction: Discover the Top Cocktail Trends for 2026
As the new year approaches, cocktail enthusiasts are eager to discover the latest beverage trends. According to Bacardi’s 2026 Cocktail Trends Report, the global top 10 cocktails to watch out for include classics like the Margarita, Mojito, and Piña Colada, as well as rising favourites such as the Spritz and Vodka Soda.
Key Takeaways:
- The Margarita reigns supreme as America’s favourite cocktail, while the Mojito maintains enduring appeal among younger drinkers.
- The Piña Colada makes a comeback as a sweet treat, and the Spritz ranks 7th in U.S. popularity, with sales surpassing the Espresso Martini in some markets.
- Simple, classic cocktail recipes like the Margarita and Mojito remain in high demand.
Tequila and Agave Cocktails Boom
The Paloma (grapefruit soda, blanco tequila, lime) is quickly becoming more popular than the Margarita in Mexico and is rising in global popularity. Margarita twists, such as the Tommy’s with agave nectar and spicy jalapeño versions, are also trending. Other agave-based hits include mezcal Palomas, Tajin-rimmed tequila sours, and jalapeño-infused margaritas.
The Paloma offers a sweet-tart-bitter balance and is incredibly thirst-quenching, while the Margarita features a sweet-sour-salty profile and is more versatile. The agave category as a whole is surging, with tequila pipping vodka in popularity, including the rise of celebrity tequila brands for premium appeal and aesthetic bottles.
Classic and Nostalgic Highballs
Simple highballs like the Vodka Lemonade, Rum & Coke (Cuba Libre), Whisky and Coke, and Gin & Tonic are surging in popularity. These nostalgic, low-booze serves offer a lighter, more uncomplicated alternative to heavy mixed drinks, catering to the growing demand for quality ingredients and effervescent spritz-style cocktails.
Rum-Based Favourites
Rum-based classics like the Mojito (white rum, lime, sugar, mint, soda) and Piña Colada (pineapple, coconut, rum) are making a comeback, with drinkers opting for simple, back-to-basics recipes over more elaborate fruit-forward variations. The Classic Daiquiri (white rum, lime, sugar) and Rum & Coke also remain popular, with younger drinkers gravitating towards low-bitterness options.
Conclusion: Embrace the Classics and Explore New Trends
From the timeless Margarita and Mojito to the rising popularity of tequila and agave-based cocktails, 2026 promises an exciting array of drink building possibilities. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or a budding home bartender, the top trends offer something for every taste. Embrace the classics, experiment with new flavours, and get ready to shake, stir, and sip your way through the year ahead.
Sources:
Bacardi’s 2026 Cocktail Trends Report
Trending Cocktails 2026 – Alcohol Marketing Agency
Connections, Local Flavors, And Luxurious Experiences Top The 2026 Bacardi Cocktail Trends Report
Cocktail Trends Of 2026: Data And Sales – Tastewise
