Summer’s hot. And so are the beverage trends that go with it. To keep things cool, customers are turning to light, refreshing, and fruity treats. Let’s explore ways to heat up their interest while refreshing their taste buds.
Light & Refreshing
Beverages with lower alcohol volume or lighter flavor profiles work well for summer because they’re easy to drink and mix well with other ingredients.
Rosés, sparkling wines, and white wine varietals like Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio are classic choices for summer. Unaged agave spirits, vodka, gin, and light rum are also popular thanks to their light flavors and endless versatility.
These favorites are great for putting fresh twists on classic cocktails. Ranch water, which includes a base of tequila, sparkling water, and lime juice, can be spruced up with additions like flavored bitters, coconut water, and more. Spritzes are made with prosecco, an aperitivo, and topped off with a splash of sparkling water. Herbal or vegetal elements like mint, basil, or cucumber are great additions to amp up the freshness factor.
Fruity Summer Sweetness
Summer is the season of vibrant fruits and bold flavors, making it the perfect time to add a taste of sunshine to your shelves and menus.
Lighter-bodied red wines with moderate tannins like Beaujolais and Pinot Noir bring out the best in summer sipping. A range of white wines from Riesling to Moscato provide wonderful options for embracing sweetness. Spirits and liqueurs flavored with essences like pineapple, passion fruit, or guava bring the tropics to any location.
Classic cocktails like sangrias, palomas, and margaritas can be elevated with a variety of fruit-flavored spirits, juices, and purees. Experiment with an assortment of bitters and herbs to balance the sweetness.
And don’t forget about frozen treats—a classic summer staple. Round out your selections with frosés, frozen margaritas, daiquiris, or frozen alcoholic pops.
Spirited Caffeination
No matter the season, coffee and tea are beloved pleasures. Both are becoming iced summer favorites, especially when using liqueurs and gourmet roasts. The classic Carajillo cocktail from Mexico, caramel macchiato martinis, iced Irish coffees, and hard iced teas are just a few ways to perk up your offerings.
A World of Options
Summer is a time for gatherings, so make sure you don’t leave anyone out—especially when it comes to drink offerings.
With so many summer options, customers will want to try them all. RTDs and small-format bottles are a great way to try new flavors. Premium spirits, diverse-owned brands, and wines from different growing regions are also great ways for customers to go beyond the expected.
This summer, allow your customers to push the boundaries of flavor by heating up your beverage offerings. Check out our selection of wine and spirits to find summer favorites that’ll keep them coming back.
