2024 was a terrific 12 months for cocktails, and now, because of new knowledge from analysis agency CGA by NIQ, we lastly know which of them reigned supreme at bars and eating places this 12 months.
The Cocktail Gross sales Tracker, which makes use of knowledge from CGA — an on-premise analysis consultancy that analyzes meals and beverage companies — gives quarterly insights into drinks developments throughout the U.S. primarily based on actual gross sales figures. This new launch, printed Wednesday, showcases 5 of probably the most worthwhile cocktails for bars and eating places in 2024. Whereas a few of the outcomes have been predictable — just like the ever-popular Spritz and Espresso Martini — others confirmed stunning progress. So which cocktails stole the present in 2024? Right here’s what we realized from CGA’s newest knowledge.
Unsurprisingly, the almighty Margarita remained the preferred cocktail within the U.S. on-premise. Third-quarter gross sales of the tequila-based tipple outperformed the identical interval from 2023 by 25 p.c, exhibiting the cocktail continues to be rising with nice velocity. In response to the info, the beloved Marg is probably the most worthwhile cocktail at each outlet sort apart from advantageous eating.
Nonetheless, in an attention-grabbing flip of occasions, the Mojito truly had an exceptional run in 2024, with a staggering 37 p.c progress within the third quarter year-over-year, making it the second most useful cocktail on the common U.S. outlet after the Margarita.
The Spritz and the Espresso Martini each had landmark years with spectacular progress. The Espresso Martini particularly noticed a 116 p.c bump year-over-year for the third quarter. The information additionally notes that common costs and examine values have been broadly flat right now, indicating that gross sales quantity is the driving drive behind the espresso cocktail’s progress. The Spritz, whereas additionally a well-liked alternative, noticed extra seasonal fluctuations, rating because the second most useful cocktail within the second quarter of 2024 however tenth within the third.
One other noteworthy cocktail this 12 months was the Negroni. The CGA knowledge suggests the gin-based cocktail is without doubt one of the most profitable within the U.S., rating excessive in examine worth, with the typical value up $1 year-over-year to hit $16. And it looks as if the Negroni is just getting classier, with its reputation at polished informal venues experiencing a 79 p.c uptick, whereas its presence at neighborhood bars dropped by 49 p.c.
The Margarita, Espresso Martini, Spritz, Negroni, and Mojito undoubtedly outlined consuming tradition in 2024 — although we will’t assist however surprise the place the traditional Martini falls in all this. Solely time will inform which drinks get to maintain the highlight for an additional 12 months.
This story is part of VP Professional, our free content material platform and e-newsletter for the drinks business, overlaying wine, beer, and liquor — and past. Join VP Professional now!
