Artisan Essentials 2025

@specialityfood 36 in the low and no category for beer and spirit alternatives. “We’re also noticing that many ‘mindful drinking’ bar-goers are opting for quality soft drinks, ones that still offer complex flavour profiles and an experience that doesn’t make them feel like they’re missing out.” George expects low and no menus to grow in size in the year ahead as new tonics andmixers come to market. Low or no-alcohol spirits are gaining traction, adds WSET spirits educator Charlie McCarthy. “While many gin brands have produced zero alcohol versions, brands such as Everleaf and Three Spirit are having considerable success in creating original flavour and texture profiles, freed from the imperative to imitate existing spirit profiles.” 7 Sustainable wine Much like spirits, the premiumisation trend is expected to continue in the wine category, with antioxidants and electrolytes, and better-for-you competitors to sugary and artificially coloured sports drinks.” “In 2025 hydration will spin into sharper focus as consumers join the dots between their everyday liquid intake and overall wellness,” says Mandy Saven of Stylus. “Here, emphasis will be on the hard-hitting health benefits of invisible minerals and salts. Equally, consumers will be propelled to adopt a preventative approach to hydration. They won’t wait until they feel thirsty but will act in a more organic and consistent way. Easy access to essential electrolytes is a game-changer for consumers wanting to safeguard their holistic wellbeing.” 6 Low and no drinks “There’s a real trend in consumers wanting to drink less but better, as well as those cutting out drinking altogether,” says George. “The industry has responded in a strong way and, as a result, we’re seeing incredible innovation AN INCREASING AWARENESS OF SUSTAINABLE PRACTICESWILL BE REFLECTED IN THEWINE CATEGORY