In this new beverage-focused column, we’ll explore how pizzeria operators can make the most of their beverage programs. This month, we take a look at some of the beverage trends predicted for 2015, as seen by top industry tastemakers. Note the themes throughout to make sure your beverages are hitting the mark—fresh, local, healthy and specialty products remain hot concepts in every beverage category.
2015 Trends: Alcoholic Beverages
- Micro-distilled/artisan spirits
- Locally produced beer/wine/spirits
- “New make” whiskey
- Food-beer pairings
- House-brewed beer
2015 Trends: Cocktails and Cocktail Ingredients
- Onsite barrel-aged drinks
- Regional signature cocktails
- Culinary cocktails
- Food-liquor/cocktail pairings
- Edible cocktails
Best in Brews
The Brewers Association surveyed brewers nationwide to pinpoint the top beer trends for 2015. Some predictions from the experts:
- Single-hop beers
- Limited-release beers
- Red and brown ales
- Session beers
- Flavor-infused beers
- Low-alcohol fruity beers
- Hybrid styles
Tops for Teetotalers
Findings from the predominantly nonalcoholic beverage manufacturers that participated in Beverage Industry’s annual New Product Development Outlook survey:
Consumer needs reflected the following top 10 buzzwords for beverages: high-protein, natural, healthy, convenience, energy-boosting, probiotic/prebiotic, low-calorie, organic, low-sugar and vitamin/mineral fortified.
In 2014, the top five beverage flavors were orange, vanilla, lemon, strawberry and peach. For 2015, chocolate is listed as the No. 1 anticipated top-selling flavor, followed by coffee and vanilla.
Dairy-based and dairy-alternative drinks will be the top category of focus for 2015, followed by sports and energy drinks, then coffee and tea.
70% of respondents will incorporate natural flavors into their new products.
