New year, new drinks menu

As we hurtle towards another festive season, the prospect of creating something different and special for our New Year drinks list looms large.

Drink trends are evolving to reflect changing tastes, culture and health preferences. Across not only pubs and bars, but also at home, this year is being shaped by innovation, moderation and aesthetics in equal measure.

One of the most striking shifts in the post-Covid era is the rise of mindful drinking. Around three-quarters of Brits are now moderating their intake, with many favouring mid-strength or no alcohol options or opting for a ‘quality over quantity’ approach to drinking. This means that guests are looking for drinks that look and feel festive, but don’t necessarily come with the traditional big hangover.

“Elderflower, lavender and rosemary, as well as more unusual flavours, such as meadowsweet or verbena, are making their way into cocktails”

Visual flair and an elevated presentation are also major themes. As an industry, we are noting the demand for show-stopping serves, such as shimmering finishes, botanical garnishes, layered colours and unusual glassware. All are worthy of gaining that sought-after viral moment, both as a customer and a business. This helps make your drinks programme become more than just a toast, it becomes an experience – one that you want the world to know you’ve had.

The overwhelming trend when it comes to cocktails is clever and thoughtful garnishing. Think botanical and floral infusions – elderflower, lavender and rosemary, as well as more unusual flavours, such as meadowsweet or verbena – are making their way into cocktails, giving them a fresher, lighter feel as well as providing Insta-worthy images. No longer just a veritable dehydrated fruit salad of garnish, these flavours are part of overall cocktail design rather than an afterthought, enhancing flavour, sustainability and experience – especially for those consuming low-alcohol alternatives who seek a more adult option.

As well as cocktails, anything with bubbles remains at the heart and soul of the New Year. In the UK, our fizz scene is shifting and we’re here for it! Up-and-coming alternatives such as pétillant naturel, lovingly referred to as pét-nat, as well as high-quality English sparkling wines, are gaining ground fast. Their appeal lies in their freshness, authenticity and locality, with pét-nat bringing a less formal vibe. For the drinkers, it’s about finding something stylish, singular and often better value than traditional Champagne.

So, to us, this New Year’s Eve will be less about just getting drunk and more about celebrating with purpose, with fewer regrets and better aesthetics. Whether it’s a low-abv botanical cocktail, an English pét-nat, or a drink that doubles as decor, the trends point to drinks that fit a new kind of party mindset in the UK: mindful, stylish and fun. If you’re planning an event, it could be worth investing in one standout drink that leaves your guests talking well into 2026 and beyond.

Nicola Tickle is co-owner of Heft in Newton in Cartmel, Cumbria

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Photo: Jenny Jones Photography