Bourbon consumption is expected to continue to grow in 2023, driven by several factors, including:
Premiumization: Consumers are increasingly trading up to higher-quality spirits, and bourbon is no exception.
Millennials: Millennials are the largest drinking demographic in the United States, and they are more likely to drink bourbon than older generations.
Craft cocktails: Bourbon is a popular ingredient in craft cocktails, which are becoming increasingly popular among consumers.
Here are some specific trends to watch for in 2023:
Growth of ready-to-drink (RTD) bourbon cocktails: RTD bourbon cocktails are convenient and easy to drink, making them popular with consumers on the go.
Increased interest in aged bourbons: Consumers are becoming more interested in aged bourbons, which offer a more complex flavor profile.
Growing popularity of single cask bourbons: Single cask bourbons are unique and limited-edition, making them appealing to collectors and connoisseurs.
Overall, the outlook for bourbon consumption in 2023 is positive. With its premium image, diverse flavor profile, and versatility, bourbon is well-positioned to continue to grow in popularity.
How to capitalize on bourbon consumption trends in your restaurant
If you want to capitalize on bourbon consumption trends in your restaurant, here are a few tips:
Offer a variety of bourbons, including premium, aged, and single cask bourbons.
Educate your staff about bourbon so they can make recommendations to customers and help them choose the perfect bourbon for their taste.
Promote your bourbon offerings on your menus, social media, and website.
Create bourbon-themed cocktails and food pairings.
Host bourbon tastings and other events.
Here are my Top 5 Bourbons For Fall
Here's a ranking of the top 5 bourbons to increase bar sales in your restaurant, based on their popularity, taste, and value:
Blanton's is one of the most sought-after bourbons in the world, and for good reason. It's made with a blend of high-quality rye and corn whiskies, and it's aged for at least 6 years. Blanton's has a rich, complex flavor with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. It's perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks. The nose on this Bourbon is one of the best for new drinkers.
Angel's Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Angel's Envy is a unique bourbon finished in port wine barrels. This gives it a sweet, fruity flavor, unlike any other bourbon. Angel's Envy is perfect for sipping neat or in cocktails. This Bourbon has one of the best finishes I like in my top 20 Bourbons of all time.
Redemption Rye
Redemption Rye is a high-quality rye whiskey made with a blend of 95% rye and 5% malted barley. It's aged for at least 2 years, and it has a bold, spicy flavor with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. Redemption Rye is perfect for sipping neat, cocktails or Old Fashioneds. This one will be a house favorite once you add it to your drink menu.
McFarlane's Reserve 13 Year
McFarlan's Reserve 13 Year is a small-batch bourbon made with a blend of 70% corn, 25% rye, and 5% malted barley. It's aged for at least five years and has a smooth, mellow flavor with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. McFarlan's Reserve is perfect for sipping neat, in cocktails, or Old Fashioneds. While its great as a cocktail bourbon - this one does fine as a neat cocktail with a big rock!
Bib & Tucker 6 Year
Bib & Tucker 6 Year is a bourbon that's made with a blend of 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley. It's aged for at least 6 years, and it has a rich, complex flavor with notes of vanilla, caramel, oak, and spice. Bib & Tucker 6 Year is perfect for sipping neat. You will fall in love with the smoothness of this Kentuck Bourbon.
How these bourbons can increase bar sales in your restaurant:
Offer a variety of bourbons to appeal to different customers. Some customers prefer a classic bourbon like Blanton's, while others prefer a more unique one like Angel's Envy. By offering a variety of bourbons, you can attract a broader range of customers.
Promote your bourbon offerings. Let your customers know that you have a wide selection of bourbons. You can do this by adding bourbons to your cocktail menu, creating a bourbon-tasting menu, or simply posting about your bourbon offerings on social media.
Educate your staff about bourbon. Ensure your team knows the basics of bourbon, such as how it's made, what different types of bourbon there are, and how to pair it with food. This will help them make recommendations to your customers and help them choose the perfect bourbon for their taste.
I often find that a lack of education about Bourbon is one of the high turnoffs of any patron who wants to try an authentic cocktail experience. Dig into the background, the barrel process, the history, and most of all, the finish and flavor of your bourbons!