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Non-alcoholic cocktails and a return to the most classic patterns? Why not? Cocktail trends for 2013 differ from those last year and deserve being mentioned.
A return to the familiar, less alcohol consumption and permanent places for a good drink and a cool cocktail - the list of the latest trends in drinks does not contain a lot of surprises but is very interesting. Let's see some of them, as presented by Food & Wine.
Serving
Be prepared for the return of all those supporting "tools" for serving drinks, such as ice glassware, Japanese-style vessels for dose measurement, strange spoons, etc. All the things that were a serving fetish many years ago, are now returning dynamically in order to impress us.
The return of the Daiquiri
2013 is expected to be the year of the return of the daiquiri cocktail, since rum is coming onto the stage. This is an extremely simple and very tasty drink, which requires only three ingredients: rum, lime juice, simple sugar syrup and a cold martini glass.
Non-alcoholic cocktails
Another trend that will develop in 2013 is the demand for beverages with a low (or no) alcohol content. Preferences and tastes vary over time and customers prefer drinks with a lower alcohol content, with a bitter or astringent taste.
Transparent ice
The purity of ice, rather than its form, will be what will determine the quality of the best bars in the world. Therefore, crushed ice will surely make a good impression. However, a clear and transparent ice cube on top of your drink is certainly more worthwhile.
Chef cooks in bars?
The gap between the kitchen and bars is narrowing and bar-owners are now beginning to create components that will be used in cocktails. Do not be surprised if you see pepper, pickles, honey and lemon juice used in a cocktail. This will be a result of the owner's ... inspiration.
A drink for ... breakfast
If you have to have a drink at brunch, there are various ways to select the right one. You can choose something unusual, but as trivial as Μimosa or Bellini (champagne). Or, you can always choose a Bloody Mary cocktail (with vodka and tomato juice) for more serious cases. There is, of course, the classic tequila.
All-time-classics: brandy and cognac
Cognac and brandy are tops of the drinks and will always remain classic and timeless. Drink them slowly, it is best not to overdo it, especially for those who are not accustomed to drinking. These two beverages are ideal for the winter because of the warmth they bring. Do not hesitate to immerse yourself in the sweet intoxication offered by these two classic drinks.
Draft drinks?
Many classic drinks will be served on draft, as happens today with beer. Do not be surprised if you see cognac served on draft instead of from traditional luxury bottles.
Limiting the production of "home-made" drinks
Domestic production of alcoholic beverages is decreasing. And this is probably a positive trend, because such temptations are often dangerous.