Dry January has ended, but the traction this challenge gains each year has inspired alcohol brands to make sure even those opting out of alcohol can still enjoy their products.  

In addition to more low- and no-alcohol products, we expect to see a battle of the brands and flavor when it comes to alcohol product launches this year. Tequila, whiskey and rum are experiencing year-over-year growth, which means we anticipate these spirits to dominate the category this year.  

Check out our 5 Trends to Watch in 2023 featuring Alcohol:  

1. Tequila, Whiskey & Rum 

As RTD cocktails become mainstream, consumers seek out their preferred spirit base. With tequila, whiskey and rum all seeing year-over-year growth, expect new product and innovative launches including these spirits.  

2. Flavor & Cost Drive Purchase 

Flavor and cost continue to lead as purchase drivers across food and drink. With inflation and economic concerns, these two attributes will continue to gain importance in repeat purchase for alcohol.  

3. Flavor Intensity to Return 

As brands move away from the standards hard seltzers set in previous years, flavor intensity is set to return as consumers seek more flavorful options of their preferred drinks. Globally inspired, tropical and berry profiles will continue to see growth. 

4. Battle of the Brands 

New products, line expansions and new brands will battle for center stage as the move from renovation to innovation will begin in 2023.  

5. Sober Curious Beyond Dry January 

With the low and no alcohol category gaining traction each year, brands are innovating new products to allow consumers opting out of alcohol to still enjoy social moments and new products from their favorite brands.  

Synergy’s beverage experts understand both the art and science of crafting the perfect cocktail that meets the taste and label expectations of the most discerning consumer to ensure they become your repeat customer. From spirits to ready-to-drink cocktails to beer and hard seltzers, our highly collaborative environment offers ready-to-sample flavors and custom-created profiles to help design your next best-selling product.  

Visit our market solutions page to learn more about our expertise and how Synergy can help you from concept ideation to full-scale commercialization.  

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