Trends in the alcohol world come and go. While we’re used to trends like unique barrel-aged beers, over-the-top cocktails, and creatively aged and finished whiskeys, 2025 seems to be the year of moderation
Being an elderly Millennial, this is news to me. I enjoy a nice glass of whiskey, a beer or two, or a flavorful cocktail from time to time. But it seems that Gen Z drinkers don’t share my affinity for boozy drinks. This generation has shifted to a lifestyle featuring much less alcohol than Millennials and Generation X. Not only is there a decrease in drinking, but there’s also a rise in lower-ABV drinks and non-alcoholic choices. But why is this?
The rise of moderation
Some experts point to an increase in decisions based on health, especially when it comes to what Gen Z is drinking. In past decades, moderate social drinking was seen as a normal aspect of adulthood. Now, by some, it’s seen as unhealthy. According to Gallup, 53% of American adults believe drinking in moderation (one or two drinks per day), isn’t healthy. Dale Vaughn, owner of Space Bar in Pittsburgh, believes that the COVID-19 pandemic was the catalyst for this rise in moderation and Teetotaling.
“I think people during the pandemic probably spiraled a bit. We got a little cozy with alcohol as a coping mechanism for a strange and uncertain world.”
Then, when we came out of the pandemic, everyone began to cut back as we returned to some sense of normalcy. The big challenge was the fact that things had changed. We were no longer living in the same world.
“I think that most of our species builds socializing into drinking establishments as our third places that aren’t our homes, and so people still find themselves at bars or restaurants with friends gathered around a table, and they don’t want to miss out on the conviviality of that experience because we need to lean on each other so much right now,” he adds. “So that’s why there’s a push toward better mocktails and nonalcoholic beers because we still want to celebrate and have nice things but not over-serve or over-medicate.”
Why is Gen Z drinking less?
There are many reasons why Gen Z is drinking less alcohol than previous generations. They include an increase in wellness, healthy choices, sober curiosity, and other health-related choices. But other reasons include societal norms moving away from the “bar” being the place friends hang out after work. Instead, some younger adults are traveling, spending time outdoors, and getting involved in community-related activities. A lack of funds and a higher cost of living might also have an impact on their alcohol consumption.
Vaughn believes there’s a misconception about the trend,s though. He says that younger generations are drinking less as a whole, but he’s observed that they’re also the most curious about the depth and experience of their drinks.
“So, their goal is still to enjoy the moment; they’re just a bit more discerning about what makes a moment special. It’s less about simply getting drunk.”
He adds, “For instance, I had a Gen Z guest this week who had two of our Highball cocktails and told me that he left feeling great–that he didn’t know you could drink and actually feel good afterward. He didn’t realize how impactful it would be to have quality alcohol and the absence of garbage mixers full of sugar. For bartenders, I think this is a call to action. We are being asked to be thoughtful. To not be lazy or cut corners with ingredients or spirits. In today’s craft game, balance is everything.”
What low-ABV and non-alcoholic drinks are trending?
You might be wondering what low-ABV drinks are trending today. They include things like Prosecco, vermouth, and various aperitifs like the Aperol Spritz, Campari Soda, and more.
What’s trending at Space Bar might be different than others. While some bars tend to build low-ABV and non-alcoholic drinks by starting with a classic cocktail and replacing the booze, they build their
“We ask ourselves what’s the story we’re telling our travelers (our guests are on board a starship traveling through the universe)? What can we do to replace the puzzle piece of alcohol–which is body, structure, complexity, and a heightened experience.”
He adds, “So, for instance, for our NA Tart-ooine Sour [soursop, pandan, passionfruit, makrut lime leaf], we did a coconut fat wash to bring out that body and layered complexity. I think today’s Molecular Mixology really lends itself to the gastronomy of non-alcoholic drinks. Thinking about the whole meal in the glass.”
Moderation tips
If you’re interested in moderation, there are a few things you can do. The simple concept is to just drink less than you normally would, or purchase cocktails not known to be extra boozy (like a Manhattan, Old Fashioned, or Long Island Iced Tea). Also, drink less often than you normally would. Go out on Friday night, but not Saturday. You can also have a “dry” few weeks or months where you abstain from alcohol altogether. Have a non-alcoholic beer or cocktail, or simply don’t drink at all and let your body reset.
