As South Africans recover from their post-Dezemba hangovers, we’re already looking ahead to what 2026 has in store to fill our glasses. Whether it’s sundowners that start earlier than usual, proudly local pours, or elevated alcohol-free options, drinking culture is evolving fast.
While South Africans have long enjoyed a strong drinking culture (we rank fifth top drinkers in the world, with drinkers averaging a whopping 7l per year), recent global insights –including findings from the Bacardi Cocktail Trends Report 2026 – show that consumers now want more than just a stiff drink. Think better value, intentional drinking, lifestyle-aligned brands, and flavours that feel personal.
From sober-curious sipping to premium experiences with cultural depth, here’s what you can expect to see shaping drinks carts across the country this year.
Top 5 drink trends that will get you updating your drinks cart stat
1. The ‘daycap’ is the new nightcap
2025 provided interesting insights into consumers’ drinking habits, with a trend toward drinking and dining earlier instead of later. Think late lunches, sunset spritzes, and golden-hour cocktails as a sweet treat to end the day, not wipe the rest of it. Earlier drinking patterns are showcasing consumers’ needs for the same buzz while socialising, but without the next-day regret. With a large group of sober-curious drinkers leading this trend (AKA Gen Z), there’s an even bigger focus on lower alcohol drinks, mini aperitifs and smaller cocktails aimed at becoming a sweet treat.
2. Local is lekker
Consumers have started strongly prioritising provenance, sustainability and supporting local in many aspects, including the food and beverage industry. One trend we’ve noticed is craft spirits and small-batch wines, and other spirits gaining mainstream appeal. We’re all for producers using local flavours to tell authentic South African stories. Look out for indigenous botanicals, rooibos, honeybush, naartjie, buchu, and fynbos-inspired spirits.
3. Sober-curious demands more non-alcoholic options
While many of us love an ice-cold cocktail or beer at the end of a long day, there seems to be an even bigger group of sober-curious drinkers demanding more no- and low-alcoholic spirits, beers, wines, and ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages. Leading the charge is the notorious Gen Zs who boast mindful drinking, expecting flavour-first and alcohol-free options. This links well with another emerging trend of screen-free socialising events like games nights and hobby evenings. It seems that alcohol is slowly starting to feel like a choice, instead of a compromise.
4. Maximalist drinks that deliver real value
Even though drinking times have become earlier, the party vibes with maximalist, glamorous, and over-the-top cocktails are still taking centre stage. Only with a slight change: as long as the overall experience offers heightened, memorable experiences that are worthy of the price tag. Bring on the edible pearls, metallic garnishes, fire presentations, and high-drama glassware.
5. Premium becomes cultural
The most important shift we’ve noticed is how premium is defined. Price alone no longer guarantees prestige. Consumers are expecting a lot more from brands marketing premium drinks. For many engaged consumers, especially Gen Z, premium must mean more than prestige and wealth. It now needs to include alignment with identity, values, and moments that matter. The new premium is no longer pretentious, but intentional.
From day drinking and alcohol-free sips to proudly local flavours and culturally conscious premium brands, 2026 is all about drinking with intention. Whether you’re hosting more thoughtfully or simply upgrading your at-home bar, these trends prove that what and why we drink is becoming just as important as what’s in the glass.
