2025 beverage trends: from savoury cocktails to sustainable choices

Coffee will never go out of style, but you might notice certain java-inspired trends take over every year. Picture: Pexels/Kaboompics

Coffee will never go out of style, but you might notice certain java-inspired trends take over every year. Picture: Pexels/Kaboompics

Published 13h ago

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Whether you start your morning with a hot cup of coffee or tea, wake with a refreshing cold brew or enjoy a sparkling glass of flavoured water, the perfect beverage can set the mood for your day.

From the revival of nostalgic classics to budget-friendly DIY creations, these 2025 beverage trends offer something for every taste.

As more people experiment with flavours and creative combinations, these drinks are more than just a way to quench your thirst; they’re an experience.

With so many options, it’s the perfect time to gather ingredients and try crafting your own flavourful beverages.

Salty, spicy, and tangy drinks will be huge in 2025. Picture: Pexels/Airamdphoto

Savoury cocktails

Salty, spicy, and tangy drinks will be huge in 2025. For a long time, umami has been used to describe food, but in recent times, bartenders have used savoury ingredients to bring umami to drinks.

Adding ingredients like prawns, tomatoes, mushrooms, beetroots and even cheese, can create the ultimate savoury experience.

Functional beverages take centre stage

Gone are the days when drinks were merely about refreshment. In 2025, the focus will shift towards functional beverages that cater to our wellness demands.

From probiotics in kombucha to adaptogenic herbs in tonics, these drinks will be formulated to boost immunity, enhance mental clarity and improve digestion.

Expect an influx of brands crafting drinks that taste good and are packed with nutritional benefits.

Coffee will never go out of style, but you might notice certain java-inspired trends take over every year. Picture: Pexels/Kaboompics

Coffee at home

Coffee will never go out of style, but you might notice certain java-inspired trends take over every year. The new wave of coffee has arrived and it’s nothing like we’ve seen before.

Today, consumers are focused on a more personalised cup, increasingly intrigued by new, exciting textures and flavours that rebel against the purist brews of the past.

In this new wave, coffee is increasingly considered a little treat especially among Gen-Z, who drink it throughout the day as an affordable indulgence.

In 2025, we will see brands deliver products that encourage at-home coffee play and personalisation, with a focus on different textures and added tastes like cold foam and floral flavours.

Sustainability as a standard

With climate change awareness reaching unprecedented levels, sustainability will be more than just a trend – it will become a standard in the beverage industry.

Brands will be held accountable for their sourcing and packaging practices, opt for biodegradable materials and introduce refillable systems.

Look out for drinks that are produced with the environment in mind, creating a circular economy while providing consumers with guilt-free indulgence.

Flavoured water makes staying hydrated fun and entertaining. Picture: Pexels/Solodsha

Watertok is alive and well

The “watertok” trend continues to shine on social media. Recipes for enhanced waters with liquid drops and powdered packets took over last summer, and the trend is expected to continue.

After all, with an uptick in the purchase of trendy water bottles and fancy glass tumblers, naturally what goes in the cups is also bound to become a trend.

Think beyond plain water and make your favourite natural creations like fresh strawberry lemonade and cucumber mint.

Or for something more whimsical, consider unicorn or mermaid water. These options include edible glitter to make the beverage magical. This new flavoured water trend makes staying hydrated fun and entertaining.

Global flavours making waves

Diversity is key in 2025, with steeper flavours from around the world taking the spotlight. Expect to see exotic herbs, spices and fruits from lesser-known regions influencing drink formulations.

From Southeast Asian infusions to South American fruit blends, these exciting flavours aim to offer adventurous sips that tell a story and provide a taste of world cultures.

Personalisation becomes paramount

The demand for unique and personalised experiences will surge this year. Consumers will be looking for drinks tailored to their tastes and preferences.

Brands are responding by introducing DIY kits, flavour enhancers or even app-based systems to create custom beverages.

This trend will not only engage customers but also deepen their connection to brands that offer them what they truly desire.