Gin is a favourite on the British bar scene, and with Christmas party season upon us, you might be wondering how to best utilise this spirit for your festive drink offerings.
It’s not just the kind of gin cocktails you offer on your menu, but also how you choose to present these drinks. During the gin boom of the 2010s, the use of the gin balloon glass (or Copa de Balon) also increased in popularity. In 2024’s market, however, it looks like this iconic glass isn’t top choice for presenting gin anymore.
At Stephensons, we have seen a decline in customers ordering the gin balloon glass over the last year as it appears trends are moving away from this style and back towards highballs and tumblers/old fashioned glasses. While there are benefits to using gin balloon glasses, (namely that their design helps drinkers pick up on the aromas of the botanical gin, and the large bowls leave plenty of room for ice, tonic, and garnish), there are some drawbacks too.
Due to their larger size, gin balloon glasses take up more room behind the bar when they’re not in use, as well as in glasswashers. This can reduce the number of glasses being washed during busy periods, when glassware needs to be replenished quickly. Highballs and tumblers are sleeker in their design, ultimately saving space where needed, with some options having a stackable design to help this further.
Additionally, highball glasses and tumblers are more versatile than the gin balloon glass. They can be utilised for a variety of cocktails, spirits, and even water and soft drinks. At a time when hospitality venues are trying to reduce their spending, it may be wiser to invest in glassware that can accommodate different drinks while still offering a stylish aesthetic.
There may be other factors contributing to the drop in gin balloon glass sales too, such as the decline in the gin craze overall…
Is the UK’s love for gin waning?
Although gin has been a staple spirit in the UK for over a century, and it saw a fresh surge in popularity in the 2010s, it appears that this spirit might be at risk of losing its crown when it comes to consumer favouritism. What’s changed?
A saturated market
One of the most likely reasons that gin has seen a decline over the last year or so is due to a saturated market. While gin sales in the UK hit their peak during 2020 (because who didn’t need a G&T in lockdown?), the demand has since fizzled out. With so many different craft gins and flavours to choose from, it’s likely consumers became overwhelmed with choice, ultimately turning them off.
People are drinking less
Another possible contributing factor to gin’s decline is due to consumers turning towards non-alcoholic drinks as people become more attracted to wellness trends. However, with many 0% gins on the market, there are still plenty of booze-free options to choose from.
Rival spirits
It could simply be due to consumers become fatigued with gin and searching for something new and exciting. While gin is still holding out as a top contender when it comes to spirits, tequila and agave spirits have been consistently making waves over the last year or two. The margarita is one of the most frequently ordered cocktails, and with many premium-quality, artisanal tequilas arriving on the scene, consumers are savouring these options more and more.
Should gin still appear on your cocktail lists?
In a word, yes—gin is still worth including in your cocktail menus and general drink offerings. Hospitality venues should think about perhaps focusing on a few premium gin options, as well as non-alcoholic versions to cater to those who aren’t indulging in boozing.
One gin cocktail that is certainly increasing in popularity is the martini. This classic drink oozes sophistication, and made with top-quality gin, its perfect for slowly sipping and savouring the unique botanical flavours mixed with vermouth.
The mini martini is particularly one to watch, as this option is popping up a lot on the London bar scene. Designed to be finished within a few sips, these miniature cocktails are perfect for a pre or post dinner drink. You could even offer a martini flight board for customers to sample a variety of martinis you offer.
It’s hard to imagine gin not being a principal spirit in UK bars, and although it might not be as popular as it was a few years ago, it is still a favourite choice for many. Hospitality venues should think about focusing on a few premium gin options—as well as non-alcoholic versions—if they want to make sure stock is moving off the backbar. Investing in stylish and versatile glassware to present your gin cocktails is also worthwhile, whether it’s a mini martini glass or a highball for a refreshing G&T.
