""I think there are two different sides to what we'll see make a comeback," Horn explains about 2026 cocktail trends. At bars and restaurants, she notes that consumers order "sweeter classics like the appletini, the French martini, and the Amaretto Sour." At home, however, Horn adds that "great cocktails that traditionally haven't been made 'great' at home like an authentic mai tai or cosmopolitan" will make a comeback. In essence, folks will be mixing up fancier cocktails at home while ordering comforting and sweet classics"
"According to Horn, the "joy of making what was once old new again in a sustainable, innovative, or otherwise engaging way" influences the resurgence of classic cocktails, adding that there's already a "massive surge in top shelf Ready-To-Drink cocktails that are showcasing balanced old-school cocktails." The mixologist notes that this will help give consumers the confidence to make classic cocktails at home, offering "a taste of how great these can be when done right.""
2026 brings a revival of vintage and old-school cocktail trends, with consumers seeking nostalgic, comforting drinks and elevated at-home mixes. Bars and restaurants will see increased orders of sweeter classics like the appletini, French martini, and Amaretto Sour. Home bartenders will focus on making traditionally challenging cocktails at a higher level, such as authentic mai tais and cosmopolitans. Top-shelf ready-to-drink cocktails showcasing balanced, old-school recipes will surge and provide examples of well-made classics. Easy-to-use spirits, notably vodka for its affordability and flexibility, will reemerge as popular choices for both professional and home mixing.
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