The way people drink is changing fast. In short, 2026 is the year of ready-to-drink cocktails (the only major category still growing), mindful drinking, “drink less but better”, spritzes and espresso martinis, agave spirits – and shopping through AI assistants with on-demand delivery.
1. Ready-to-drink keeps rising
IWSR estimates global RTD volumes grew about 1.3% in 2025 while beer (-0.2%), spirits (-1.3%) and wine (-2.4%) declined, making RTDs the only major alcohol category expected to grow in 2026. RTDs are outpacing total beverage alcohol in eight of the top ten markets and are forecast to reach 4% of volumes in ten key markets by 2029, up from 2% in 2019. In Amman that means Buzz, Kixxy, Le Coq and Yachting – see our RTD guide.
2. Mindful drinking and “zebra striping”
Moderation is mainstream: IWSR expects no-alcohol drinks to grow about 7% a year in ten key markets between 2024 and 2028. One habit spreading fast is zebra striping – alternating an alcoholic drink with a non-alcoholic one. Easy wins: longer highballs with more soda, water between drinks and lower-ABV choices from our mixers.
3. Gen Z: fewer categories, more intention
IWSR data shows the average number of drink categories Gen Z consumers have per occasion fell from 2.8 to 1.8 in two years. Younger drinkers pick one drink they love rather than hopping between styles.
4. Drink less, but better – selectively
Premiumisation hasn’t disappeared, but cost-of-living pressure makes people choosier about when they trade up: a special bottle for the occasion, better-value sizes for everyday. Ideas in our gift guide.
5. Spritzes and espresso martinis
According to Bacardi’s Cocktail Trends Report, 38.9% of Gen Z prefer a spritz at lunch versus 24.6% of over-60s, and almost half of young Brits would rather end a meal with an espresso martini than an espresso. Make an Aperol Spritz 3-2-1 with Prosecco and soda, or an espresso martini with vodka, Kahlúa and coffee – or grab Coppa’s ready-made version.
| المنتج | الحجم | نسبة الكحول | السعر (د.أ) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aperol Aperitivo 70CL | 700 ML | 11% | 36 |
| Lamberti Prosecco Extra Dry | 750 ML | — | 20 |
| Kahlúa The Original Coffee Liqueur | 1000 ML, 700 ML | 16% | 37–48 |
| Coppa Cocktails Espresso Martini 70cl | 700 ML | 14.9% | 20 |
| Coppa Cocktails Negroni 70cl | 700 ML | 14.9% | 20 |
الأسعار والتوفر محدّثة تلقائياً من متجر خمارة 5mara بتاريخ 2026-10-08. Prices in JOD, updated automatically.
6. Agave and new flavours
Agave spirits – tequila and mezcal – keep gaining shelf space worldwide, and with them demand for 100% agave tequilas such as Patrón, Don Julio and Avión. Read tequila in Jordan.
7. AI assistants and instant delivery
Adobe Analytics reported that traffic from AI assistants to US retail sites rose 393% year on year in Q1 2026, and that these visitors convert better than other channels. People now ask ChatGPT or Gemini “where can I get drinks delivered in Amman right now?” and expect a clear answer and fast delivery. That’s why 5mara keeps live prices, clear delivery areas and 24/7 service.
What it means for your night in Amman
- Try a light RTD instead of rounds of shots.
- Zebra-stripe: drink, then water or soda.
- Invest in one great bottle rather than several average ones.
- Order online and skip the late-night drive.
Prefer Arabic? اقرأ اتجاهات 2026 بالعربية.
Sources: The Spirits Business – IWSR RTD data (2026), IWSR – Six key drivers for 2026, BeverageDaily – IWSR no/low data, Morning Advertiser – Bacardi Cocktail Trends Report, Adobe Analytics via Decrypt (2026).
Drinks trends FAQ
What are the biggest drinks trends in 2026?
Ready-to-drink cocktails, mindful and lower-alcohol drinking, “drink less but better”, spritzes and espresso martinis, agave spirits and shopping through AI assistants with fast delivery.
What is zebra striping?
Alternating an alcoholic drink with a non-alcoholic one, such as water or soda, during the same night out.
Are RTDs still growing?
Yes. IWSR estimates RTD volumes grew about 1.3% in 2025, making them the only major alcohol category expected to grow in 2026.
What is mindful drinking?
Drinking with intention and moderation: smaller amounts, lighter drinks and non-alcoholic options between rounds.
What is the most popular cocktail in 2026?
Spritzes such as the Aperol Spritz and the espresso martini are among the most popular, especially with Gen Z.
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