Shaking things up

Singapore's top mixologists predict drink trends in our cocktail scene

- AMY VAN

Mixology Salon, InterContinental Robertson Quay Shuzo Nagumo, founder and master mixologist

We reached out to bartenders in Singapore's hottest bars on what's trending in our vibrant cocktail scene and what we'll be drinking in 2024. They also share what customers want these days in terms of flavour profiles and under-the-radar spirits sourced from Asia and South America.

Mixology Salon from Tokyo opened an outpost in Singapore this year. The bar is known for its signature ‘tea tails’, a distinctive concept that fuses modern mixology techniques and high quality Japanese green tea leaves such as gyokuro, oolong, and hojicha in expertly crafted cocktails. Mixology Salon’s goal for 2024 is to establish a presence in other parts of Asia.

Prediction of Asia’s cocktail trends for 2024

Rather than focusing on technological advancements, I believe more attention will be given to environmentally sustainable aspects, not just in Asia but worldwide. As a broader movement, I think cocktails and bars that incorporate local cultural backgrounds as their concept will attract more interest.

Asia’s standing in the world of mixology

I see it as progressive. Asia, even more so than Europe, is a melting pot of various cultures. The fusion of distinct cultures and mixology is an ongoing process, leading to the birth of new cocktails and bars. I anticipate particular attention to countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, India, and South Korea.

What’s new for 2024