India to toast new year on a cocktail high

India, consumers are now embracing bold, vibrant flavours, with fruity (66%), sweet (53%), and spicy (50%) cocktails leading the way for the next 12 months, as per the cocktail trends report.

- As per Jonas Ax, advocacy lead, Bacardi

As per Jonas Ax, advocacy lead, Bacardi, "It's the perfect time to recommend cocktails like the Patron Picante, especially as tequila continues to steal the spotlight," he said. Siya Negi, head of the bar programme at The Leela Palace, New Delhi, agreed. "Picante has emerged as a perfect representation of India's rich heritage of spices. Known for its bold, yet balanced spicy kick, this cocktail resonates deeply with the Indian palate," she said.

Atipriya Sarawat, co-founder of cocktail bar Asper in Gurugram, added: "Savoury and spicy cocktails that are spirit-forward are hugely in demand, such as Picante. The popularity of tequila, whether straight or as a cocktail base, will continue to grow. Cocktails with sparkling wine or champagne are gaining momentum as well," she said.