UK | Waitrose has reported a significant shift in at-home drinking habits, with shoppers snapping up savoury ingredients to recreate their favourite spicy serves at home.
Fuelled by ingredients and flavours found in popular Mexican cocktails, customers have been adding salt and Mexican seasoning rims, a kick of Tabasco, pickle juice or a beer base to their evening tipple.
Lizzie Haywood, Trend Innovation Manager at Waitrose, said that the classic salt rim was first introduced into Western bar culture through margaritas and has since become a staple of many popular cocktails.
On social media and in London bars, she saw an influx of people getting creative with salt rims, looking to enhance their savoury cocktails with additions like Mexican seasoning for spice, citrus zest, or even herbs like basil or rosemary for an extra fragrant touch.
According to Jourdan Gabbini, Beer, Cider & Spirits Buyer at Waitrose, Mexican cocktails have become a great option for those looking to embrace the savoury drinks trend this summer.
“So many are led by those bold, salty and spicy flavours that our customers are loving at the moment. The spicy margarita is a classic example, using lime juice for an acidic freshness, and Mexican seasoning and salt on the rim for that signature kick,” said Gabbini.
He added that these flavours can easily be added to other cocktails for a savoury twist, such as a spicy paloma, which has become increasingly popular, because the salt and Tajin cut perfectly through that tart grapefruit.
Alternatively, Gabbini mentioned that the malty, beer-based Michelada was a unique savoury cocktail that paired well with other savoury flavours, such as Tabasco and Worcestershire sauce.
“It’s a really delicious option for those looking for an alternative to spirit-based cocktails."
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