By Shireen Jamooji
May 13, 2026
India used to follow the world's cocktail trends. Now it's setting its own. This World Cocktail Day, celebrate the five cocktail trends that India is ordering, Googling, and going back for and why each one says something real about how Indian tastes have evolved.
India’s in it’s golden age of cocktails. We recorded the highest growth in total beverage alcohol consumption in the first half of 2025, crossing 440 million nine-litre cases. This is a country in the middle of a drinking revolution
Fresh chilli, coriander, lime, and agave - the Picante mirrors India’s love for spice, freshness, and bold flavour in every sip.
Once considered too bitter, the Negroni is now India’s favourite gin cocktail, proving Indian drinkers are embracing balance and complexity.
India’s café obsession met cocktail culture. The Espresso Martini became the perfect blend of caffeine, nightlife, and coffee pride.
After years of sugary Mojitos, drinkers wanted cleaner flavours. The Daiquiri’s sharp mix of rum, lime, and sugar became the new favourite.
India’s favourite spirit found a lighter serve. Crisp, simple whisky cocktails are replacing heavy pours for a more relaxed drinking culture.
From kokum and curry leaves to tamarind and kaffir lime, Indian ingredients are becoming the centre of modern cocktail menus worldwide.