A recent bevalcinsights.com report featuring “Drizly’s Top Predictions for Summer 2022 Sales” provides some great insight as to what consumers plan to drink this summer as temperatures – and travel – heats up. This summer, recovering retailers can capitalize on consumer preferences and their desire to experience the local flavor after being homebound for summers’ past. It’s no surprise that people generally reach for more refreshing beverages during the hot summer months; however, as beverage trends have shifted, what refreshing beverages people will reach for is the key question this summer.

According to Drizly’s report, white wine and light lagers have experienced more popularity than usual this year, which suggests that this popularity will only increase during the summer months.

Ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails continue to enjoy massive popularity, and it seems that they may replace hard seltzers as the #1 go-to for summer celebrations. One reason why RTD are gaining popularity may be because people are considering more what they are putting into their bodies, opting for more natural choices. Liz Paquette, Drizly’s head of consumer insights, notes that, “The RTD category continues to grow and gain awareness among consumers. Consumers are becoming more educated on what is in the drinks they are choosing – like vodka-based cocktails versus malt-based seltzers – as well as seeking new flavor innovation.”

As red wine has recently increased in popularity, especially amongst younger consumers, white wine may also increase in popularity this summer, as it has increased in shares since 2021, and wine lovers may opt for the cooler, more refreshing wine option during the summer months.