The Gin Guild commissioned new consumer research with OnePoll to establish current trends within the category, and determine the popularity of the juniper-based spirit. The online poll, which surveyed 2,000 alcohol drinkers (aged between 24-38), reveals gin & tonic to be the spirit based drink of choice this summer, followed by Pimms, with vodka & tonic in third place.
88% of respondents stated that they were more sociable during the summer, and sitting in a pub garden sipping a gin and tonic were voted amongst the top things they loved to do.
Of those surveyed, 89% said they enjoyed the social aspect of drinking gin either in a pub, bar or restaurant, which is great news for the on-trade.
Revival of classic cocktails
Although the results highlight that gin and tonic is still by far the most popular gin based drink, the survey also showed the revival in popularity of classic cocktails, including The Martini, Tom Collins and Negroni.
Thirst for premium gin
Bombay Sapphire and Gordons are the most popular brands, with approximately 25% of respondents naming them as their favourites. Beefeater and Hendrick’s also scored well, with over 10% of respondents stating them as their preferred choice, followed closely by Tanqueray.
There is a growing thirst for premium gin, ranging from established brands to smaller craft and artisan distillers, with 20% of respondents claiming they would pay more for a premium gin. Interestingly, 62% of respondents are now requesting a specific brand when ordering at the bar, rather than settling for the ‘house’ gin, and half of all respondents also now ask for a tonic by name.
A contemporary, sophisticated drink of choice
Nicholas Cook, Director General of The Gin Guild commented, “It is fantastic news for the gin category as a whole to see that 64% of respondents are likely to drink gin more regularly now than they did three years ago. What is even more encouraging is that much of the increased popularity seems to be coming from consumers seeking out and enjoying a whole range of gin brands, from big brands to smaller craft or locally produced gins.
“The research also demonstrates that the on-trade is continuing to recognise the flexibility and unique qualities that gin brings to cocktail making, with the majority of respondents preferring to enjoy gin in an on-trade environment.
“Gin has long been favoured by British people due to its established place in British culture, however with the rise of craft gins and innovative brands it has shaken off its old fashioned image, and is increasingly being viewed as a contemporary, sophisticated drink of choice.”
The Gin Guild was established in 2012 to promote and encourage commitment to excellence in gin distillation and industry custodianship of the spirit category.
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