firststepbeverage

2026 Beverage Trends: How Top Brands Will De-Risk Innovation and Win Buyer Confidence

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 22:28:38 GMT

2026 Beverage Trends: How Top Brands Will De-Risk Innovation and Win Buyer Confidence

Michael Halsey – Chief Operating Officer, FirstStepBeverage

Most beverage brands do not lose because the liquid is wrong. They lose because complexity outruns clarity.

One strategy for DTC. Another for on-premise. A third for wholesale. Each channel optimized independently, each decision defensible on its own. Collectively, the brand becomes harder to understand, harder to scale, and harder for buyers to commit to.

As we move into 2026, that fragmentation is no longer just inefficient. It is a competitive liability.

At the same time, technology is quietly rewriting how beverage brands can innovate, validate demand, and communicate value. Not in theory. In practice.

The brands that learn how to apply these tools across channels will not just grow. They will de-risk innovation, accelerate velocity, and command buyer confidence while others stall.

Three technology shifts are driving this change. What matters is not knowing they exist, but understanding what is actually changing, why buyers care, and what brand owners must do now to capitalize on them.

1. Tech-Enabled Trend Acceleration: Innovation Is No Longer a Forecast

What is really changing

Historically, beverage innovation followed a predictable arc. Insight. R&D. Test. Launch. Learn.

A 12 to 24 month cycle if everything went right.

In 2026, that timeline has collapsed.

AI-driven trend scanning now pulls signals from social platforms, menus, search behavior, and early velocity data. Rapid formulation tools shorten development. Limited runs validate demand in real markets. Optimization happens after launch, not after failure.

Brands are no longer predicting trends. They are detecting and responding to them while they are forming.

Why this matters commercially

Trend lifecycles are shorter. Shelf space is tighter. Buyers are more risk-averse. Innovation fatigue is real.

Retailers and distributors do not want inspiration decks. They want proof of demand.

Tech-enabled acceleration allows brands to launch fewer SKUs, kill underperformers faster, and scale winners with confidence. That alone changes the economics of growth.

How buyers interpret this

When buyers hear,
“We used real-time consumer and velocity data to develop this SKU,”
they do not hear marketing.

They hear lower inventory risk. Faster turns. Smarter resets. Less dead innovation.

This approach is especially compelling in categories where failure is common and attention is scarce. RTDs. Functional beverages. Seasonal releases. Low and no alcohol. Mood and hybrid formats.

What brand owners must do now

First, replace static trend decks with live signals. Stop relying solely on annual reports, trade show buzz, and anecdotal distributor feedback. Start monitoring social listening across TikTok, Instagram, and Reddit. Track menu adoption. Watch search velocity and competitive SKU launches and delists. This does not require a data science team. Lightweight tools or the right partners are enough.

Second, design products for test, learn, scale. Pilot regionally. Launch limited flavors. Test alternate functional claims. Measure velocity, repeat purchase, and usage occasions. Buyers respond to statements like, “This SKU outperformed category velocity by X percent in a 12 week pilot.”

Third, share insight back to buyers. This step is often missed. Bring trend snapshots. Early consumer feedback. Pilot results. Even what you killed and why. This positions the brand as a category partner, not just another vendor asking for space.

2. Phygital Experiences and Interactive Packaging: The Package Is Now the Channel

What is really changing

Packaging used to serve three purposes. Contain the liquid. Communicate the brand. Meet compliance.

In 2026, packaging does more.

It becomes a digital gateway. A storytelling device. A data collection engine. A loyalty and engagement trigger.

Phygital is not a buzzword. It is the fusion of a physical product with a digital experience that extends its value beyond the shelf.

Why this matters commercially

Shelf attention is fleeting. Consumers increasingly research after they pick up the product, not before. Brands also need first-party data, especially in alcohol where access is limited.

Interactive packaging extends dwell time, increases memorability, drives repeat purchase, and creates social amplification. It turns a one-time interaction into an ongoing relationship.

How buyers interpret this

Buyers are asking different questions now. How does this brand drive engagement? Will this support velocity beyond launch? Does this create reasons to repurchase?

A package that does something answers all three.

What brand owners must do now

First, move beyond scan-to-homepage QR codes. That is wasted real estate. Instead, connect packaging to something useful. Product education. Functional benefits. Cocktail or mocktail recipes. Mood or occasion guidance. Founder story or sourcing transparency. Limited drops or loyalty access.

The question to ask is simple. What does the consumer get for scanning?

Second, tie packaging to specific occasions. The most effective phygital experiences are contextual. Evening unwind might include a guided ritual or pairing. Post-workout hydration might include benefit education. Social hosting might offer serving tips or batch recipes. Buyers like this because it clarifies shelf placement, expands usage occasions, and improves basket size.

Third, u se packaging to collect first-party data. Even simple interactions can capture email, flavor preference, occasion use, and repeat engagement. This data fuels smarter innovation, stronger buyer conversations, and more effective promotions. In alcohol, this is especially valuable.

3. AI-Powered Personalization and Product Co-Creation: Demand Is No Longer Assumed

What is really changing

Consumers no longer want to be marketed to. They want to participate, influence, personalize, and be heard.

AI enables brands to translate consumer input into real product decisions. It allows preference segmentation at scale and faster optimization of formulations and claims.

This is not mass customization. It is mass relevance.

Why this matters commercially

Personalization increases emotional connection, drives repeat purchase, reduces failed innovation, and supports premium pricing.

More importantly, it gives buyers confidence that demand exists before they commit shelf space.

How buyers interpret this

When buyers hear, “This product was co-created with our consumers,” they think built-in audience, faster trial, higher engagement, and lower markdown risk.

This is particularly compelling for emerging brands, line extensions, new flavor platforms, and functional positioning.

What brand owners must do now

First, invite consumers into the innovation process. This does not require complex systems. Flavor voting. Functional benefit ranking. Occasion preference selection. Limited batch feedback loops. AI helps interpret the data, not just collect it.

Second, use AI to cluster preferences, not individuals. The goal is not to make one drink per person. The goal is to identify three to five high-confidence preference clusters, build SKUs around them, communicate them clearly to buyers, and align shelf placement accordingly.

Third, tell the co-creation story properly. Do not say consumers helped us choose this flavor. Say 3,200 consumers participated and this profile outperformed alternatives by X percent in preference testing. That is a buyer-ready narrative.

Why These Three Trends Are Most Powerful Together

The strongest brands in 2026 do not treat these as separate initiatives.

Tech-enabled trend acceleration identifies opportunity. AI-powered co-creation validates demand. Phygital packaging sustains engagement and feeds data back into the system.

This creates a closed innovation loop. Consumer insight leads to product. Product leads to engagement. Engagement leads to insight. Then the cycle repeats.

Buyers like this because it reduces risk, improves sell-through, and signals a future-ready brand that understands how modern demand works.

A Final Reality Check for Brand Owners

In 2026, buyers are not just buying liquid, packaging, or price points.

They are buying confidence, data, velocity, and relevance.

Brands that embrace these technology shifts do not just innovate. They become easier to understand, easier to trust, and easier to say yes to.

And in a crowded category with shrinking patience, that may be the most valuable advantage of all.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Many founders and senior leaders struggle to turn innovation into velocity, drive buyer confidence, and align DTC, on-premise, and wholesale channels simultaneously.

If this article has sparked ideas or questions about how to execute these trends effectively, I encourage you to reach out directly. We work with beverage and adult beverage brands to provide Fractional Leadership and Omni-Channel Stewardship that helps brands scale smarter, de-risk innovation, and get noticed by buyers.

You can comment below, send me a direct message, or learn more here : FirstStepBeverage – DTC & OMNI-Channel Stewardship

DTC Is Killing Adult Beverage Brands. Here's How to Survive It.

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 21:35:18 GMT

Let’s get something out of the way upfront: Direct-to-consumer (DTC) should be a launchpad — not a landmine.

But for too many adult beverage brands, it’s the latter.

You build a beautiful brand, your story resonates, your bottle looks great on a bar cart... and then the orders start coming in. Cue the chaos: late deliveries, regulatory nightmares, warehouse meltdowns, refund requests, and a customer service inbox full of “where’s my order?” emails.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

In the last two years, I’ve worked with dozens of emerging brands — from tequila to canned cocktails to adaptogenic elixirs — and nearly all of them stumble at the same point: getting the product from warehouse to consumer legally, quickly, and cost-effectively.

This isn’t a minor operational detail. It’s the difference between DTC working for you — or working against you.

And if you’re a founder or brand leader who's feeling buried in the operational weeds, wondering if there’s a better way to scale this mountain, I’ve got good news. There is.

Let’s break it down.

�� The Three-Headed Monster: Fulfillment, Compliance & Logistics

DTC is seductive. Own your customer, own your margins, build a brand on your terms.

But adult beverage brands aren’t selling shoes or t-shirts. They’re selling a controlled substance — one that’s wrapped in layers of state-by-state compliance, expensive fulfillment, and messy logistics.

Here are the top three challenges:

1. Shipping Compliance

State alcohol laws vary wildly. You can ship wine DTC in 40+ states, but spirits? You're lucky if you can legally ship to 10 without jumping through flaming hoops. Every state wants a license, a fee, and a unique label requirement. Miss one? Welcome to fines, product seizures, or worse — losing your permits entirely.

2. Fulfillment Bottlenecks

The DTC customer expects Amazon speed and Apple packaging. But most 3PLs don’t specialize in adult beverage. You need licensed partners, adult signature protocols, climate control in some cases, and shipping materials that won’t crack under pressure (literally).

3. Logistics That Break the Bank

Alcohol is heavy, fragile, and legally complicated to deliver. Between adult signature fees, limited carrier options, and failed delivery attempts, you might be losing $8–$15 per order — and that’s before the online/digital ad that got the customer there in the first place.

�� So... Who’s Doing It Right?

Good question. Let's take a look at a few recent success stories:

✳️ Hiyo + Kase

This functional beverage brand teamed up with Kase, a 3PL specializing in CPG brands. They implemented a multi-node fulfillment strategy, reducing shipping distances and costs. The result?

32% reduction in fulfillment cost per order
33% reduction in shipping cost
Faster delivery times = happier customers

✳️ Unnamed National Beverage Distributor (via Reveel)

Using active shipping management tools to analyze and optimize parcel spend, they unlocked nearly $1 million in annual savings by rethinking their carrier mix and delivery policies.

✳️ A Regional Spirits Brand (one of ours)

Without naming names: we helped a premium tequila brand scale DTC in 6 states through licensed partners, compliance automation, and restructured fulfillment contracts — and reduced their customer acquisition cost by 28% by making fulfillment a competitive advantage instead of a liability.

�� Best Practices from the Field

From these wins (and many painful lessons), here’s what the best in the game are doing right:

✅ Use Licensed, Alcohol-Savvy 3PLs

Don’t hand off your inventory to a vanilla 3PL and hope for the best. Use fulfillment partners who understand the adult beverage space — and have the licenses, tech, and packaging expertise to do it right.

✅ Route Smart: Multi-Node Fulfillment

Ship from where your customers are. Multi-node fulfillment not only cuts costs and shipping time — it’s also better for sustainability and failed delivery rates. Bonus: it helps with compliance across state lines.

✅ Integrate Compliance Tools

Software (We can recommend a few) is a must if you're doing any kind of volume. It tracks licensing, tax, and label rules across states and helps automate filings. If you’re still doing this manually, you’re living dangerously.

✅ Automate the Ops Stack

Make sure your fulfillment, eCommerce, CRM, and shipping systems talk to each other. Manual entry = errors. Errors = compliance risks, lost packages, and unhappy customers. Not a growth strategy.

✅ Focus on First Delivery Success

Failed deliveries kill margin and trust. Use pre-shipment notifications, SMS tracking, flexible delivery options, and adult signature success tools to maximize the first attempt.

✅ Brand Your Packaging Experience

A brown box and a crumpled packing slip? That’s not how you tell your story. The best brands treat the unboxing like part of the brand — clean, intentional, memorable. Packaging matters.

�� What’s Missing? Executive Focus.

All of this takes coordination, foresight, and execution. But if you’re the founder, do you really have time to be your own fulfillment strategist, compliance officer, and logistics manager?

You probably shouldn’t.

That’s where Fractional Executive Leadership comes in.

�� The Case for Fractional Leadership & Brand Stewardship

At FirstStepBeverage , our model was built for this moment.

You get a seasoned brand steward — someone who’s scaled DTC and wholesale, who knows the alcohol playbook and has the scars (and wins) to prove it — but without the full-time salary or slow ramp-up of an in-house exec.

Here’s what we bring:

�� Access to vetted, licensed fulfillment partners
�� Compliance oversight to keep your operation bulletproof
�� Optimized packaging + delivery systems
�� Forecasting and performance dashboards
�� DTC and omnichannel strategy execution
�� A sounding board who’s not guessing

And most importantly — we liberate founders from the operational grind .

You didn’t start this brand to spend your mornings chasing FedEx tracking numbers or filing shipping reports in six states. You built it to tell a story. To disrupt. To build legacy.

Let us help you get back to that.

✅ Ready to Audit Your Operation?

We built a tool just for that.

�� Take 3 minutes and complete the Beverage Brand Survival Scorecard.

It’s a no-BS self-assessment that shows you exactly where your DTC, compliance, logistics, and execution might be falling short — and what to do about it.

Once you’ve done that, reach out. We’d be glad to set up a no-pressure conversation about how FirstStepBeverage might help support your growth goals — without burying you in operations.

Because at the end of the day, your job isn’t to ship boxes. Your job is to build a brand that lasts. Let’s help you do that — and take the first step, together.

Michael Halsey

Chief Operating Officer

FirstStepBeverage.co

✉️ michaelhalsey@firststepbeverage.co

�� 949-307-6784

@1ststepbeverage

Scaling or Sinking: Why Beverage Brands Fail (and How Winners Survive)

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 00:03:52 GMT

By Michael Halsey, First Step Beverage

Walk into any liquor store and you’re in a graveyard. Bottles everywhere, each with a story, a hype cycle, maybe even some awards. Most of them? Dead brands. A few are zombies—still technically alive, but hemorrhaging cash while waiting for an acquirer who will never show up.

Here’s the kicker: it’s almost never because the liquid sucked. I’ve tasted some of the best tequila, RTDs, craft lagers, and “functional wellness tonics” from brands that don’t even exist anymore.

They failed for one simple reason: they never figured out how to build a real business.

And that’s the part no one wants to talk about. Beverages are a knife fight in a dark alley. One wrong step—signing with the wrong distributor, going all-in on a doomed DTC bet, letting ops bloat—and you’re done.

But the survivors? They’re not lucky. They’re disciplined. They’ve traded hype for sustainability, vanity metrics for KPIs, siloed fiefdoms for integrated leadership. They’ve built a new playbook.

The Death of “If You Build It, They Will Come”

Every founder thinks their liquid is special. “It’s small batch.” “It’s artisanal.” “It’s grandma’s recipe.” Cute. But look around—there are hundreds of mezcals, thousands of craft beers, and more functional seltzers than anyone can count. Quality isn’t a differentiator anymore.

Winning comes down to:

Distribution: not just getting a distributor, but actually managing them.
Branding: telling a story people care about (and believe).
Operations: scaling without bloating.
Omni-channel: balancing DTC and wholesale without losing your a$$.

Most founders obsess over the shiny stuff—labels, packaging, influencer deals—while ignoring the boring machine underneath. That’s why their fulfillment collapses, inventory piles up, and the brand flames out before it even gets traction.

The Money Pit No One Talks About

Let’s talk numbers, because this is where brands quietly bleed out.

Retail space is shrinking. Buyers aren’t adding new SKUs—they’re cutting them.
Logistics is brutal. Shipping cases cross-country without tight ops? You’re setting fire to cash.
DTC isn’t cheap. Compliance, fulfillment, CAC—it’s not the magic bullet you think it is. I’ve seen brands drop six figures on direct channels only to realize their repeat rate is trash.

The smart ones? They integrate tech with compliance and logistics. They don’t treat DTC like the savior—it’s just one piece of an omni-channel puzzle.

Those brands win.

Authenticity or Bust

Ten years ago, you could slap “artisanal” on a label, hire a photographer to shoot in a Bushwick warehouse, and call it a day. Not anymore. Consumers can smell the spin. They want real stories, real transparency, real values.

But authenticity without execution is just vibes. You need narrative + logistics = growth. Otherwise, you’re just another founder screaming “heritage” while your supply chain is on fire.

Enter: Brand Stewardship

Here’s the paradox. Founders can’t afford a $250k COO, CCO, or supply chain VP. But they also can’t afford not to.

That’s where fractional leadership comes in. At First Step Beverage, we call it Brand Stewardship .

We don’t parachute in with a PowerPoint deck and bounce. We embed. We sit in your ops. We drive decisions off KPIs. We fix the tech stack before it breaks. We align your team, vendors, and distributors so they’re all rowing in the same direction.

Think of it as getting C-suite firepower at a fraction of the cost.

Same Mistakes, Every Damn Time

I’ve seen this movie too many times:

The Vanity Launch. Founder spends $400k on packaging, influencers, and a launch party. Orders come in, but they can’t restock because their “warehouse” is a buddy’s garage. Dead in six months.
The Distributor Dump. They sign with a regional distributor, cases fly out the door. Victory lap, right? Wrong. Product sits in warehouses, sales reps ignore it, cash flow dries, brand dies.
The DIY Spiral. Founder insists on handling compliance, finance, and logistics solo. They burn 60% of their time wrestling with systems instead of building their brand. Burnout, wasted time, lost category momentum.

What Winners Actually Do

The winning brands aren’t winging it. They:

Treat direct and wholesale as complementary, not competitive.
Invest in partners that actually move the needle.
Prioritize repeat customers over one-off hype spikes.
Bring in fractional leadership to scale without burning the payroll.

They’re not just playing defense—they’re running smarter offense.

The Cheat Sheet for 2025/2026

If you’re building a beverage brand today, here’s the playbook:

Track real KPIs. Sell-through, repeat purchase rate, margin per channel. Not vanity metrics.
Think omni-channel. Balance DTC, retail, wholesale. Don’t over-index on one.
Outsource smart. 3PLs, compliance, agencies—they’re expensive, but not as expensive as screwing it up.
Don’t go it alone. Fractional execs let you borrow expertise you can’t afford full-time.
Tell the real story. Authenticity plus execution—or you’re toast.

Why Now Matters

The industry is in reset mode. Retailers are consolidating, consumers want wellness and transparency, and capital isn’t flowing like it was in 2021. This is the fork in the road where brands either break—or break through.

You can’t half-a$$ this anymore. You need systems. You need the right partners. You need stewardship.

What We Do (So You Don’t Have to Google It)

At First Step Beverage, we:

Act like your COO, CMO, and ops lead—without the payroll hit
Fix your tech stack before it collapses
Turn sales data into strategy
Align your team and your vendors
Get marketing, ops, and sales on the same damn page
Plug in as fractional execs when you’re underwater

Services:

Brand strategy & stewardship
Sales + marketing plans built on data, not vibes
Cross-channel coordination
KPI tracking & monthly reviews
Wholesale, retail, and DTC growth support

We don’t care if you’re bootstrapped or venture-backed. If you’ve got something worth building, we’ll help you build it smarter, faster, stronger.

Because at the end of the day, there are only two outcomes in this business: scaling—or sinking.

—Michael Halsey, COO FirstStepBeverage.co

Unlocking Growth in Agave Spirits: Why Transparency, Tech & Trust Will Define the Next Era

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 23:41:10 GMT

Unlocking Growth in Agave Spirits: Why Transparency, Tech & Trust Will Define the Next Era

For Owners, Investors & Brand Leaders in Tequila, Mezcal, and Agave Spirits

The agave spirits category has undergone a stunning transformation—from a party staple to a premium lifestyle product celebrated by connoisseurs and collectors alike. With global sales of tequila surpassing $10 billion in 2023 and the market forecasted to exceed $20 billion by 2030 , now is the time for brand owners and operators to make bold, smart moves.

Whether you lead a heritage distillery, back a celebrity brand, or manage a rising craft label, there’s one truth you can’t ignore:

Today’s consumers demand more than flavor—they want meaning, proof, and purpose in every bottle.

So how do you rise above the noise in one of the fastest-growing, most crowded spirits categories in the world?

�� Challenges & Unmet Consumer Needs

Despite the boom, the industry faces critical gaps—and incredible opportunities:

1. Transparency Fatigue

Too many brands make vague claims about being “authentic” or “handcrafted.” Consumers want proof.

2. Cultural Integrity

Appropriation and shallow storytelling can backfire. Brands must respect and celebrate the heritage behind agave spirits, especially mezcal.

3. Sustainability & Ethics

Environmental strain from overharvesting agave and labor concerns are growing issues. Consumers increasingly care how their spirits are made—not just how they taste.

4. Tech Disconnect

Despite premium packaging and branding, few brands offer a smart, tech-enabled experience that matches modern consumer expectations.

�� The Biggest Cross-Segment Opportunity

Radical Transparency + Cultural Integrity

The single most powerful strategy to win across mainstream , premium , and artisan audiences is a brand promise built on:

Verifiable sourcing
Honest production details
Celebrating people and place
Digital storytelling that educates and engages

This isn’t about gimmicks—it’s about building trust , differentiation , and loyalty at every level.

�� The Solution: Smart Transparency with Tech Integration

Imagine every bottle scan unlocking a world of context:

➤ A QR code on each label leads to a personalized digital experience, showing:

�� Agave type , origin, and harvest details
�� Profiles of distillers and farmers
�� Production and aging methods
�� Sustainability metrics (water use, emissions, certifications)
�� Tasting notes and food pairings
�� Optional blockchain-backed authentication for rare bottles
�� User rewards, loyalty points, and reorders—all in one place

This builds an interactive brand experience that:

Educates first-time buyers
Validates pricing for premium collectors
Creates ongoing engagement post-purchase

�� Market Trends & What’s Driving Growth

Tequila and Mezcal by the Numbers:

Tequila CAGR (2025–2030): 8–10%
Mezcal CAGR : 15–18% (premium-focused, from a smaller base)
U.S. Retail Tequila Sales (2023) : $10B+
Agave spirits have overtaken American whiskey as the #2 revenue-generating spirits category in the U.S.

Growth Drivers:

Premiumization : 60%+ of sales come from premium or higher tiers.
Mixology & On-Premise Demand : Tequila and mezcal dominate craft cocktail menus.
Celebrity Brands : Casamigos, 818, and Teremana fueled massive awareness.
Health & Lifestyle Fit : Agave spirits are perceived as cleaner, natural, and plant-based.
Cultural Curiosity : Consumers crave authentic experiences and brands that connect them to Mexican heritage.

�� How to Get Started (Without a Big Budget)

You don’t need to build custom software or hire a tech team. Here's a lean, proven stack to create your QR-powered storytelling system :

ComponentToolsQR CodesQR.io , FlowcodeLanding PagesWebflow, ShopifyProduct InfoAirtable or NotionEmail/SMS LoyaltyKlaviyo, PostscriptOptional BlockchainAuthentag, Everledger

�� 6-Month Quick-Start Roadmap:

Month 1–2 : Pick 1–3 SKUs, build landing pages with agave stories, tasting notes, and sustainability details.
Month 3–4 : Launch QR-enabled packaging. Collect scan data, offer rewards or email opt-ins.
Month 5–6 : Upgrade to dynamic pages and add limited-edition bottles with blockchain verification.

�� Final Takeaway: Prove It or Lose It

In an industry where buzzwords are easy but authenticity is rare, the next wave of winners will be those who prove their story , not just tell it. The brands that thrive will be those who invest in:

✅ Radical transparency ✅ Cultural respect ✅ Tech-enabled consumer trust ✅ Sustainable sourcing ✅ Emotional engagement

If you lead or invest in a tequila, mezcal, or agave spirits brand and want to explore how to turn these insights into strategy, execution, and growth—

Connect with us at FirstStepBeverage.co

First Step Beverage: Where Bold Ideas Meet Proven Execution

Have a breakthrough beverage concept or a premium spirit ready for launch? At First Step Beverage, we turn standout ideas into scalable, successful brands. Our team brings decades of hands-on experience in sales, marketing, and strategy—tailored specifically for the adult beverage industry.

Whether you're launching a new product or elevating an existing brand, we’ll craft a go-to-market strategy rooted in authenticity, digital innovation, and sustainable growth. From concept to shelf—and beyond—we help spirit brands build what’s next.

Ready to connect your brand with the right consumers and channels? Let’s talk.

Michael Halsey

Chief Operating Officer First Step Beverage FirstStepBeverage.co

Why Old-School Cocktail Practices Are Holding Your Bar Back (And How to Fix It)

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 22:49:34 GMT

Why Old-School Cocktail Practices Are Holding Your Bar Back (And How to Fix It)

�� Is Your Bar Stuck in the Past? ��

In the fast-paced world of Food & Beverage, Adult Beverage, and Hospitality, your cocktail program is a cornerstone of the customer experience. As industry leaders, you know that the quality of the drinks you serve can elevate—or break—the entire vibe of your establishment. But here’s the good news: we’re witnessing a shift from rigid traditions to more flexible, customer-centric practices. It’s time to pause, take a step back, and ask yourself: “Is this approach truly enhancing the guest experience, or are we just going through the motions because it’s always been done this way?”

In this article, we’ll explore outdated practices that might be holding your bar back and offer practical, innovative solutions to modernize your cocktail offerings while maintaining authenticity and quality. Ready to shake things up? Let’s dive in.

1. Personalization & Customization: Time to Break Free from One-Size-Fits-All Menus

The Issue:

Many bars still operate with a “standard cocktail menu,” which doesn’t take individual preferences, dietary restrictions, or even moods into account. Today’s customers expect more than just a one-size-fits-all approach.

The Reality:

We live in a world where customization is the norm—whether it’s picking your favorite coffee blend or curating your playlist. Guests now want that same level of flexibility with their drinks. This includes adjusting sweetness levels, offering spirit substitutions, and accommodating dietary needs (vegan-friendly, gluten-free, etc.).

How to Evolve:

Introduce a customizable cocktail menu, or better yet, offer a “build-your-own” drink option. Guests could choose from a variety of base spirits, mixers, garnishes, and flavors, creating a drink tailored to their preferences. Enhance this further with fun AI-driven recommendations or a bartender-guided experience, allowing customers to feel involved in their drink creation. Personalization isn’t just a trend—it’s the future of customer service.

2. High-Quality Non-Alcoholic & Low-ABV Options: The Rise of the Sober Curious

The Issue:

While non-alcoholic (NA) and low-ABV drinks are gaining popularity, many bars still offer basic mocktails or soda-based options that fail to meet the demand for sophisticated, flavorful alternatives.

The Reality:

More and more consumers are moderating their alcohol intake—whether for health reasons, personal preference, or social responsibility. These guests want more than watered-down mocktails; they’re looking for complex, flavorful drinks that still feel like a treat but without the alcohol.

How to Evolve:

Expand your NA and low-ABV offerings with creative ingredients, and don't forget to include NA or low-ABV beers and flavored seltzers that cater to both men and women. Consider infusing spices, herbs, and fresh juices to create complex, sophisticated options. Offering a well-curated NA cocktail menu not only meets growing demand but also positions your bar as forward-thinking and inclusive.

3. Speed & Convenience in Ordering: No One Wants to Wait for the Good Stuff

The Issue:

Long wait times at crowded bars can lead to frustrated customers—and lost sales. High-volume bars are particularly prone to delays, which is when service can make or break the experience.

The Reality: While customers appreciate a well-crafted cocktail, they also value efficiency—especially during peak hours. After all, no one wants to wait 20 minutes for a drink, no matter how good it is.

How to Evolve: Streamline the ordering process using mobile apps, QR codes, or digital menus that allow customers to place orders directly from their table. Pre-batching cocktails with the same high-quality ingredients as your signature drinks can also speed up service while maintaining flavor integrity. Efficiency is key, and it doesn’t have to come at the expense of quality.

4. Premiumization & Unique Ingredients: It’s About the Experience, Not the Price Tag

The Issue: While top-shelf spirits can elevate certain drinks, not every cocktail needs to be made with a rare, high-end ingredient. Sometimes, it’s the balance of flavors—not the price tag—that makes a drink memorable.

The Reality: Premium spirits have their place in luxury cocktails, but forcing them into every drink doesn’t always improve the experience. Many guests won’t notice—or even care—if their Margarita is made with $100 tequila versus a more reasonably priced one. The value of a cocktail comes from its balance, technique, and taste—not its price.

How to Evolve: Use premium spirits as an upsell option, but focus on offering great drinks made with carefully selected, high-quality mid-tier spirits. A balanced, well-crafted cocktail doesn’t need to be expensive to be impressive.

5. Over-Reliance on Classic Techniques: It’s About the Result, Not the Ritual

The Issue: Some bars are so focused on sticking to “classic” cocktail techniques that they overlook the most important part: the customer’s experience. Yes, shaking versus stirring matters—but if a guest asks for a shaken Martini, why make them feel like they’re breaking the rules?

The Reality: While technique is important, it’s the end result that counts. Your customers want a drink that tastes great and suits their preferences, not one that’s made with the “right” technique but doesn’t meet their taste.

How to Evolve: Be flexible with your methods. If a guest prefers their Martini shaken, let them have it. If they want their Old Fashioned in a coupe glass, why not? The key is delivering a drink that meets the customer’s expectations, not forcing them to conform to tradition.

6. Overly Complicated Menus: Less is More

The Issue: We've all seen cocktail menus that read like a list of ingredients for a science experiment: “A delicate blend of house-infused gentian root cordial with a whisper of saffron mist.” While these descriptions may impress fellow bartenders, they can confuse your guests and slow down the ordering process.

The Reality: Customers don’t need to be mixology experts to enjoy a cocktail. Complex descriptions may sound impressive, but they often overwhelm guests who just want to know what they’re drinking. Creativity is important, but clarity is essential.

How to Evolve: Simplify your menu descriptions. Aim for clear, approachable language that still reflects your creativity. Provide enough detail to intrigue without overwhelming. Your guests will appreciate a menu they can quickly navigate without needing a PhD in cocktail culture.

7. High-Concept Service That Slows Things Down: No One Wants to Wait for the Show

The Issue: Storytelling and theatrical presentations are fun, but when your guest has to wait 15 minutes for a cocktail because the bartender is too busy narrating the drink’s backstory, it’s time to rethink the approach.

The Reality: While immersive experiences can elevate a cocktail program, guests often value speed and efficiency—especially during busy periods. Slow service can frustrate customers, leading to lost sales and potential negative reviews.

How to Evolve: Find a balance between storytelling and efficiency. Save the dramatic presentations and long narratives for quieter times or special events. During high-volume hours, streamline service to maintain speed without sacrificing quality. Consider pre-batching some cocktails to keep things moving.

8. Not Offering Simple, Familiar Options: Don’t Forget the Classics

The Issue: Some bars dismiss basic cocktails, but sometimes your customers just want a simple, classic drink like a vodka soda or gin and tonic—not everyone is in the mood for a complex craft cocktail.

The Reality: Simple cocktails are often the backbone of a successful bar program. They’re approachable, familiar, and versatile. By offering a variety of options, you ensure that all guests feel welcome, regardless of their taste preferences.

How to Evolve: Keep a few well-crafted, classic cocktails on the menu. A solid vodka soda, gin and tonic, or Old Fashioned can go a long way in making sure everyone has a drink they can enjoy. A balanced menu ensures your bar appeals to a wide range of tastes.

Final Thoughts: Crafting the Future of Cocktail Bars

As trends in the Food & Beverage and Hospitality industries continue to evolve, the most successful bars will be those that adapt to changing customer preferences while maintaining the artistry and quality that define great mixology. It’s no longer just about perfecting cocktails—it’s about creating an experience that aligns with modern customer demands: personalization, efficiency, creativity, and inclusivity.

So, ask yourself: Are your bar practices enhancing the customer experience, or are you clinging to outdated traditions just because that’s how it’s always been done?

By embracing change and evolving to meet the demands of today’s drinkers, you can create a bar experience that’s as dynamic as the industry itself.

At the end of the day, it’s about giving your customers what they want: delicious drinks, an inviting atmosphere, and an experience that feels tailored just for them. Cheers to that! ��

Want to Learn More?

If you're looking to explore innovative trends in the adult beverage space or discover some of the best emerging brands in categories like low/non-ABV, healthy alternatives, sustainable sourcing, and more—contact us at FirstStepBeverage . We can help you evolve your beverage program and meet the needs of today’s savvy consumers.

Michael Halsey COO, First Step Beverage Co .

Capitalizing on the Rise of Low-Alcohol and Non-Alcoholic RTD Spirits: A Strategic Opportunity for Retail Executives

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 18:37:31 GMT

low-alcohol and non-alcoholic Retail Opportunity

Recent forecasts indicate that the low-alcohol and non-alcoholic segment within the ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails category is poised for significant expansion. This growth is driven by a heightened consumer focus on health, wellness, and mindful drinking. Here’s an overview of the current trends and future projections in this rapidly evolving segment:

Current Trends and Growth:

Segment Expansion: The low-alcohol and non-alcoholic RTD cocktails are expected to experience substantial growth. This trend is fueled by increasing consumer interest in healthier lifestyle choices and a broader movement towards mindful drinking. The RTD market is diversifying, incorporating a wider range of non-alcoholic and low-alcohol options.

Market Share Projections: According to recent industry reports, non-alcoholic and low-alcohol RTD cocktails could constitute approximately 20% to 30% of the total RTD market by 2028. This represents a significant increase from current levels as these beverages gain traction among consumers.

Yearly Growth Trends:

2023 to 2025: The low-alcohol and non-alcoholic segment is forecasted to see accelerated growth, with market share expected to rise from about 10% to 15% in 2023 to around 15% to 20% by 2025.
2026 to 2028: Continued expansion is anticipated, with this segment potentially reaching 20% to 30% of the RTD market by 2028, reflecting ongoing consumer trends and a broader range of product offerings.

Factors Driving Growth:

Health and Wellness: The increasing emphasis on health and wellness is prompting more consumers to seek out low-alcohol and non-alcoholic options.
Product Innovation: The availability of high-quality and innovative non-alcoholic RTD cocktails is enhancing their appeal to a broader consumer base.
Social Acceptance: The growing acceptance of mindful drinking is further driving demand for non-alcoholic beverages.

Conclusion:

The low-alcohol and non-alcoholic RTD spirits segment is set to experience significant growth in the coming years. With projections suggesting that this segment could account for 20% to 30% of the RTD market by 2028, the increasing consumer demand is a result of health trends, product innovation, and the broader acceptance of mindful drinking. This presents a substantial opportunity for retailers to align with evolving consumer preferences and capture a growing market segment.

Recommendation:

To strategically capitalize on this trend, retail procurement leadership should consider the following actions:

Expand Product Range: Broaden your inventory to include a diverse selection of low-alcohol and non-alcoholic RTD options. This will cater to a wide array of consumer preferences and enhance market appeal.
Focus on Quality: Invest in high-quality and innovative products that offer sophisticated flavors and premium ingredients. This approach will attract discerning consumers and differentiate your offerings.
Promote Awareness: Develop and execute marketing strategies that emphasize the benefits and availability of low-alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages. Educate customers on the health and lifestyle advantages of these options.
Monitor Trends: Stay abreast of market trends and evolving consumer behaviors to adapt your product offerings and maintain a competitive edge.

By aligning your retail strategy with these trends, you can effectively tap into the growing demand for low-alcohol and non-alcoholic RTD spirits, driving both customer satisfaction and business growth.

Enhance Your Procurement Strategy with First Step Beverage

First Step Beverage offers a portfolio of innovative adult beverage brands and solutions. Partnering with us allows you to access cutting-edge options that can delight your guests and give you a competitive edge by being first to market with emerging trends. Our extensive industry experience ensures that we provide vetted, high-quality recommendations backed by our reputation.

Michael Halsey

FirstStepBeverage Co / Chief Operations Officer

Resources: Market research sources Euromonitor, IWSR, Grand View Research

Reasons To Consider liquor alternatives?

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 22:03:47 GMT

Business and consumers are both discovering why they like the idea of taking another look at alternatives to traditional cocktail spirits.

One simple reason ......Many taste, look and smell like spirits!

Another reason...Tax and Fee Rates

The federal government collects approximately $1 billion per month from excise alcohol taxes on spirits, beer, and wine. Taxes on spirits are significantly higher than beer and wine at $13.50 per gallon, while beer is taxed at $18 per barrel and wine is $1.07-$3.40

per gallon. This is because spirits have higher alcohol content than the other categories.

Federal excise tax rates on beer, wine, and liquor are as follows:

Beer $18.00 per 31-gallon barrel, or $0.05 per 12-oz can
Wine $1.07 - $3.40 per gallon, or $0.21 - $0.67 per 750ml bottle, depending on alcohol content
Distilled Spirits $13.50 per proof-gallon ^† , or $2.14 per 750ml 80-proof bottle

† A proof gallon is a gallon of liquid that is 100 proof, or 50% alcohol. The tax is adjusted, depending on the percentage of alcohol of the product.

Some states like Washington has the highest spirits tax in the United States at $33.22 per gallon. This is over $10 more than the second-highest tax in the state of Oregon at $21.95. Following these two states is Virginia with $19.89, Alabama with $19.11, and Utah with $15.92.

Liquor Licenses

First Step Beverage wine-based products allow businesses and venues to serve all the popular cocktails and mixed drinks without requiring a liquor license. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional innovative products and solutions for profitable

adult beverage services.

A Wine-based liquor alternatives allow businesses and venues to serve real cocktails without a mixed beverage permit, opening new revenue opportunities and avoiding the heavier tax burdens. First Step Beverage proudly supports an extensive line of spirit alternatives, from wine-based to non-Alcoholic allowing you to craft any cocktail imaginable.

Now you can legally serve amazing cocktails with only a wine and beer permit and more profitably than ever.

The wine-based First Step Beverage product line offers retailers with Beer/Wine licenses the exciting opportunity to sell cocktail solutions using alternative alcohol. This assortment allows establishments to further meet the wants of the adult beverage

consumer while gaining a strong product margin.

Are you interested in changing the game and offering your customers something amazing?

Looking for more profitable sales?

deadmau5 partners with Coco Vodka

michaelhalsey@firststepbeverage.co (Mike Halsey) — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 22:24:19 GMT

deadmau5 (Joel Zimmerman) has announ ced that he has partnered with CoCo Vodka, The Original Hard Coconut Water™, for his first-ever liquor endorsement. The hard beverage will be available for purchase within the coming weeks.

Launched in 2019, the beverage combines real coconut water with your choice of triple-distilled vodka or premium white rum and finishes smoothly with a refreshing twist of sparkling water. A 5% ABV drink, it is different than any other spirit-based canned beverage because of the amount of coconut water used, packing the can with natural electrolytes and essential nutrients. Now available in North America throughout 31 states in the U.S. and 6 provinces in Canada with 5 products available to customers, deadmau5 is an early and exciting new celebrity partnership for the brand.

deadmau5 states, “There is something to be said about a drink in a can that tastes good. Plus they are an independent Canadian business so I like to support.”

Mark Convery, co-founder for CoCo Vodka adds, “Partnering with a worldwide icon like Joel and the deadmau5 team is surreal. Av and I are huge deadmau5 fans, and we have no doubt all the fans will equally enjoy CoCo Vodka as much as we all enjoy deadmau5’s music.”

This past November 3rd and 4th, CoCo Vodka was featured at deadmau5’ mau5hop pop-up in Denver around his headlining ‘ We Are Friends Tour’ stop at Red Rocks Amphitheatre on November 4th & 5th. Fans were able to sample the drink while checking out the unique merch items the shop was offering.

Seeking wholesale product placements-

FirstStepBeverage.co

Passion Tree Hard Seltzers is Making Unprecedented Movement in The Hard Seltzer Space

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 21:42:54 GMT

Passion Tree Hard Seltzers is Making Unprecedented Movement in The Hard Seltzer Space

Out with the old and in with "The People's Seltzer"

Passion Tree Hard Seltzers is committed to developing the perfect hard seltzer that's crafted to be lightly carbonated, 5.5% ABV, gluten-free, and infused with 100% exotic all-natural fruit flavors from around the world. Passion Tree has a goal to make a positive impact on planet earth by planting 50,000,000 million trees worldwide, so we made a promise to plant one tree for every case of Passion Tree Hard Seltzer sold.

Here is that proof:

7 weeks after Passion Tree Hard Seltzers initial launch in San Diego the brand got the approval for placement at Ralph's the largest grocery chain in Southern California.

24 hours after placement the product completely sold out at all Ralph's and retail locations, incredible feat for any big brand let alone lead by 3 young 25-year-old co-founders
July 4 ^th weekend Passion Tree out sold the top selling SKU's of White Claw® & Truly® by a wide margin at multiple Ralph's locations.

Fourth of July weekend is one high in sales for alcohol companies, especially hard seltzers. Here are some spectacular numbers around San Diego for Passions Tree's Holiday sales (if they had more cases, they would have sold out of more at each location by each only had a certain amount):

Pacific Beach Ralph's over 4 ^th of July weekend sold out! Went on to sell out 3 consecutive times
La Jolla Ralph's over 4 ^th of July weekend sold out
Ralph's near the college of SDSU over 4th of July weekend sold out

This was all the first weekend the product was placed at the Ralphs locations.

Don't miss out on following along with Passion Tree Hard Seltzer and trying their amazing product! If you're still drinking the other stuff, it's time to make the switch to Passion tree!

Interested in wholesale placements contact FirstStepBeverage.co

Sales@FirstStepBeverage.co

Fresh Vine Wine Recognized with Four 2022 Sommeliers Choice Awards

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 21:56:18 GMT

2021 Rosé, 2020 Chardonnay, 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2019 Pinot Noir are all recognized by the distinguished association of top sommeliers and on-premise wine buyers .

M INNEAPOLIS, Sept. 21, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fresh Vine Wine, Inc. (NYSE American: VINE), the premier producer of lower carb, lower sugar, and lower calorie premium wines in the United States, today announced that four of its vintage wines have received prestigious 2022 Sommeliers Choice Awards.

“We are grateful that four of our vintage wines are recipients of the prestigious Sommeliers Choice Awards for 2022,” said Jamey Whetstone, Winemaker, of Fresh Vine Wine. “This recognition builds on the critical acclaim our wines have already received from world-renowned wine critic James Suckling, highly-regarded publications such as The Tasting Panel Magazine and The Somm Journal , as well as at TEXSOM’s global wine competition. These awards affirm Fresh Vine Wines’ position as the leader in delivering a superior wine taste in a well-balanced, lower-sugar wine, offering an affordable luxury targeting the fast-growing ‘healthy living’ market.”

Fresh Vine Wine 2020 Chardonnay received a Gold 2022 Sommeliers Choice Award, with Fresh Vine Wine 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon and Fresh Vine Wine 2021 Rosé, both taking home the Silver and Pinot Noir Bronze.

The judging panel of the Sommeliers Choice Awards consists entirely of top sommeliers, on-premise wine buyers and wine directors at U.S. restaurants, bars, pubs, and clubs. Medals are awarded to wines that meet very specific judging criteria, with a goal of identifying wines that should become additions to restaurant wine lists.

Fresh Vine Wine award-winning varietals are available at www.freshvinewine.com , and most national and independent retailers nationwide, including wine.com, Total Wine & More, Food Lion, on the GoPuff app, and by the glass at True Food Kitchen.

Fresh Vine Wine's vision is to be the leading "Better For You" brand in this emerging category, capitalizing on the trend toward healthy living that is sweeping the food and beverage industry. Fresh Vine Wine's strategy is to accelerate growth in 2022 by amplifying its product offerings, actively growing distribution, educating consumers and retailers on our premium product line, and focusing on in-market retail execution and in-store samplings. Fresh Vine Wine will continue to position its core brand lineup as an affordable luxury, between $14.99-$24.99. Sauvignon Blanc and Brut Rosé Sparkling are Fresh Vine Wine's latest entry into the premium wine market.

Press contact – FreshVineWine@jonesworks.com
IR contact – Joeh@gregoryfca.com

Wholesale- Sales@FirstStepBeverage.co

About Fresh Vine Wine, Inc.

Fresh Vine Wine, Inc. (NYSE American: VINE) is a premier producer of lower carb, lower calorie premium wines in the United States, kicking off a 2022 growth plan following its IPO in mid-December 2021. Fresh Vine Wine's brand vision is to lead the emerging natural and accessible premium wine category, as health trends continue to accelerate in the US marketplace. The 2020 US wine market was a $69 billion category. Fresh Vine Wine plans to accelerate growth in 2022 by amplifying its marketing, expanding product offerings, and expanding its team. Fresh Vine Wine positions its core brand lineup as an affordable luxury, retailing between $14.99-$24.99. Fresh Vine Wine's varietals currently include Limited Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Brut Rosé Sparkling, and Rosé.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release includes forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of words such as "anticipate," "expect," "plan," "could," "may," "will," "believe," "estimate," "forecast," "goal," "project," and other words of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements address various matters including statements regarding the timing or nature of future operating or financial performance or other events. Each forward-looking statement contained in this press release is subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statement. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, among others, the Company's ability to hire additional personnel and to manage the growth of its business; the Company's reliance on its brand name, reputation and product quality; the Company's ability to adequately address increased demands that may be placed on its management, operational and production capabilities; the effectiveness of the Company's advertising and promotional activities and investments; the Company's reliance on celebrities to endorse its wines and market its brand; general competitive conditions; fluctuations in consumer demand for wine; overall decline in the health of the economy and consumer discretionary spending; the occurrence of adverse weather events, natural disasters, public health emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances that may cause delays to or interruptions in the Company's operations; risks associated with disruptions in the Company's supply chain for grapes and raw and processed materials; the impact of COVID-19 and its variants on the Company's customers, suppliers, business operations and financial results; disrupted or delayed service by the distributors the Company relies on for the distribution of its wines; the Company's ability to successfully execute its growth strategy; the Company's success in retaining or recruiting, or changes required in, its officers, key employees or directors; the Company's ability to protect its trademarks and other intellectual property rights; the Company's ability to comply with laws and regulations affecting its business, including those relating to the manufacture, sale and distribution of wine; claims, demands and lawsuits to which the Company may be subject and the risk that its insurance or indemnities coverage may not be sufficient; the Company's ability to operate, update or implement its IT systems; the Company's ability to successfully pursue strategic acquisitions and integrate acquired businesses; the Company's potential ability to obtain additional financing when and if needed; the Company's founders' significant influence over the Company; and the risks identified in the Company's other filings with the SEC. The Company cautions investors not to place considerable reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. You are encouraged to read the Company's filings with the SEC, available at www.sec.gov, for a discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date of this document, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any of these statements. The Company's business is subject to substantial risks and uncertainties, including those referenced above. Investors, potential investors, and others should give careful consideration to these risks and uncertainties.

For wholesale placement information please contact FirstStepBeverage.co

The Story of the People’s Seltzer

Sat, 22 Oct 2022 23:02:42 GMT

The Story of the People’s Seltzer

For more wholesale information about Passion Tree or their partnership with the Eden Project, where with each purchase of a case, Passion Tree plants one tree in the environmental initiative that is the first of its kind in the seltzer space.

Contact: Sales@FirstStepBeverage.co

Just Enough Wines

michaelhalsey@firststepbeverage.co (Mike Halsey) — Sat, 22 Oct 2022 18:31:19 GMT

A Quality Wine, Whenever, Wherever.

Founded In 2020, The Sustainably Minded Brand Of Just Enough Wines Was Created For People To Enjoy Anywhere, At Any Given Time, With Just About Anyone. And Though Canned Wine May Not Seem Completely Enjoyable Or Of High Quality, Jessical Hershfield, Founder And CEO Of Just Enough Wines, Wants Nothing But The Best For Her Customers.

Keeping sustainability in mind, not only does their serving size allow for less waste, but their aluminum cans are easily recyclable, therefore reducing the overall carbon footprint of shipping and producing wine. Just Enough Wines is also partnered with 1% for the Planet , meaning that 1% of their revenue goes towards environmentally friendly non-profits.

Though founded just in 2020, Just Enough Wines has garnered mass success during their short journey thus far.

Though Jessica did come up with this multi-million dollar idea, she could not have successfully pulled it off without her two business partners by her side. As soon as the idea was born, Jessica partnered up with Co-Founder and COO, Kaitlyn Lo, and Director of Winemaking for Just Enough Wines, Ross Bentley. Through all of their respective expertise, they have been able to make a canned wine company like no other — convenient, sustainable, portable, and most importantly, delicious.

Currently expanding their business outside of the West Coast to areas like New York and Florida, it is exciting to think of where their wines will end up. People will be able to take them to picnics in the park, music festivals, sporting events, camping trips, movie nights, and so much more.

Only in the beginning of their journey, it is clear that they have a long way to go. With more wines to create and more people to serve, it is nothing but positive that wherever Just Enough Wines ends up, they will be there with great success, and even greater wines.

FirstStepBeverage.co

5 reasons to drink Côtes de Provence rose in winter

michaelhalsey@firststepbeverage.co (Mike Halsey) — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 18:31:00 GMT

5 reasons to drink Côtes de Provence rose in winter

For a long time, rosé wine was only associated with summer, with beautiful days by the pool, or with barbecue evenings with friends. Today, rosé wine is becoming versatile, and can be drunk in any season, and on any occasion. Here are 5 good reasons to drink Côtes de Provence rosé in winter.

CÔTES DE PROVENCE ROSE IN WINTER: A FESTIVE AND CONVIVIAL WINE

Summer rosé wine owes its success to its festive and convivial side. It is drunk on a beautiful summer evening, with friends and family. It is precisely this festive aspect that has transformed it over the years into a wine for all seasons, because, let's face it, we don't wait for summer to celebrate and enjoy the people we love.

The Côtes de Provence rosé can therefore be enjoyed in winter, with more substantial dishes, for happy events, or warm winter evenings surrounded by loved ones.

A WINE OF OCCASION AS MUCH AS OF SEASON

A WIDE RANGE OF FLAVOURS TO SUIT ALL TASTES

Beyond the food/wine pairing, Côtes de Provence rosé has the advantage of being able to seduce many palates. Thanks to its great diversity of aromas, colours and intensities, rosé wine offers a multitude of varieties. Thus, everyone can find a rosé wine that suits his or her tastes. Sweet, tannic, dry, mellow, or fruity, all nuances are available with rosé wines. This diversity also makes rosé wines suitable for all occasions.

WHETHER DRUNK ALONE OR WITH FOOD, ROSÉ WINE IS BEST ENJOYED FOR ITS TASTE

Finally, unlike white and red wines, which accompany a meal or a dish, rosé wine is chosen above all for its taste. It can therefore be drunk on its own, and does not necessarily need to be accompanied by food to be appreciated. This makes it an exceptional wine, which pleases for its taste and stands on its own.

You haven't tried rosé wine in winter yet? Let yourself be seduced by a Château de Berne rosé by the fireplace, or as an accompaniment to a comforting dish. A guaranteed delight!

‘COCKTAILS & CONNECTIONS’ VS ‘ALCOHOL & INTERACTIONS’

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 20:48:29 GMT

‘COCKTAILS & CONNECTIONS’ VS ‘ALCOHO L & INTERACTIONS’

Cocktails vs. Alcohol:

Here’s the thing. Personally, I’ve never craved or even really liked alcohol. I love a great cocktail, served in a beautiful glass. The liquid – an alchemy of ingredients from around the world that have come together, all for me in that moment. And I love the social interaction. I love being in a cool bar. With interesting people. Talking about common interests and shared experiences.

The alcohol, as I saw it, was a necessary fuel for all of that.

And, in my mind, when my glass was empty, that meant the party was over. Time to pay the bill and go home. But I didn’t want the party to be over. I was having fun. I was making “connections”. And it was all a credit to the alcohol. Or so I thought. So I’d order another drink. And the party went on.

Connections vs Interactions:

I always rationalized the effects of the alcohol – of being drunk – by pointing to the “connections” I made while drinking. I believed that these “deep meaningful” conversations I was having were really establishing relationships. With employees, colleagues, clients, friends and, often times, with complete strangers.

But were they? As time went on, I started to see that those ‘deep, prolific, meaningful’ conversations we were having – seven or eight cocktails in – were just frenetic, stream of consciousness collages of drunken story telling. Which, if I’m honest, has its place but shouldn’t be confused with real human connection.

I loved a great cocktail. I really valued making connections with people. But I fooled myself into thinking that the alcohol and the fog of interactions while drunk were the same as having a couple cocktails and making real connections.

The “ah ha” month:

Like so many of us, I lived the ups and downs of constant regret of having drank too much the night before. The effects of the alcohol took my energy for the next day. Stole my creativity. And occasionally damaged my reputation.

But a few nights later, back we were.

And then came the grand experiment. Stop drinking for a month. I’d actually never done it before because there was always a ‘special occasion’ that just wouldn’t be special if I didn’t have a cocktail in hand. Hey, it’s Flag Day….

One month turned to two, turned to four, turned to six. And, here’s the thing… My connections with people didn’t dissipate. They deepened. I was more present. More able to think about how that person was feeling. I asked more questions (vs just blurting-out the next funny story).

We’ve been conditioned to believe that it’s the alcohol that drives our ability to be social, to make connections, to have a great time. It’s simply not true.

And, to be clear, I’ve started drinking again. But I’ve found a good balance for me. Over the course of a night, a couple of cocktails, mixed with a few glasses of something non-alcoholic. And these days, I appreciate an alcoholic drink so much more. In true moderation. I look at the glass. I sip more slowly. I appreciate.

And, as for my love of a great cocktail, it made me wonder, ‘what if cocktails could GIVE vs. TAKE’? What if you could have that same cocktail experience – the thoughtful ingredients from around the world that are melded together in beautiful ways, all for you, all for that moment but in a form that elevates and brings healthy benefits vs. breaking you down?

So, after 20+ years in the advertising business and countless mistakes in my search for the right balance in my social life, I’ve stepped out of the comfort of the business that I know so well and, at the age of 46, have started a new career. I’ve founded The Free Spirits Company.

Our mission is to give people more options when ‘drinking’. So we’ve dedicated our company to crafting complex, hand-crafted non-alcoholic versions of the spirits that so many of us love to drink. Because living alcohol free for the moment, the month or longer shouldn’t mean sacrificing the quality of your cocktail experience.

I’m beyond excited for you all to try our spirits and am wildly grateful to have you along on this journey.

Live free. Drink free.

Milan

Founder & CEO | The Free Spirits Company, LLC

Free Spirits. The Good Spirit of Great Cocktails.

CoCo Vodka wins Best in Class

michaelhalsey@firststepbeverage.co (Mike Halsey) — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 01:34:51 GMT

CoCo Vodka wins Best in Class

Officially the best Vodka RTD of 2022

We need your help spreading the word! CoCo Vodka Original won Best in Class this month at the finals of the San Francisco World Spirit Competition, the largest spirit competition in the world!

Our biggest news yet

CoCo beat out hundreds of other brands to win Best Vodka RTD of 2022, besting brands like Cutwater, CANTEEN, Deep Eddy, and High Noon.

CoCo Vodka and CoCo Rum both took home medals at the largest spirits competition in the world! Over 5000 spirits and RTDs were entered and evaluated by 70 judges. There were more RTDs entered this year than ever before, meaning the competition was extremely fierce. CoCo Vodka Original won Double Gold, and CoCo Rum took home Silver!

Its time to try CoCo Vodka!!

Research Finds Adding CBD to Hard Seltzer Boosts Sales

michaelhalsey@firststepbeverage.co (Mike Halsey) — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 00:59:03 GMT

Research Finds Adding CBD to Hard Seltzer Boosts Sales

A new study of U.S. hard seltzer drinkers revealed growth opportunities still remain for one of the adult beverage industry’s trendiest categories. Veylinx, a consumer insights platform that uses behavioral research to predict purchasing habits, studied eight hard seltzer brands, and eight added benefits to determine which potential product innovations consumers value most, and which will impact their willingness to pay.

According to findings, nearly all added benefits tested (high alcohol, low alcohol, vitamins, kombucha, immunity, energy, sustainable packaging and CBD) drove greater purchase interest from consumers. The study found that adding CBD boosted demand by 12% on average, while enhancing the drinks with kombucha lowered demand by an average of 6%.

“We wanted to study the hard seltzer category because it has disrupted the alcoholic beverage space so profoundly in such a short time,” said Anouar El Haji, CEO of Veylinx, in a release. “There are widely divergent predictions about if and how it will sustain its tremendous growth, so we wanted to shed light on which brands and innovations are best positioned for the future.”

The findings showed that all brands enjoy a positive product perception across multiple dimensions, including credibility, premium-ness, and uniqueness, signaling strong potential for additional growth, says Veylinx.

CBD-infused, energy-boosting, and high-alcohol versions performed well across most brands, and while market leader White Claw commanded the highest demand score, potential product line extensions actually drove less demand for the brand, the study finds. Every other brand tested had at least one added benefit that lifted demand.

Consumers drink hard seltzer for its refreshing taste, not because it’s healthier, notes Veylinx. “Refreshing taste” was listed by a majority of respondents (54%) as a primary purchase driver.

Somewhat surprisingly, the perceived healthfulness of seltzers compared to other alcoholic beverages was not an important demand driver (only selected by 22% of participants).

The study further finds that nearly 75% of respondents consume hard seltzer at home, and regional preferences vary. Consumer demand for individual brands differed across regions.

The CBD-infused product variation drove the greatest purchase interest in the Northeast, South and Midwest. The most popular product variation in the West proved to be sustainable packaging.

The study was conducted in July and August 2021 among 2,702 U.S. consumers over the age of 21.

PASSION TREE HARD SELTZER

When it comes to global responsibility, this brand has taken it to a completely new level.

Read all about their Passion and their Promise below to learn how Passion Tree Hard Seltzer and their consumers are making a difference one case at a time.

Over 50% of CBD consumers are Baby Boomers and Gen-Xers

michaelhalsey@firststepbeverage.co (Mike Halsey) — Tue, 27 Sep 2022 23:58:42 GMT

50% o f CBD users are Baby Boomers and Gen X-ers

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Compelling Reasons To Add GARNICHE Dehydrated Fruit To Your Cocktails

michaelhalsey@firststepbeverage.co (Mike Halsey) — Tue, 27 Sep 2022 22:12:46 GMT

People always ask us “why give up everything to get into the dehydrated fruit business?”
These are my raisins-

Compelling Reasons To Add GARNICHE

Dehydrated Fruit To Your Cocktails

Garniche Saves You Prep Time

That’s right, instead of cutting and peeling (often adding an extra 10-20 seconds to your prep time), you get to reach, grab, and elegantly place.

Over the long run, that’s enough extra time to turn a busy shift from an un-happy hour to a relaxed and controlled experience for yourself, and your customers.

You’ll have more free time to keep these conversations going, help out your teammates, and generally look like a pro.

Garniche Reduces Waste By Ensuring That

Every Part Of The Fruit Gets Used

Let’s use lime and lemon wheels, for example…

I’ve seen many bartenders waste a good chunk of the fruit on either side of their citrus wheels.

While the fruit wastage adds up over a shift, each individual piece isn’t quite big enough to juice, or to turn into another garnish.

They Look Beautiful

Ever heard the expression ‘people drink with their eyes’?

It’s true – the better your cocktails look, the more your customers will enjoy them.

Dehydrated Cocktail Garnishes Last A Very Long Time

Prepping garnishes ahead of a shift is a no-brainer for saving time –

but can you nail down the exact amount you’re going to use, every time? If so, you’re basically Nostradamus.
There are two outcomes when you pre-prep your garnishes: you underestimate, and get caught short-handed –

usually in the middle of the unexpected rush that caused you to underestimate in the first place.
Or, you overestimate –

and either end up with soggy (or dried out) citrus in your customer’s glass, and/or a compost full of expensive fruit. It’s not just the fruit itself –

it’s the labor that went into cutting, storing, and tossing it.
Garniche dehydrated fruits are certified for consumption and shelf stable 6-8 months.

In ambient temperature or 12 months if stored in 35-45 degree temperature.

Dehydrated Cocktail Garnishes

Let You Control Cost-Per-Garnish

Good bartenders are pretty darned close to perfect humans – but they’re still not machines.

One person’s cuts are inevitably thicker or thinner than the next.

That makes it next to impossible to accurately assign a cost-per-garnish amount to your finished drinks.
When you buy Garniche dehydrated fruits, you will know the ‘average contents’.

This will give you the ability to nail down your per-unit costing, and manage your inventory with ease.

Dehydrated Citrus Holds

Aromatics More Effectively

When you strip the water out of anything, it usually intensifies the remaining ingredients.

Garniche dehydrated fruits are no different.
We’re talking about aromas, the increased aromas that they impart can be used to a bartender’s advantage.

(And they are still complet ely edible, just in case an overenthusiastic patron decides to chow down on one.)
Garniche dehydrated fruits have a ton of benefits – with a really wide range of applications.

There’s so much to learn about which fruits and vegetables you can dehydrate, and the best ways to use them.

If your curiosity has been piqued, check out the Link –

We’ll up your bar game, whether you’re a home enthusiast or aspiring professional.

Don't call me a Mocktail

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 21:32:39 GMT

DON'T CALL IT A MOCKTAIL......Please

Indulge me, as the thoughts conveyed in this post rank only slightly more important in the grand scheme of things than debating which Kardashian sister is best. (It’s Khloe.)

I love a great cocktail. But there’s nothing I dislike more than the idea of a “mocktail”.

A cocktail is an expression of creativity. Of originality. Of precision. A great cocktail is a bold, complex, perfectly balanced work of liquid culinary art, inviting your lips to an impossibly beautiful glass.

A mocktail is a sweet, pink imposter, sitting in a hurricane glass with whipped cream and sparklers.

A cocktail is Sean Connery. A mocktail is Timothy Dalton. (Prove me wrong)
A cocktail is Mayonnaise. A mocktail is Miracle Whip.
A cocktail is Gene Wilder. A mocktail is Johnny Depp.

Sure, sure, we’re all trying to cut back on alcohol these days. Which is great. But ordering from the “mocktails” section of a menu is like having to buy your pants in the Big & Tall section*. You don’t want to be there.

So yes, mocktails are “less than”. They’re trying to be something they’re not. They’re all pomp and circumstance with no real substance. And when I say “substance”, I don’t mean alcohol.

Cocktails made without alcohol can – and should be – every bit as delicious, complex and exciting as a cocktail with alcohol.

So next time you want a cocktail, just without the alcohol, earn some points with the bartender by asking for a Free Spirited cocktail Or even just an NA cocktail. You’ll respect yourself in the morning.

*Written from years of experience in the Big & Tall section.

MILAN’S TOP 3 FAVORITE FREE SPIRITED COCKTAILS:

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People always ask us “why give up everything to get into the dehydrated fruit business?”
These are my raisins-