Page 4 – The Fresh Toast

The Strongest Summer Cocktails

Anthony Washington

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June 13, 2025

Summer is time to kick back and have fun – and here are the potent cocktails add to the mix!

Alcohol consumption tends to increase during the summer months. This is often attributed to increased socializing, outdoor activities, and the association of alcohol with summer celebrations like barbecues and beach days. So when the sun blazes and you need a drink with serious punch, only the boldest cocktails will do. From tiki classics to modern mixes, these are the strongest summer cocktails which are not just refreshing—they pack a serious kick.

Zombie

Invented in 1934 by Donn Beach, the Zombie was crafted to cure hangovers—ironically with a wallop of alcohol. It’s a tiki icon known for sneaking up on unsuspecting drinkers.

Ingredients

1 ½ oz light rum
1 ½ oz dark rum
1 oz overproof rum
¾ oz lime juice
½ oz falernum
½ oz grenadine
Dash bitters

Create

Shake all ingredients (except the overproof rum) with ice
Strain into a tall glass filled with crushed ice
Float the overproof rum on top
Garnish with mint and fruit
Sip slowly—this one hits hard

Long Island Iced Tea

Allegedly born in the 1970s in Long Island, New York, this drink was designed to look like iced tea—but sneak in a heavy mix of spirits.

Ingredients

½ oz vodka
½ oz gin
½ oz white rum
½ oz tequila
½ oz triple sec
1 oz lemon juice
1 oz simple syrup
Splash of cola

Create

Shake all spirits, lemon juice, and syrup with ice
Pour into a highball glass
Top with cola
Garnish with a lemon wedge
Tastes light, but hits like a truck

The Sazerac

One of America’s oldest cocktails, the Sazerac was first crafted in 19th-century New Orleans, originally using cognac before switching to rye whiskey.

2 oz rye whiskey
1 sugar cube
2 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
Absinthe rinse
Lemon twist

Create

Rinse a chilled glass with absinthe, then discard
Muddle the sugar and bitters in a mixing glass
Add rye and ice, and stir until chilled
Strain into the prepared glass
Garnish with a lemon twist
It’s refined, but don’t be fooled—it’s potent

RELATED: Rainy Weather Cocktails

Mai Tai

Invented in 1944 by Victor Bergeron (Trader Vic), the Mai Tai became a tiki staple and spread globally thanks to its tropical flair.

Ingredients

1 oz light rum
1 oz dark rum
½ oz orange curaçao
½ oz lime juice
¼ oz orgeat syrup
¼ oz simple syrup

Create

Shake all ingredients with ice
Strain into an old-fashioned glass filled with crushed ice
Garnish with lime and mint

Pain Killer

History: First served at the Soggy Dollar Bar in the British Virgin Islands in the 1970s, it’s a rich, rum-heavy tropical delight. And did you know, Bacardi promotes August as “Rum Month,” aligning it with peak summer party season.

Ingredients

2 oz dark rum
4 oz pineapple juice
1 oz orange juice
1 oz cream of coconut

Create

Shake with ice
Pour into a tall glass
Top with grated nutmeg and garnish with pineapple or orange slice.

Is A Dab For Developers Still A Thing

Terry Hacienda

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June 12, 2025

0

It seems the world revolves around tech – but does a green plant make it easier for developers?

In the high-stakes, high-concentration world of software development, focus is currency. So is a dab for developers still a thing? A growing subset of programmers, cannabis has become an unlikely coding companion. A recent study posted to arXiv.org reveals that 18% of surveyed software developers use cannabis at least once a month to help them “get into a programming zone,” while 35% have tried it at some point while coding.

“It’s not about getting high—it’s about getting aligned,” says Mike, a full-stack engineer at a startup in Boulder, Colorado. He microdoses THC edibles during evening coding sessions. “I find that I’m better at thinking laterally. If I’m stuck on a function, cannabis sometimes helps me approach it differently, like a soft mental rotation.”

The arXiv study suggests this is not uncommon. Developers cited reasons ranging from enhanced concentration and creativity to reduced coding anxiety. Others described a more “immersive” experience—tuning out distractions and hyper-focusing on logic puzzles and algorithmic flow.

But not all agree. “Cannabis makes me too foggy for real problem-solving,” says Janelle, a senior developer at a cybersecurity firm. “It’s a myth that weed makes you a better programmer. It might feel good, but you’re probably introducing bugs.” She’s also concerned about how normalization could muddy professional expectations in already remote-friendly tech workplaces.

Workplace policies, meanwhile, are still catching up. While cannabis is legal in many states, most companies—especially those dealing with sensitive data or government contracts—maintain strict no-use policies. Random drug testing still exists, and while off-hours use might be tolerated, developers tread a fine line.

“There’s no real protocol,” says Arun, a DevOps engineer and manager. “Is it the same as a glass of wine after work, or is it a performance risk? Legally and culturally, we’re still in limbo.”

That limbo hasn’t stopped some communities from embracing the trend. Online forums and subreddits like r/trees and r/ProgrammerHumor regularly share weed-and-code memes and productivity tips, even jokingly referring to sessions as “THCoding.”

Ultimately, the intersection of cannabis and code reflects tech culture’s evolving views on productivity, wellness, and neurodiversity. For some developers, decoding with a dab isn’t rebellion—it’s a workflow.

As one Redditor quipped: “Sober, I fix bugs. High, I find the ones I didn’t know existed.“

Guess Who Is Cannabis’s Cousin

Sarah Johns

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June 11, 2025

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Family trees can be fun and challenging, so guess who is cannabis’s cousin?

Families can be complicated. While the imagine of joyful family gatherings, holidays together and family fun time abound, there is a darker side of competition, upstaging and flat our drama. Considering the news, can you guess who is cannabis’s cousin? It is beer, who is providing a California sober alternative to the old stand by beer. Beer, which is the 3rd most popular drink behind water and tea, is family with the green plant.

Cannabis and beer are closely related through their shared botanical lineage, particularly their connection to hops. Both cannabis (Cannabis sativa) and hops (Humulus lupulus) belong to the Cannabaceae family, a small group of flowering plants that includes just a handful of genera. Despite their different uses—one for psychoactive and medicinal effects, the other for brewing and flavoring beer—these two plants have significant genetic and chemical similarities that have earned them the title of “botanical cousins.”

The most obvious connection between cannabis and hops lies in their production of terpenes, the aromatic compounds responsible for the distinctive scents and flavors of both plants. Terpenes like myrcene, humulene, and caryophyllene are found in high concentrations in both cannabis and hops, contributing to the pungent, skunky, piney, or citrusy aromas familiar to beer enthusiasts and cannabis users alike. These terpenes also have biological effects, including anti-inflammatory and calming properties, which are being studied for therapeutic applications.

From a genetic standpoint, cannabis and hops share significant portions of their DNA. A 2019 study that sequenced the hop genome found substantial overlap with cannabis genes, particularly in the pathways that produce terpenes and other secondary metabolites. This shared biochemical machinery explains why certain craft beers, especially those in the India Pale Ale (IPA) category, can have aromas that strongly resemble cannabis—even without any cannabis-derived ingredients.

Historically, the cultivation of both plants has followed parallel paths. Each has been selectively bred for specific traits: hops for bitterness and aroma in brewing, cannabis for cannabinoid content like THC and CBD. Breeders in both industries have capitalized on terpene profiles to cater to evolving consumer tastes, whether in the form of a hazy, tropical IPA or a fruity, high-terpene cannabis strain.

In recent years, the cultural and commercial overlap between cannabis and craft beer has grown. Some breweries experiment with cannabis terpenes or even non-psychoactive hemp to create hybrid beverages that blend the worlds of beer and weed. While THC-infused beers remain regulated and mostly unavailable in many markets, the scientific and sensory connections between hops and cannabis continue to inspire innovation and collaboration.

Ultimately, the kinship between cannabis and hops is more than skin deep. It’s rooted in biology, expressed in aroma and flavor, and increasingly shaping the future of both industries through genetics, craft, and culture.

Is Cannabis Part Of Memorial Day’s Beer Sales Drop

Anthony Washington

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June 11, 2025

0

Is Cannabis Part Of Memorial Day’s Beer Sales Drop

The first big holiday party weekend of the summer and beer didn’t make the biggest splash…did a green plant figure in to the issue?

Beer is at the heart of Memorial Day celebrations—a crisp, refreshing companion to beach days, backyard BBQs, and gatherings with friends and family. It is in the top drivers to alcohol sales. But this year, a flat holiday weekend occurred amid long-running concerns over beer’s decline. Is cannabis part of Memorial Day’s beer sales drop? Over the 2025 Memorial Day weekend, beer sales underwhelmed expectations, according to a Goldman Sachs survey of roughly 50 distributors covering nearly half of U.S. alcohol retailers.

Among major brands, Heineken showed the sharpest decline, with 66% of distributors reporting lower sales than last year. Bud Light, Corona Extra, and Miller Lite also posted year-over-year drops, while select brands like ABI, Pacifico, and Twisted Tea bucked the trend with modest gains. Distributors largely pointed to persistent inflation, tariff worries, shifting consumer taste toward spirits or more “sophisticated” drinks, and reduced alcohol consumption among Millennials and Gen Z—which aligns with Gallup data showing only 62% of 18–34‑year-olds reported drinking alcohol from 2021–2023, compared to 72% two decades ago.

In Canada, where adult-use cannabis has been legal since 2018, beer sales volumes shrank sharply: an immediate drop of 96 hectolitres per 100,000 population, with an ongoing monthly fall worth 136 hectolitres—a trend linked with increased cannabis spending . Statistics Canada data for 2023/24 showed beer volume fell 4.5%, the steepest yearly decline since tracking began in 1949. A specific Nova Scotia study found a 2.2% drop right after legalization, with sustained lower sales afterward.

A Bernstein‑cited Numerator survey indicated 36% of cannabis‑using drinkers now drink less alcohol, and almost half say they’ve replaced some alcohol with cannabis . Moreover, cannabis users have shown a stronger preference to forgo beer over other alcohol types.

Jon Taffer, host of Bar Rescue, asserts no doubt exists that cannabis‑infused beverages are altering drinking habits in the U.S.: “It’s no question cannabis is affecting the spirits industry,” with CBD drinks projected to grow from $5.3 billion in 2021 to $16 billion by 2026.

But cannabis isn’t the sole factor. Rising health consciousness—including trends like “Dry January”—and new warnings linking alcohol to cancer are pushing consumers toward lower-alcohol or alcohol-free options. Meanwhile, economic pressures (inflation, tariff concerns, tight household budgets) persist. Adding strategic shifts from younger generations and innovations in non-alcoholic drinks, the drinking landscape is clearly evolving.

For beer brands, the path forward lies in diversification—expanding non‑alcoholic lines and tapping into cannabis‑adjacent markets. Heineken and Constellation Brands have already made early moves, while craft breweries explore cannabis-infused variants. Meanwhile, cannabis companies like Tilray are snapping up craft breweries to leverage distribution networks and position for future crossover products.

Cannabis isn’t the only culprit—but growing evidence suggests a meaningful portion of consumers are replacing beers with cannabis products or cannabis-infused drinks. As both industries innovate, beer brands that adapt—by offering alcohol-free options or partnering with cannabis—will have a better chance at regaining relevance in a changing marketplace.

Delicious And Easy Cannabis Mocktails

Anthony Washington

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June 10, 2025

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This delicious and intoxicating marijuana mocktails are perfect for the work week, a fun weekend of Sunday brunch – and no hangover!

Mocktails—non-alcoholic mixed drinks—have been around in some form for over a century, but they started becoming a distinct “thing” in the mid-to-late 20th century, and their popularity has surged again in recent years. revival began as wellness culture grew and consumers demanded sophisticated, alcohol-free options. Modern mocktails now use complex flavors, fresh ingredients, and sometimes adaptogenic or cannabis-infused components. They provide the fun of cocktails without the aftereffects or a hangover. Here are four delicious and easy cannabis mocktails you can create at home.

Cannabis-infused beverages are a refreshing and creative way to enjoy the effects of THC or CBD without the hangover that alcohol brings. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or hosting a dinner party, these cannabis mocktails offer a flavorful, elevated alternative. Here are four of the best cannabis mocktails you can easily make at home.

Canna-Citrus Spritz
This vibrant drink blends citrus and herbal notes for a crisp, uplifting experience. Mix fresh orange and grapefruit juice with a splash of sparkling water, then add a THC or CBD tincture of your choice. Garnish with rosemary and a slice of citrus for a sunny, sophisticated twist.

Herbal Highball
For a more grounded, relaxing option, try an Herbal Highball. Start with chilled green tea, add muddled cucumber and mint, and stir in a dose of cannabis tincture or a cannabis-infused syrup. Pour over ice and top with soda water. The result is a spa-like drink that soothes and refreshes.

Mango Jalapeño Cooler
This spicy-sweet mocktail is perfect for adventurous palates. Combine mango nectar, lime juice, and a slice of fresh jalapeño. Add your cannabis infusion (CBD is great here for a calming effect), shake with ice, and strain into a glass. Garnish with a chili-salt rim or a slice of mango.

Lavender Lemonade Lift
Ideal for winding down in the evening, this calming blend starts with fresh lemonade and a dash of lavender syrup. Add a low-dose cannabis tincture and shake over ice. Serve chilled with a sprig of lavender or lemon wheel for an aromatic touch.

After a long Monday or a fun Sunday brunch, these flavor rich fun drinks can make any event festive.

The Best Cannabis-Friendly Destinations for 35–50-Year-Olds

Anthony Washington

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June 10, 2025

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The Best Cannabis-Friendly Destinations for 35–50-Year-Olds

Travel is still key part of many people’s lives…so here are the best for those who want to consume also!

Travel is still very popular among individuals aged 35-50, particularly those in Generation X. Cannabis tourism is no longer just for twenty-something backpackers or counterculture festivals. More adults aged 35 to 50 are embracing the plant for wellness, recreation, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re rekindling a youthful curiosity or adding a relaxing element to your travels, these destinations offer a mature, sophisticated cannabis experience tailored to grown-up tastes.

Vancouver, Canada

Canada’s west coast gem combines stunning natural beauty with a progressive cannabis culture. Legal since 2018, cannabis in Vancouver is integrated into daily life. Visitors can explore boutique dispensaries like Village Bloomery, offering curated products and knowledgeable staff. Pair your cannabis experience with serene moments at Stanley Park or a scenic ferry ride to Vancouver Island. The city’s laid-back, wellness-driven vibe resonates with seasoned travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

A classic for a reason, Amsterdam remains one of the most iconic cannabis destinations. While the city is transitioning toward more responsible tourism, its famed “coffeeshops” continue to offer unique cannabis experiences. For older travelers, this is a chance to appreciate the historical and cultural legacy of cannabis freedom. Beyond the buzz, Amsterdam offers world-class museums, canal cruises, and a thriving culinary scene—perfect for a cultured high.

Portland, Oregon

Portland offers a hip yet grounded atmosphere that appeals to adults with a taste for artisanal and local experiences. With recreational cannabis legal since 2015, the city boasts a robust market with top-tier edibles, tinctures, and strains. Many dispensaries offer wellness consultations, and cannabis-friendly yoga, painting classes, and guided hikes are easy to find. Portland’s mix of nature, food, and urban quirk creates a well-rounded cannabis retreat.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona has become a surprising hotspot for cannabis clubs, particularly appealing to the 35–50 crowd seeking discretion and community. These private clubs require membership but offer a cozy, social environment for consumption. Spain’s relaxed attitude toward personal cannabis use makes it an intriguing destination, and the city’s mix of Mediterranean charm, architecture, and gastronomy makes any visit unforgettable.

Denver, Colorado

As one of the first U.S. cities to legalize recreational cannabis, Denver remains a leader in cannabis tourism. Mature travelers will find everything from cooking classes and infused dining to cannabis spas and educational tours. The nearby Rockies add a stunning backdrop for those seeking high-altitude highs.

For adults aged 35 to 50, cannabis travel isn’t about partying—it’s about savoring. Whether it’s a relaxing smoke by the sea, a museum trip post-edible, or a wellness retreat with CBD massage, these destinations offer elevated experiences that match a seasoned lifestyle.

Are Vegans Taking Over The World

Sarah Johns

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June 9, 2025

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From social media memes to comments in restaurants, it seems they are multiplying in leaps and bounds…but are truly a huge amount of vegans?

if you look at social memes, you would think vegans are taking over the world…but is it true? Significant mainstream popularity and recognition arrived in the 2010s and beyond. While the term “vegan” was coined in 1944, it took several decades for the concept to become widely known and embraced as a lifestyle choice. A 2023 Gallup poll found that 1% of U.S. adults identify as vegan, a figure that has remained relatively stable over time. A 2020 survey reported that 4.6% of Canadians identified as vegan, but more recent data from the Agri-Food Analytics Lab at Dalhousie University (Spring 2025) shows this figure has dropped to about 3%.

Over the past decade, veganism has shifted from a niche lifestyle to a mainstream dietary consideration. While its meteoric rise has slowed somewhat, veganism is still present — particularly in urban centers, among younger demographics, and in environmentally conscious communities. However, its growth is now more incremental than explosive, and it’s facing challenges in maintaining momentum among the broader general public.

Recent surveys show while the percentage of people identifying as vegan has plateaued in some regions, interest in plant-based eating continues to rise. Many consumers are adopting flexitarian diets — reducing meat and dairy intake without fully committing to veganism. This broader shift toward plant-based eating has arguably had a larger cultural and economic impact than the strict vegan label alone.

The motivations behind veganism remain strong: climate concerns, animal welfare, and health benefits. But cost, accessibility, and taste remain key barriers for many. As food inflation continues and plant-based alternatives often carry a premium price tag, some consumers have scaled back. Still, plant-based options are no longer fringe; they are now mainstream — even if total vegan adoption lags.

Fast food chains initially raced to capitalize on the plant-based trend. From Burger King’s Impossible Whopper to McDonald’s McPlant, major brands tested meatless products. However, the follow-through has been mixed. Some items have been discontinued or scaled back due to lackluster demand, especially in less urban or conservative markets.

That said, the fast food sector hasn’t turned its back on veganism. Chains like Taco Bell, Chipotle, and Starbucks continue to expand or refine their plant-based offerings. Internationally, especially in parts of Europe and Asia, vegan fast food menus are growing faster than in the U.S.

While the initial novelty may have worn off, veganism is evolving from trend to staple. The fast food industry’s response reflects this nuance — not a wholesale embrace, but a strategic, location-based rollout. For the general public, full veganism remains a minority choice, but the broader shift toward plant-based eating continues to influence food culture, menus, and supply chains alike.

As sustainability and health remain top-of-mind for consumers, veganism — in full or in part — is here to stay, even if it no longer dominates headlines.

Alcohol And Cannabis Consumer Behavior Evolving

Anthony Washington

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June 9, 2025

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Alcohol And Cannabis Consumer Behavior Evolving

Their is a new wave of behavior around drinking in public which could have a major impact on the alcohol and cannabis industry.

In bars across the country, a subtle shift is underway: younger patrons, especially Gen Z and Zillennials, are increasingly saying no thanks to opening a tab. It’s not about being antisocial—it’s about financial control, digital habits, and a shifting relationship with nightlife. The younger generation is increasingly turning away from alcohol. A portion are favoring marijuana for relaxation and socializing. Health consciousness, mental wellness, and shifting cultural norms drive this trend.

Unlike older generations who were more comfortable running a tab and settling up at the end of the night, Gen Z and Zillennials are hyper-aware of where their money is going in real-time. Growing up in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis and amid rising costs of living, this generation approaches spending with caution. Mobile banking, budgeting apps, and real-time transaction alerts have made them more vigilant. Opening a bar tab? That’s an invitation to overspend.

There’s also the trust factor. Horror stories of mystery charges, lost credit cards, or bars adding gratuities without consent have circulated widely on TikTok and Reddit. Many in this demographic prefer to pay per drink or use digital wallets like Apple Pay or Venmo, minimizing risk and maximizing transparency.

Technology plays a role too. While bar tabs require handing over a physical credit card—something that feels outdated to a smartphone-native generation—Gen Z prefers the immediacy and security of tapping a phone or using a QR code. Bars that still rely on old-school POS systems may seem out of step.

Culturally, going out doesn’t necessarily mean bingeing at a bar anymore. Many younger adults are opting for sober-curious lifestyles or limiting alcohol consumption, and when they do drink, they prefer to keep things low-key and affordable. Also, they see xannabis is seen as a safer, more mindful alternative, aligning with their preference for personalized, low-risk experiences over traditional, high-impact substances like alcohol.

For bar owners, this trend is a wake-up call. Offering easy, transparent, and tech-forward payment options—like mobile ordering and contactless checkout—can help retain Gen Z patrons. Those who resist these shifts risk alienating a generation that values financial autonomy over tradition.

The bottom line? For Gen Z and Zillennials, closing out a tab one drink at a time isn’t just practical—it’s personal.

Fun Things To Do After Consuming Marijuana

Anthony Washington

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May 30, 2025

0

Fun Things To Do After Consuming Marijuana

Sometimes you just want to cut loose and laugh – here are some suggestion for when you consume

Let’s be real—being high can turn even the most mundane activity into a full-blown adventure. Whether you’re sparking up alone or vibing with your crew, there’s something magical (and hilarious) about the way weed makes everything 10x funnier. If you’re looking for ways to lean into the giggles and good vibes, here are some tried-and-true stoner fun things to do after consuming marijuana which will make you belly laugh.

RELATED: How Hemp Helps You Sleep

Watch Weirdly Specific YouTube Videos

You haven’t lived until you’ve watched a 20-minute deep dive on why Shrek is secretly a cinematic masterpiece—or a guy restoring rusty knives in silence. The weirder and more niche, the better. Bonus points if you’re watching with friends and everyone has different commentary.

Play “High Charades”

Take classic charades, but add the confusion of being high. Someone inevitably ends up acting out a pineapple or accidentally miming their entire life story. It’s chaotic. It’s absurd. It’s comedy gold.

Cook Something You Definitely Shouldn’t Be Cooking

Think: grilled cheese with Doritos, marshmallows, and hot sauce. The high kitchen is a lawless place, where flavor profiles are made up and regrets come later. Just remember to document your “creations”—because your sober self won’t believe it.

Go on a Deep Dive into Random Wikipedia Pages

Start with “platypus,” end up at “the history of vending machines in Japan.” Reading while high becomes a journey through the most bizarre corners of human knowledge. You’ll be smarter? Maybe. Entertained? Definitely.

Try to Beat a Kids’ Puzzle Game

Bust out Connect 4, Jenga, or even those weird logic puzzles meant for ages 6–10. You’ll either feel like a genius or realize you’ve been staring at a Rubik’s cube for 45 minutes. Either way, it’s hilarious.

Narrate Life Like a Nature Documentary

Turn your living room into a National Geographic special. Watch your roommate forage in the kitchen like a wild animal. Add a British accent. “Here, we observe the rare species known as ‘Chad’ in his natural habitat… the snack cabinet.”

Listen to a Song That’s Just… Strange

Find the weirdest song you can—something with yodeling or heavy theremin use. Then sit back, close your eyes, and let the confusion wash over you. It’s like going on an intergalactic voyage in your brain.

Being high isn’t just about chilling—it’s about laughing so hard your abs hurt and making memories that are somehow both chaotic and wholesome. Just remember: stay safe, stay hydrated, and never underestimate the comedic power of a banana

The New Micro Cocktail Trend

Anthony Washington

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May 30, 2025

0

The drinks world has been shaken with the rise of the new micro cocktail trend.

The precise origin of the cocktail is debated, but most historians agree that the first widely recognized cocktail was the Sazerac, created in New Orleans in the mid-1800s. The first documented use of the word “cocktail” in print appeared in 1806 in a New York newspaper, where it was defined as a “stimulating liquor composed of spirits of any kind – sugar, water, and bitters”. This original formula is essentially what we now call the Old Fashioned. But recently, the menu has been shaken with the new micro cocktail trend.

Micro cocktails—drinks served in smaller-than-usual portions—are gaining momentum in bars, restaurants, and home entertaining, signaling a shift in how consumers approach drinking culture. Typically served in 3 to 5-ounce pours, these downsized drinks offer a more curated, intentional experience, catering to health-conscious, flavor-focused drinkers who prioritize quality over quantity.

Originally popularized in high-end cocktail bars as tasting flights or amuse-bouche-style sips, micro cocktails are now making their way into mainstream menus. The appeal is multifaceted: lower alcohol content, fewer calories, and the opportunity to try multiple drinks without overindulging. For many, they strike the perfect balance between indulgence and moderation.

Much of the popularity behind micro cocktails can be traced to shifting consumer preferences, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z. These younger generations are driving the broader movement toward mindful drinking and wellness-centric lifestyles. According to a 2023 report from IWSR Drinks Market Analysis, over 40% of Gen Z consumers in the U.S. say they are intentionally limiting their alcohol intake. Micro cocktails, with their elegant presentation and focus on craft ingredients, align with their desire for moderation without sacrificing experience.

Social media also plays a significant role in this trend. Visually striking, often served in ornate glassware or paired with creative garnishes, micro cocktails are tailor-made for platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Bartenders and influencers alike are using them to tell visual stories, turning every sip into a shareable moment. Their aesthetic appeal—colorful layers, tiny glassware, intricate details—has helped fuel demand, especially among a demographic that values both uniqueness and visual flair.

Restaurants and bars are responding by integrating micro cocktails into tasting menus and happy hour offerings. Some establishments even offer “cocktail omakase” experiences, where diners sample several mini cocktails throughout the evening. For venues, the format reduces waste and allows more experimentation, while patrons enjoy a broader range of flavors without committing to a full drink.

Even at home, the trend is catching on. Home bartenders are creating micro cocktail flights for parties, offering guests the chance to explore new spirits and flavor profiles without heavy pours. With the growing availability of premium mixers and low-ABV spirits, crafting sophisticated small-scale drinks has never been easier.

“The bars that give guests what they want are going to win. Seeing this pick up steam shows that there’s an enjoyable middle ground compared to not drinking at all and the heavy libations of years past. It also allows the traditions of spirit-forward cocktails to still thrive against the trend of low-ABV drinks. Getting to order a micro sized Negroni and a Daiquiri from a talented bartender sounds like a well rounded dinner to me!” shares famed chef and YouTuber Justin Khanna.

In a culture increasingly focused on balance, micro cocktails are the perfect embodiment of “less is more.” Whether driven by wellness, aesthetics, or the joy of discovery, these petite pours are redefining cocktail culture—one tiny glass at a time.

The Fresh ToastThe most trusted name in cannabis

The Strongest Summer Cocktails

Summer is time to kick back and have fun – and here are the potent cocktails add to the mix!

Zombie

Long Island Iced Tea

The Sazerac

Mai Tai

Pain Killer

Is A Dab For Developers Still A Thing

It seems the world revolves around tech – but does a green plant make it easier for developers?

Guess Who Is Cannabis’s Cousin

Family trees can be fun and challenging, so guess who is cannabis’s cousin?

Is Cannabis Part Of Memorial Day’s Beer Sales Drop

The first big holiday party weekend of the summer and beer didn’t make the biggest splash…did a green plant figure in to the issue?

Delicious And Easy Cannabis Mocktails

This delicious and intoxicating marijuana mocktails are perfect for the work week, a fun weekend of Sunday brunch – and no hangover!

The Best Cannabis-Friendly Destinations for 35–50-Year-Olds

Travel is still key part of many people’s lives…so here are the best for those who want to consume also!

Vancouver, Canada

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Portland, Oregon

Barcelona, Spain

Denver, Colorado

Are Vegans Taking Over The World

From social media memes to comments in restaurants, it seems they are multiplying in leaps and bounds…but are truly a huge amount of vegans?

Alcohol And Cannabis Consumer Behavior Evolving

Their is a new wave of behavior around drinking in public which could have a major impact on the alcohol and cannabis industry.

Fun Things To Do After Consuming Marijuana

Sometimes you just want to cut loose and laugh – here are some suggestion for when you consume

The New Micro Cocktail Trend

The drinks world has been shaken with the rise of the new micro cocktail trend.

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