Modern Era
2010–present
Today's cocktail landscape: globally connected, technically sophisticated, and increasingly inclusive. Bartenders blend tradition with innovation, science, and sustainability.
Key Events
- 2010s: Clarified milk punch goes mainstream
- 2013: The World's 50 Best Bars list gains global influence
- 2015: Low-ABV and no-ABV movements emerge
- 2018: Sustainability becomes a core bar philosophy
- 2020: Bottled and canned cocktails boom during pandemic
- 2020s: Fat-washing, sous vide, and molecular techniques become accessible
- 2023-present: AI-powered cocktail recommendation tools emerge
Key Figures
Dave Arnold (Liquid Intelligence), Trash Tiki (sustainability), Monica Berg (Tayer + Elementary), Ryan Chetiyawardana (Mr Lyan), Lynnette Marrero (Speed Rack), Ivy Mix (Leyenda)
Cultural Context
The democratization of cocktail knowledge through social media and online resources. Sustainability, inclusivity, and wellness are reshaping what and how we drink. Non-alcoholic spirits have created an entirely new category.
