What seems to be the alcoholic beverage of choice at weddings?

Vikram Arunagiri, Managing Director, Gulp Bangkok:
There has been a huge shift towards tequila and a variety of gin. The natural assumption for Indian weddings is that there is a high consumption of whisky. However, we have come to witness, especially at blockbuster-scale weddings, the tequila and gin duo has become the preferred companion to these celebrations. Moreover, the variety of gins in the market is extremely popular with the modern-day crowd because of the price point. It also goes to show that people are educated on the types of drinks they consume and have a sophisticated palette. They know their cocktails and desire strong, bold flavours, and avoid repeat drinks. They need variety.

Nakul Roy, Commercial Director, Bacardi Thailand:
In Thailand, premium and luxury tequila and agave spirits seem to be the “flavour of the month” among discerning consumers. We are confident we can thrive in this space with our powerful brand Patron and we offer consumers a best-in-class tequila. In key tourist areas, we see a huge uplift in premium white rum, Bacardi consumption, especially in simple mixed drinks such as a cuba libre or popular cocktails such as mojitos and daiquiris. For nightlife, premium events, and festivals, Grey Goose Vodka seems to be the drink of choice, either with bottle service or simple mixed cocktails. We are also seeing keen interest in our Dewars whisky range on these occasions, especially the 15-year-old.

Kieran James, GM International Business, Third Eye Distillery:
Beverage trends ebb and flow with the ever-changing times. Observing how these trends vary across neighbouring countries is intriguing, as I’ve experienced during my travels around Southeast Asia in recent months. Amidst the diversity, a few noteworthy trends have emerged. When you step into a top-notch cocktail bar today, you’re likely to encounter a captivating drink featuring a clarified milk punch, a mesmerising creation born out of the process of redistilling, or perhaps an irresistible elixir crafted through fermentation techniques. Moreover, sustainability has become a prevalent theme, with a focus on minimalistic yet extraordinary libations that harmoniously blend technique and flavour. And it’s impossible not to mention the ever-simple yet enduring highball cocktail.

What seems to be the alcoholic beverage of choice at weddings?

Vikram Arunagiri, Managing Director, Gulp Bangkok:

Wedding parties now require a full bar service with vodka, a selection of gins, blended whiskey like Chivas, single malts, white rum for common mojito requests, and tequila like Jose Cuervo. The more the merrier because that gives us the opportunity to create more and discover new drinks.

Kieran James, GM International Business, Third Eye Distillery:
While it may not be the most common request, many are now requesting bespoke cocktail menus. With meticulous attention to detail, our team of experts can tailor menus to align precisely with their preferences. To ensure absolute perfection, we’ve organised workshop sessions before the grand event, where the couples could sample each recipe and provide feedback. This collaborative approach allows us to fine-tune the drinks and create an impeccable beverage experience. We relish working with wedding couples who share our passion for exceptional beverages and appreciate the significance of every detail of their special day. Amidst the myriad elements that go into wedding planning, the beverage offering often remains overlooked in terms of its potential to elevate the occasion and create a truly memorable experience. This is slowly changing.

Nakul Roy, Commercial Director, Bacardi Thailand:
Most wedding couples and their families usually go with trusted, well-known spirits that are meticulously crafted, with a focus mainly on the liquid. Decision-making factors seem to be based on mouthfeel, smoothness, drinkability, and/or mixability. We get wedding orders on Grey Goose Vodka and Bombay Sapphire to be their most desired brands and also a lot of interest in our Martini Prosecco and sparkling wines. It goes without saying Bacardi, Patron, and our whisky portfolio with Dewars and Aberfeldy single malts do very well.

What type of drinks are customers leaning toward as of late?

Vikram Arunagiri, Managing Director, Gulp Bangkok:
What we have noticed recently are that specific labels of gin, such as Roku and Hendricks, remain a crowd favourite; The Botanist Islay Dry Gin is another that is gradually making the rounds. It’s becoming more apparent that clients are searching for a boutique experience, searching for bottles from Lady Triêu, a contemporary gin from Vietnam, and Ki No Bi Kyoto Dry Gin from Japan. Aside from the gins and the selection of tequila from Don Julio, 1800, and Cenote, an ultra-premium 100% Agave Azul Tequilana Weber tequila, are leading the charge in that category.

Kieran James, GM International Business, Third Eye Distillery:
The landscape of wedding beverages is experiencing a fascinating shift, with an increasing desire for bespoke offerings that infuse weddings with an air of uniqueness. Gone are the days when couples settle for the same old drinks that have been tirelessly replicated at numerous celebrations. Today’s younger wedding couples yearn for libations that reflect their individual style, veering away from mainstream offerings. This presents an exciting opportunity for experimentation and discovering new, distinct brands that captivate their senses and contribute to a truly personalised celebration.

Kieran James, GM International Business, Third Eye Distillery:
Every wedding celebration deserves a beverage programme that stands out and leaves an indelible impression. One sure-fire way to achieve this is through a bespoke cocktail menu. As an example, we once had the pleasure of working with a wedding party where the couple desired ‘his’ and ‘her’ signature cocktails. Collaborating closely with our talented mixologists, the couple participated in the creation process, resulting in a delightful libation that became a symbol of their union throughout the festivities. We even took the time to teach them the recipe, allowing them to revisit and commemorate their special day whenever they desire, through the magic of their bespoke cocktail.

Nakul Roy, Commercial Director, Bacardi Thailand:
Modern twists on classic cocktails are still very much in vogue at wedding parties, from creative twists on negronis and old- fashioneds, to more accessible cocktails such as using exotic fruits and refreshing herbs and ingredients. Personalisation and ‘building your own’ drink continues to be a popular choice, such as choosing your own garnish for gin & tonics, or bespoke espresso martinis.