Okay, we need to talk. No, I'm not mad, I'm just disappointed. Why have I just learned that beer consumption is at an all-time low? Well?
Videos by Wide Open Country
A new study has highlighted recent trends in alcohol consumption in America. Crazily, despite country going from strength to strength each year, fewer and fewer Americans are drinking beer. As country music is beer's biggest propaganda asset, it's strange to see.
Escoffier, the nation's #1 Ranked Culinary School, performed a study to analyze drinking habits across the United States. It is in their findings that it's been revealed that fewer Americans prefer beer, and other alcohols are on the rise.
Considering how much country music revolves around beer, you'd think a lot more than 34% of Americans prefer beer. That's right, only 34% of the nation prefers beer now. To put this in perspective, there are now almost as many wine drinkers as beer drinkers in the country.
There is hope, however, as the study has also shown that beer is still the most popular drink of choice among 18 to 34-year-olds. In higher age brackets, wine has become increasingly popular.
If we want to keep country music relatable, we gotta make like Mitchell Ferguson and "Drink A Beer."
Americans Are Preferring Tastier And More Convenient Drinks
I know I've said that we need to drink more beer, but I myself do prefer liquor. Any tasty rum will do, thank you very much. Especially if that rum's in a cocktail.
Interestingly, it seems the nation is appreciating taste and convenience more and more.
The Ready-To-Drink cocktail market is expected to double in value by 2029. Although that's four years away, this is only the RTD cocktail market we're talking about. These cocktails are already made, can be cheap, and are always tasty, which says a lot about shifting attitudes.
What's more, is that 40% of alcohol consumers ordered more alcohol via delivery in 2024. That's quite a staggering rise and shows that more than ever, Americans want to streamline more aspects of their lives. Even getting drunk.
Why go out to the store to buy alcohol and mixers and assemble drinks yourself, when you can order some RTD cocktails?
If these trends continue, the country of the future might change entirely. Don't be too surprised if Zach Top releases a Cold Cocktail & Country album as a spiritual successor by 2029.
