The Hottest Drinks of Summer 2025: What Will Different Generations Choose?
As the summer of 2025 approaches, beverage trends are shaping up to reflect the diverse tastes and preferences of different generations. From Gen Z to Baby Boomers, each age group has its own unique approach to drinking, driven by health consciousness, sustainability, nostalgia, and the desire for new experiences. Let’s take a look at what drinks will dominate this summer and why they are expected to be favorites across generations.
Gen Z (Born 1997–2012): Refreshing and Health-Conscious Beverages
Gen Z has already demonstrated a preference for mindful drinking, seeking out beverages that are infused with health benefits and made from natural ingredients. This summer, they will continue to favor sparkling waters, herbal teas, and fruit-based infusions with added vitamins and antioxidants. These options cater to their focus on wellness and hydration. Brands that incorporate sustainability into their production process, such as private label sparkling water or private label seltzer options with eco-friendly packaging, will attract Gen Z consumers who prioritize environmental impact.
Additionally, non-alcoholic beverages such as mocktails, kombucha, and antioxidant-rich smoothies will remain popular, as many younger consumers embrace a wellness-oriented lifestyle. Social media trends will play a huge role in boosting the popularity of vibrant, aesthetically pleasing drinks that offer unique flavors, such as butterfly pea flower lemonade or matcha-based coolers.
Millennials (Born 1981–1996): Premium and Artisanal Drinks
Millennials love an elevated drinking experience, and this summer, premium handcrafted beverages will be their go-to choice. Unlike Gen Z, who prefer grab-and-go convenience, Millennials enjoy the ritual of preparing a drink, making home beverage kits and mixology classes popular.
Expect to see an increase in demand for artisanal coffee blends, cold brews, and craft lemonades that allow for unique and complex flavor combinations. Organic and locally sourced ingredients will be a top priority, with Millennials continuing to support small-batch brands and ethically made products.
Another major trend among Millennials will be low-waste and sustainable drinks, with cafes and restaurants emphasizing reusable materials, biodegradable straws, and minimal-waste garnishes. They will also gravitate toward ready-to-drink (RTD) iced teas and botanical-infused sparkling waters that offer a balance between convenience and quality, especially those using organic or innovative flavor profiles, like yuzu-ginger coolers or lavender-honey infusions.
Gen X (Born 1965–1980): Classic Beverages with a Modern Twist
Gen X tends to appreciate classic drinks, but they also enjoy modern upgrades that make their beverages more interesting. This summer, they will be drawn to revamped retro drinks—think cold brew teas with exotic spices or fruit-based spritzers made with premium ingredients.
While they may not be as health-conscious as younger generations, Gen X drinkers are becoming more open to naturally sweetened and lower-calorie alternatives to their favorite beverages. This means they will embrace herbal iced teas, freshly pressed juices, and high-quality sparkling waters over sugary sodas.
One emerging trend that appeals to this generation is fermented drinks, such as naturally flavored water kefir and probiotic-rich beverages. They are looking for interesting, flavorful drinks without artificial additives, making handcrafted fruit tonics and botanical infusions a rising favorite.
Baby Boomers (Born 1946–1964): Timeless Elegance and Wellness-Oriented Choices
Baby Boomers prefer drinks with a sense of tradition and refinement, and their summer beverage choices will reflect this. Classic options like high-quality teas, artisanal coffee, and naturally sweetened juices will remain their staples. However, with an increasing focus on health, many Boomers are seeking alternatives that still deliver complexity and depth of flavor.
Expect to see a surge in demand for herbal and botanical infusions, as these offer sophisticated flavors with wellness benefits. Drinks like hibiscus tea, chamomile-infused tonics, and naturally brewed iced teas will appeal to Boomers looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while still enjoying rich and balanced flavors.
Another trend making waves among this group is functional beverages with added benefits, such as vitamin-enriched waters and adaptogenic herbal drinks. This allows Boomers to enjoy refreshing beverages that support their overall well-being without compromising on taste or tradition.
Universal Trends: What Will Everyone Be Drinking?
Despite generational differences, some trends will be universally embraced this summer. Sustainable and eco-friendly packaging will be a must-have, with consumers across all age groups demanding beverages that are better for the planet. Personalized and customizable drinks will also gain traction, allowing consumers to tailor their drinks to their specific tastes, whether it’s a customizable tea bar or DIY herbal infusions.
Finally, global flavors and cross-cultural influences will shape beverage menus everywhere. From Japanese-inspired iced teas to tropical fruit punches, consumers are eager to explore new taste experiences.
Final Thoughts
The summer of 2025 is set to be a season of diverse and exciting drink trends, shaped by generational preferences and shifting consumer habits. While younger generations continue to push for wellness-driven, functional beverages, older generations seek a balance between tradition and innovation. With sustainability, premium quality, and unique flavor experiences at the forefront, this summer’s drinks are sure to be refreshing, delicious, and tailor-made for every age group.