VinePair Podcast Can Ugly Drinks Succeed?
Jul 17, 2025
The hosts explore the idea that aesthetic appeal might be more crucial than taste in today's beverage market. They discuss the lasting legacy of influential bartenders and critique clichéd references in cocktail culture. A deep dive into the cultural significance of Sambuca reveals its ties to coffee and personal anecdotes. The conversation also highlights how visual presentation can set drinks apart amidst fierce competition, driven by social media trends and advertising strategies.
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Visual Appeal Drives Drink Success
- Visual appeal is critical for drink success, especially for new products and brands.
- Social media drives aesthetic expectations more than ever before in the drinks market.
Distinctive Serve Overlooks Beauty
- Distinctive serve matters more than just looking good.
- Drinks like the White Russian succeed due to unique visual presentation, not just taste.
Unique Serves Attract Attention
- Unique presentation, such as the Moscow Mule's copper mug, helps drinks gain attention.
- Bars now prefer custom serves over standard presentations to stand out in a competitive market.