"From favorable bourbon prices and unique heirloom grains to sustainability and new whiskey categories, the whiskey world is changing to the benefit of tipplers everywhere. To get the best possible insight on the latest trends taking place in the whiskey world for 2026 and beyond, we talked to four absolute experts in the industry: Ari Sussman, founder of Whiskey JYPSI; Hudson Austin of Wine Merchant; Jim McCourt of Prohibition Charleston; and Thomas Stevens of Fearless Restaurants."
""We're at a pivotal point, an exciting point in the whiskey industry," notes Sussman. Out with the old, dusty playbook, and in with the new. Whiskey brands are refocusing on quality over quantity, transparency about production practices, and relying on data to connect with consumers. Stay thirsty as you read on to get fully educated on the whiskey trends to look forward to in 2026. You're not going to want to miss out on any of these."
Bourbon oversupply from the 2010s boom is producing mature spirits at more affordable prices for the next few years. Distillers increased production after private equity and other investors treated bourbon as a financial asset, creating excess inventory. Whiskey brands are shifting toward quality over quantity, increasing transparency about production methods, and using data to engage consumers. New whiskey categories and renewed interest in unique heirloom grains are expanding flavor possibilities. Sustainability practices are becoming more prominent across production and packaging. Retailers and bars are positioned to pass savings to consumers while experimenting with collaborative bottlings and provenance-driven releases.
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