Gen Z Shifts Drinking Habits, Opting for Quality Cocktails

WHO:

NY Post - Ryan Close, founder of Bartesian

Fox News - Ryan Close, CEO of Bartesian

WHAT:

NY Post - Younger drinkers are searching for better options amid rising alcohol costs.

Fox News - Gen Z consumers are opting for premium cocktails at home, choosing to drink less but demanding higher quality beverages.

WHY:

NY Post - The shift in drinking habits is attributed to rising alcohol costs.

Fox News - Gen Z is not giving up alcohol; instead, they are changing how they drink by focusing on quality over quantity.

(UPDATED July 27, 2026 14:58 UTC)

Ryan Close, the founder and CEO of Bartesian, is noting a significant shift in drinking habits among younger consumers. As alcohol costs rise, Gen Z is opting for premium cocktails at home, choosing to drink less while demanding higher quality beverages. This change reflects a trend where younger drinkers are not giving up alcohol entirely, but are instead focusing on quality over quantity.