When it comes to alcoholic beverages, men and women often have different preferences. Recent studies and surveys have looked at the types of alcohol that tend to be most popular among women. Here's an overview of the alcoholic drinks that women seem to favor.
Wine
Wine, particularly white wine, frequently tops the list of preferred alcoholic beverages for women. In a Gallup poll, women respondents chose wine as their beverage of choice by a significant margin. The sweeter taste of many white and rose wines seems to appeal more to the female palate in comparison to the bitterness of some beers or the burning sensation of hard liquors. The perceived sophistication of wine may also add to its popularity among women.
Reasons for Popularity
- Fruity, sweet flavor
- Lower alcohol content
- Sense of sophistication
- Numerous varietals to choose from
Most Popular Types
- White wine
- Pinot Grigio
- Moscato
- Riesling
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Rose wine
- White Zinfandel
- Provence rose
Cocktails and Mixed Drinks
While women tend to drink wine more frequently, cocktails and mixed drinks are also a very popular choice. The ability to customize cocktails with different spirits, mixers and garnishes seems to be appealing. Flavored spirits and liquors also allow for interesting variations in mixed drinks. The social aspect of cocktails may also enhance their popularity among women.
Reasons for Popularity
- Ability to customize flavors
- Lower alcohol content in some cocktails
- Appealing flavors from mixers and garnishes
- Social/festive association
Most Popular Types
- Vodka cocktails (Vodka Tonic, Cosmopolitan)
- Gin cocktails (Gin and Tonic, Tom Collins)
- Margaritas
- Daiquiris
- Martinis
Hard Seltzers
The recent rise in popularity of hard seltzers like White Claw, Truly and others has been driven largely by female drinkers. With refreshing flavors and lower alcohol content, hard seltzers appeal greatly to women looking for a light and satisfying alcoholic beverage. Hard seltzers are now one of the fastest growing market segments in the alcohol industry.
Reasons for Popularity
- Light/refreshing flavor
- Lower alcohol content
- Portability
- Perception as a healthier option
Most Popular Flavors
- Fruit flavors (mango, raspberry, lime)
- Citrus flavors (lemon, grapefruit)
- Neutral flavors (pure, vodka)
Champagne and Prosecco
Bubbly drinks like Champagne and Prosecco are associated with celebration, enjoyment and sophistication. Women often choose sparkling wines for festive drinking occasions like parties, weddings and birthdays. Offering elegant flavors in an effervescent style, these sparkling beverages hold wide appeal for female drinkers looking to imbibe and celebrate.
Reasons for Popularity
- Elegant, sophisticated image
- Refreshing effervescence
- Flavor versatility
- Sense of celebration/festivity
Most Popular Types
- Champagne
- Prosecco
- Cava
- Sparkling Rose
Fruity Ciders
For women who find beer to be too bitter or filling, fruity ciders offer a lighter and sweeter alternative while still feeling like a "beer drink." With more brands offering ciders in styles ranging from dry to sweet, women have more choice in finding a cider to suit their preferences. Ciders have grown greatly in popularity with female consumers in recent years.
Reasons for Popularity
- Lighter taste than beer
- Sweetness/fruit flavors
- Lower alcohol content
- Gluten-free appeal
Most Popular Flavors
- Apple
- Berry and cherry flavors
- Peach, pear, apricot flavors
- Seasonal flavors like pumpkin
Conclusion
While women's preferences are diverse and drinking habits are highly individual, certain trends do emerge in the alcoholic beverages favored by female drinkers. Flavor and lower alcohol content seem to be priorities for many women selecting wines, cocktails or ciders. Whatever their reasons may be, women today have more choices than ever in finding alcoholic beverages well-suited to their tastes. Ultimately, the "right" drink is the one that each individual female drinker enjoys and consumes responsibly.
