Despite the pervasive buzz around craft spirits and trendy ready-to-drink cocktails, the alcohol category people choose most often in the US right now remains mainstream light lagers. While other categories grab headlines for growth in revenue and ‘cool factor,’ sheer volume and frequency of consumption still place accessible, familiar beers at the top of the list for the average American drinker.
What “Choosing Most Often” Actually Means
When we ask what types of alcohol in the US right now are people choosing most often, it’s crucial to clarify the metric. This isn’t about which category generates the most revenue – that story often favors spirits. Instead, “most often chosen” refers to the sheer volume consumed and the frequency with which a product is purchased and drunk by the broadest segment of the drinking population. It’s about ubiquity, consistency, and the everyday choice, not just the special occasion or high-end purchase.
The Undisputed Winner: Mainstream Light Lagers
For all the excitement surrounding boutique distilleries and innovative new mixers, the reality on the ground is that brands like Bud Light, Miller Lite, and Coors Light still dominate the volume charts. These aren’t just legacy brands; they are staples. Their appeal lies in several factors:
- Accessibility: Available everywhere, from dive bars to stadiums to corner stores.
- Consistency: Predictable flavor profile, which is precisely what many drinkers seek.
- Affordability: Generally a more economical choice for regular consumption.
- Sessionability: Lower ABV means they can be consumed over longer periods without excessive intoxication, fitting well into social gatherings and casual drinking.
This category forms the bedrock of the American alcohol market when viewed through the lens of pure quantity and repeat purchase. The average drinker reaches for these familiar options far more frequently than the latest limited-release IPA or artisanal whiskey.
Why The Narrative Skews Away From Beer
The perception often diverges from this reality because industry news, marketing spend, and cultural trends tend to highlight growth areas. Spirits, especially premium ones, have seen impressive revenue growth. This makes for more exciting headlines and appears to suggest a shift in overall preference, but it doesn’t always reflect the underlying volume of what people actually drink most often.
The Rising Stars: Spirits and RTDs
While mainstream beer holds the volume crown, the narrative for growth and premiumization definitely lies elsewhere. The spirits category has been a powerhouse, notably in the last decade. Within spirits, two clear winners have emerged:
- Tequila: This agave spirit has surged in popularity, moving beyond margaritas to become a serious sipping spirit. Its growth has been phenomenal, driven by a perception of quality, versatility, and cultural cachet. Tequila has, by some measures, even surpassed vodka in terms of revenue, a remarkable shift in consumer preference.
- Ready-to-Drink (RTD) Cocktails: These pre-mixed beverages offer convenience and consistency. Distinct from hard seltzers (though often confused with them), RTD cocktails typically feature a spirit base (like vodka, gin, or rum) and often mimic classic cocktails. They cater to a desire for easy, quality drinks at home or on the go.
This shift reflects a broader trend toward premiumization and diverse flavor experiences in the US, a pattern echoed by the growing global appeal of premium spirits in markets like Asia.
What People Think Is Dominant (But Isn’t)
Many popular assumptions about current drinking habits don’t hold up under scrutiny when considering overall frequency of choice:
- Hard Seltzers: The Plateau. Once hailed as the next big thing, hard seltzers saw explosive growth, but that surge has largely plateaued. While still a significant market segment, they are no longer experiencing the rapid, widespread adoption that once characterized them. Brands like White Claw and Truly paved the way, but the novelty has worn off for many, and the category faces increasing competition from RTD cocktails.
- Craft Beer: Still a Niche. Craft beer continues to innovate and capture significant mindshare among enthusiasts. However, for the general drinking population, it remains a relatively small segment compared to the mainstream giants. While exciting and diverse, craft offerings are often chosen for specific occasions or by dedicated drinkers, not as the default everyday beverage for the majority.
- Wine: Stable, Not Soaring. Wine maintains a loyal following and a steady market presence. However, it hasn’t seen the dramatic shifts or explosive growth observed in certain spirits categories or the consistent volume of mainstream beer. Its consumption patterns tend to be more occasion-driven or tied to specific meal pairings.
The Emerging Trend: Non-Alcoholic Options
Another significant trend is the growth in the non-alcoholic (NA) category. While not ‘alcohol’ in the traditional sense, the increasing availability and quality of NA beers, spirits, and wines indicate a broader cultural shift towards moderation and mindful drinking. Consumers are increasingly seeking out sophisticated alternatives for various reasons, a trend explored in depth by discussions on why drinkers are choosing non-alcoholic options.
The Final Verdict on What Types of Alcohol in the US Right Now Are People Choosing Most Often
If your metric for ‘most often chosen’ is sheer volume and frequency of purchase, then mainstream light lagers still undeniably top the list in the US. However, if your interest lies in market dynamism and revenue growth, then tequila and ready-to-drink cocktails are the categories making the most significant waves. The most chosen alcohol in the US is the one that’s consistently dependable, not necessarily the one making the most noise.