February 15th 2025.
Remember those days when shots were all the rage? If you’re a Gen X or millennial, I’m sure you can relate to the thrill of downing tiny glasses of high proof booze as part of your night out. Those were the days, right? Whether it was wincing after taking a sticky shot of Sambuca, Jägermeister, or Aftershock, or letting out a sigh of relief after downing a neat 25ml measure of tequila or vodka, shots were the go-to drink for a quick buzz. But let’s be honest, they were pretty one-dimensional, didn’t require much skill from the bartender, and often left us with a not-so-great aftertaste and some serious regrets the next morning. Ahh, those were the noughties for you...
But hold on, it seems like the younger generation, known as Gen Z, has brought back the beloved shot, but with a twist. They’re opting for “baby” versions of their favorite cocktails, also known as “shooters”. Unlike traditional shots made with just one spirit, shooters are a combination of different ingredients, almost like a miniature version of a fancy cocktail you’d find at a high-end restaurant. It’s like speed-dating for your taste buds, giving you a taste of complexity and quality without committing to a full-sized drink.
Now, before you think this is a completely new concept, let’s give credit where credit is due. These baby cocktails have their roots in a tradition called “the bartender’s handshake”, where bartenders would make small, complimentary drinks for their industry friends to show off their mixology skills. But now, this trend has made its way from the US to the UK, with popular London spots like Blue Bar at The Berkeley Hotel offering flights of 35cl martinis, and East London’s trendy Tayēr + Elementary serving their signature “One Sip Martini” which has become so popular, they even have their own merchandise.
And it seems like the younger generation is not alone in their love for baby cocktails. According to data from Paragon Brands, out of 2,000 respondents, 63% said they prefer smaller versions of their favorite drinks or cocktails. For Gen Z, it’s about the taste and drinking less, but for millennials aged 35-44, a third of them said they would buy these baby cocktails specifically to post on Instagram. Hey, we can’t blame them, they do make for some pretty Instagram-worthy photos.
But here’s the real kicker, on a night out, nearly 70% of Gen Z choose to drink shots, which is way above the national average. And in London, they’re willing to pay an average of £3.36 per shot, compared to the national average of £2.63. That’s some serious love for baby cocktails.
Now, if this has piqued your interest and you’re ready to try some top-tier baby tipples, here are a few recommendations:
First up, we have the Baby Guinness, which is probably the OG of baby cocktails. This layered shot, made with coffee liqueur and a “foam” layer of Irish cream, is a favorite of football star Travis Kelce, who reportedly tried it during Taylor Swift’s Eras tour in Dublin in 2024. And just like pouring a Guinness, there’s an art to layering the foam that requires a steady hand and a little bit of skill.
Next, we have the Mar-tiny, a miniature version of the classic Martini. This tiny drink swaps the standard 75ml Martini for a 35ml equivalent, sometimes garnished with an oversized olive for a fun twist. Not only does this allow you to have more than one without getting too tipsy, but it also ensures that your drink stays cold until the very last sip. And with its small size, you can experiment with different flavors, like a vodka and horseradish or tequila-based version. Pro tip: spritz some dry white vermouth over your Mar-tiny for an extra kick.
Up next, we have the Snaquiri, a baby version of the classic Daiquiri. This shot-sized Daiquiri, conceptualized and named by a US bartender, is made with just rum, fresh lime juice, and sugar syrup in a ratio of 15ml, 5ml, and 5ml. It’s then shaken with ice, strained into a mini glass, and garnished with a sliver of lime. It’s a refreshing and easy-to-drink option for those who want to enjoy a Daiquiri without committing to a full-sized drink.
Moving on, we have the Twinsies Tequila con Sangrita, a unique drink served in two separate shot glasses. One contains blanco tequila, and the other has a concoction called “sangrita”, which is a mix of tomato juice, orange juice, fresh lime juice, tabasco, and salt. The idea is to take a sip of tequila and then follow it with a sip of the tomatoey sangrita to balance out the flavors. It’s like the healthier version of taking a shot of tequila, and it’s a popular drink in Mexico. Pro tip: try swapping tequila for Mezcal for a smokier flavor.
Last but not least, we have the Pocket Piña Corona, a twist on the classic Piña Colada that went viral on TikTok last summer. To make this miniature version, simply pour out half a bottle of Corona, top it up with white rum, a dollop of coconut milk, and a splash of pineapple juice. Mix it all together by gently turning the bottle upside down while covering the opening with your thumb. Then, pour it into shot glasses and garnish with a small wedge of fresh lime. It’s a fun and easy-to-make drink that’s perfect for a summer day.
If you’re interested in learning more about the latest trends in the world of drinks, be sure to check out Metro’s Drinks Column, where expert Rob Buckhaven shares his insights on everything from the best supermarket wines to the latest TikTok cocktails. And if you have a story to share, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Cheers!
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