Mindful Drinking Is In—Here's How Stoneham, MA Bartenders Are Leading the Trend

Whether or not they create formal resolutions, many individuals live more purposefully in the weeks following the New Year. These mindful choices can affect their decisions, their spending, and more.

After a season of indulgence, alcohol consumption is one area many Stoneham residents reconsider in January. Some may choose to abstain altogether; others may cut back or aspire to higher-quality experiences. Either way, barkeeps need to enter the new year with these trends in mind, according to the mixologists at Post 1917. The Reading-based steakhouse and bar is recognized for its quality drinks, as a recipient of Wine Spectator's 2025 Award of Excellence for restaurants.

Part Of The Plan

Customers are entering the New Year with intention, planning alcohol consumption like they do their sugar intake and sleep goals, according to recent reporting by Forbes. Alcohol sales may be down - roughly 3% - but they're not out. Patrons are still going to the bar, but going with a plan - a couple of beers, a glass of wine, or mixed drinks after work - and sticking to the script. In 2026, bartenders will need to make the most of the sales they get - and may have fewer opportunities to make an impression.

As Stoneham residents navigate the mixed U.S. economy, many are cutting back by prioritizing quality over quantity. They're taking a "less-is-more" approach to their drinking, making sure their hard-earned dollars are going to an experience they'll remember - for a number of reasons. They're increasingly seeking premiumization - trading up in quality and pricing while enjoying smaller amounts.

Premiumization

High-end, single-glass wine sales are one way bars can embrace premiumization. Cutting-edge Coravin technology allows Post 1917 patrons to sample select high-end wines by the glass without committing to the entire, cost-prohibitive bottle. This method typically uses a slender needle to pass through the bottle's cork, allowing wine to be poured without removing the cork and preserved for drinking weeks or months later.

Premiumization is also on the 2026 menu for mixed drinks, with an eye toward globalization, according to Wine Enthusiast magazine. Caribbean and Mexican spirits are especially popular, with celebrated Mexican mainstay tequilas popping up on menus everywhere. Customized liquor experiences, tailored to local specialties, can elevate drinks to the next level.

Alcoholic drinks aren't the only thing on the menu. Many customers are entering 2026 intentionally sober, in keeping with trends growing since 2018, according to Forbes. But they aren't just looking for Shirley Temples. Bars that offer quality mocktails and alcohol-free drinks will keep these customers, whether their decision is a temporary resolution or a long-term lifestyle change.

Setting The Bar High

Patrons being choosy with their time and money don't want to spend either on a dive. Those who are looking for an upscale experience should look for these signals on the drink menu, according to the experts at Post 1917:

• Brand callouts for top-shelf liquors or reliable mainstays. If they aren't telling you what you're drinking, you probably don't want to know.
• Detailed menu language that tells a story. A basic description means a basic drink.
• House-made syrups or localized ingredients. Because farm-to-table shouldn't stop at the kitchen.
• Coravin offerings or other systems, like Wine Squirrel, Blu, or Private Preserve. While preservation times vary, all of these allow for high-end, by-the-glass consumption.
• Sophisticated mocktail descriptions. Non-alcoholic drinks should provide premium experiences, too.

Whether you're leveling up, cutting back, or cutting out, you're still looking for a good time. And you deserve it. Treating yourself can take many forms in 2026 - be intentional about finding the best ways for you to celebrate the new year.

Post 1917
City: Reading
Address: 136 Haven Street,
Website: https://www.post1917.com