The popularity of imported alcoholic drinks is soaring in Nigeria, spurred by the advocation of local celebrities. But with a previously strong tradition of locally-brewed drinks, what’s causing this dramatic shift in drinking habits?

Mezcal used to be a cheap drink, produced by local artisans and drunk by Mexican lower classes. But in 2013, it was the fifth most-drunk liquor worldwide. With its ancient distilling methods and complex flavours, how has it captured the palates of a growing number of admirers?

Just like beer before it, spirits are getting the craft treatment. Tapping into the emphasis on quality over quantity, Diageo has launched an accelerator programme to raise the next generation of craft distilleries. But why isn’t Diageo just creating its own premium brand?

Just one liquid is trusted to complement Chinese cuisines; ‘lü chá’ – green tea. In a bid to lure drinkers of China’s native firewater Baijiu, Bacardi believes it can transform Chinese dining and drinking culture by distilling green tea leaves to create a pure tea spirit. Will it catch on?