The Geopolitics of Bar Culture

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The Geopolitics of Bar Culture

Bars and pubs have long been integral to the social and cultural fabric of societies worldwide. Beyond serving as venues for leisure and socialization, these establishments play significant roles in trade, cultural exchange, and the projection of soft power. The multifaceted geopolitics of bar culture, such as how bars influence international trade, foster social interactions, and serve as instruments of cultural diplomacy, exemplifies much of what this newsletter represents.

Bars as Catalysts for International Trade

The global beverage industry is not only a significant economic force but also a reflection of geopolitical realities, with bars and pubs serving as critical nodes in the distribution and consumption of alcoholic drinks. The interconnected nature of international trade means that shifts in trade policies, economic sanctions, tariffs, and diplomatic relations can have immediate and long-term consequences for the availability, pricing, and diversity of beverages offered in drinking establishments worldwide.

For instance, trade tensions between major economies often result in disruptions to supply chains, forcing establishments to rethink their product offerings. The ongoing disputes between China, the U.S., and the EU have had a notable impact on the global drinks trade. A discussion at Wine Paris 2025 highlighted how these tensions have affected French wine exports to China, which have been declining for several years. Nicolas Ozanam, a key industry expert, noted that while the Chinese market remains crucial for European wine producers, political and economic uncertainties have led to a contraction in exports. At the same time, the US beverage market has remained relatively stable, though potential shifts in trade policy under the Trump administration introduce an element of unpredictability.

Geopolitical shifts necessitate that bars and pubs continually reassess and adapt their beverage selections based on availability and shifting consumer preferences. In Europe, for example, if traditional wine imports from France to China decrease, Chinese consumers may turn to locally produced wines, leading to a transformation of the bar and restaurant scene in major cities. Conversely, European bars that once relied heavily on American bourbon, Russian vodka, or Chinese baijiu may now find themselves sourcing alternatives from emerging markets, such as Japanese whisky, Indian craft gin, or South American pisco.

This evolution in supply chains doesn’t just impact pricing and product accessibility; it reshapes the cultural landscape of drinking establishments. When bars introduce new brands and flavors, they alter consumer palates and create new drinking habits. A London pub that can no longer easily source American whiskeys due to increased tariffs may instead stock Scotch from lesser-known distilleries or Japanese single malts, leading to a shift in consumer preferences. Similarly, a New York cocktail bar facing disruptions in European wine imports might explore new vintages from South America, Australia, or domestic U.S. vineyards, gradually changing the expectations and tastes of their clientele.

Beyond economics, these shifts have a cultural impact. Bars and pubs are not just commercial spaces; they are cultural institutions that reflect the heritage and preferences of a society. As trade restrictions or economic policies change the availability of traditional drinks, establishments must strike a balance between preserving cultural authenticity and embracing new realities. This is particularly relevant in heritage bars or themed establishments, such as Irish pubs, German beer halls, or French wine bars, which rely on specific beverage imports to maintain their cultural integrity. If tariffs, diplomatic rifts, or supply chain constraints make it prohibitively expensive to serve signature drinks, these businesses must either adapt or risk alienating their patrons.

Social Hubs and Cultural Exchange

Bars and pubs serve as more than just drinking establishments; they function as social institutions where individuals forge connections, share ideas, and engage in cultural exchange. These spaces offer a sense of belonging to both locals and visitors, acting as gathering points where traditions are passed down, conversations unfold, and communities strengthen their collective identity. Throughout history, bars and pubs have been centers of intellectual discourse, political movements, and artistic expression, playing a key role in shaping the social and cultural landscapes of their respective regions.

The design, ambiance, and practices within these establishments are often deeply rooted in cultural identity, reinforcing and preserving historical customs and values. In many cases, bars and pubs reflect national and regional character, with their architectural styles, drink selections, and social etiquette serving as tangible representations of a country’s heritage. For instance, the traditional Irish pub, with its dark wooden interiors, folk music, and warm hospitality, provides an immersive experience into Irish culture and traditions, regardless of whether it is located in Dublin, New York, Tokyo, or even Arlington, VA. These pubs not only serve as spaces for social interaction but also act as living cultural artifacts, preserving Ireland’s social customs and fostering an appreciation for its music, language, and storytelling traditions.

The presence of Irish pubs worldwide exemplifies how bar culture acts as a conduit for cultural diplomacy. These establishments serve as extensions of national identity, helping to maintain a connection between the Irish diaspora and their homeland while introducing non-Irish patrons to Irish customs. Many national governments and tourism boards recognize the power of these spaces in fostering international goodwill. Ireland, for example, has actively supported the global expansion of Irish pubs, recognizing their role in promoting Irish culture and boosting economic ties. By fostering positive associations with Irish heritage, these pubs contribute to Ireland’s visibility on the world stage, strengthening diplomatic and economic relationships through informal cultural exchange.

The strategic use of bar culture extends into the realm of international relations, where informal social settings facilitate diplomatic engagements. The British tradition of "pub diplomacy" illustrates this approach. Defense Secretary John Healey has hosted meetings with international counterparts in British pubs, fostering stronger military alliances through casual social interactions. By sharing drinks in a relaxed environment, diplomats and officials can build personal rapport, easing formal negotiations and enhancing bilateral relations. This method of cultural diplomacy leverages the informal and hospitable nature of pubs to create an atmosphere conducive to open dialogue. Such settings can break down hierarchical barriers, allowing for more genuine and productive exchanges between international partners.

Moreover, bars often adapt to the cultural contexts in which they operate, creating hybrid spaces that blend local and foreign elements. This fusion allows for cultural exchange and innovation, demonstrating how globalization can redefine traditional spaces while preserving essential aspects of heritage. In Spain, for example, Chinese entrepreneurs have taken over traditional Spanish bars, keeping them operational while maintaining their original character and social function. By serving classic Spanish drinks, playing traditional music, and retaining long-standing customers, these bars uphold Spain’s cultural identity, even under new ownership. This phenomenon represents a form of soft power, where the interplay between foreign investment and local tradition enhances social cohesion, demonstrating how global migration and business influence can positively contribute to cultural preservation rather than eroding it.

The ability of bars to function as social, economic, and cultural hubs ensures their continued relevance, even as societies evolve. As globalization accelerates, these establishments bridge gaps between cultures, offering spaces where diverse communities can interact and engage in meaningful exchange. Whether in a cozy Irish pub, a lively Latin American cantina, or an upscale European wine bar, the fundamental role of these spaces remains the same: to bring people together, celebrate shared traditions, and create an environment where cultural appreciation thrives.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite their cultural, social, and economic significance, bars and pubs are facing a worrisome decline due to shifting consumer behavior, particularly the trend toward reduced alcohol consumption and the growing emphasis on wellness-oriented lifestyles over enjoying life. The decline of traditional bar culture represents a loss of something far greater than just alcohol consumption—it signals the erosion of rich social experiences, communal bonds, and the Epicurean joys that have long been fundamental to human existence.

Bars and pubs have historically been hubs of social interaction, places where lively conversation, laughter, and camaraderie flourished. They are the spaces where stories are exchanged, friendships are forged, and ideas are debated, offering a setting that encourages both deep intellectual engagement and lighthearted revelry. Unlike the sterile, transactional environments of many modern social spaces, bars invite a kind of unstructured, organic socializing that is increasingly rare in a world dominated by digital interactions and isolated consumption.

Most importantly, the art of crafting and enjoying a fine cocktail, an exquisite wine, or a well-poured pint is an Epicurean experience, one that indulges the senses and celebrates the pleasures of taste, smell, and texture. The slow savoring of a complex cocktail, whether a perfectly balanced Negroni, an expertly mixed Old Fashioned, or a seasonal spritz, is an act of appreciation for craftsmanship and the nuances of flavor. Pair this with the glow of candlelight, the hum of jazz, and the murmur of conversation, and you have an experience that goes beyond mere drinking—it becomes a celebration of life itself.

The growing rejection of bars and the shift toward sobriety-focused socializing often fail to recognize the deeper role that these spaces play in fostering human connection and cultural tradition. They are not just places to consume drinks; they are spaces to experience life fully, to embrace the spontaneity of encounters, to engage in meaningful discussions, and to relish the simple joy of shared company. The Epicureans of ancient Greece and Rome understood that pleasure, when pursued wisely, is the key to a well-lived life. This does not mean reckless excess, but rather a cultivated appreciation for the pleasures of the senses and the joys of human interaction. Bars and pubs, with their warmth, conviviality, and celebration of the finer things in life, are embodiments of this philosophy. To let them fade away in the name of self-denial and rigid asceticism is to deny ourselves one of the great joys of existence.

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March Cocktail: Dark 'n' Stormy

The Dark ‘n’ Stormy is a classic rum cocktail with deep ties to Bermuda. Its origins date back to the early 20th century, when Gosling’s Black Seal Rum and ginger beer were combined to create a refreshing yet bold drink. The story goes that after World War I, British naval officers stationed in Bermuda began mixing locally brewed ginger beer (originally made as a seasickness remedy) with Gosling’s dark rum. The resulting drink was said to resemble a stormy sky, leading to its name. According to legend, a sailor once remarked that it was “the color of a cloud only a fool or a dead man would sail under.” Gosling’s later trademarked the name Dark ‘n’ Stormy, meaning that an official version of the cocktail must be made with Gosling’s Black Seal Rum and ginger beer—no substitutions allowed. Today, the Dark ‘n’ Stormy remains a signature Bermudian drink, beloved by sailors and cocktail enthusiasts worldwide.

Instructions

1. Fill a chilled highball glass with a large clear ice cube or high-quality crushed ice.
2. Pour the ginger beer into the glass first—this helps create the signature layered effect.
3. Slowly float the Gosling’s Black Seal Rum over the ginger beer by pouring it over the back of a bar spoon, allowing it to settle on top.
4. Add two dashes of Angostura bitters and fresh lime juice. Stir gently for a balanced mix.
5. Garnish with an expressed lime peel (rub the peel around the rim for extra aroma) or a lime wheel for a more classic presentation.
6. Serve with a cocktail stirrer, allowing the drinker to mix at their discretion.