NEW BEVERAGE

Vanessa Hunter Business Development Manager

One category that is driving significant flavor shifts for consumers is indulgent beverages. In a post-covid world we are finding that people are wanting a sensory experience created by food and beverage. They want to maximize ingredients to create bold flavors that ignite their sense of taste and smell.

The three big flavor profiles spilling over into 2023 are Tart, Salty and Floral. Tart and sour fruits like berries and citrus can elevate a drinking experience. We are seeing them used more in preparation – like fermenting, pickling or barrel aging. Some unusual flavors popping up both in the United States and internationally are yuzu, pomelo and bergamot. Don’t worry, Blood orange and blackcurrant will continue to be on menus! Salt will be a key flavor. It helps balance out bitterness or offers a contrast to sweetness. Think cocktail salts or salted caramel. Salty seaweed and algae-based drinks made an appearance in 2022. Due to the health benefits and sustainability of these two they have captured drinkers’ imaginations. Last but certainly not least is Floral and botanical. This trend has been around for a while. With the wide range of health benefits, I can see why this flavor shows up year after year. Look for floral notes of cherry blossom and elderflower in sodas and cocktails or mocktails. Ginger, vanilla and cinnamon will show up in a wide range of drinks as well.

As you can tell the theme for 2023 is “mindful consumption” Consumers want the flavor explosion but are also health conscience. The other trend we are seeing is a continued rise in mocktails or low alcohol drinks. Studies show that the moderation trend will continue as people prioritize their mental health and clarity.

Here’s some statistics that stood out:

• 58% of global consumers are drinking more non-alcoholic and low-ABV cocktails than a year ago (2022 Bacardi Cocktail Trends Report).

• No- and low-alcohol volume will grow by 8% CAGR between 2021 and 2025, compared to regular alcohol volume growth of 0.7% CAGR during that same period (IWSR Drinks Market Analysis).