Flavorman knows a thing or two about flavors. After 25 years in the beverage industry, they’ve helped to develop more than 40,000 beverage formulas for companies of all sizes from craft spirits startups working on their first Moonshine to Fortune 500s working on a big budget soft drink. Their highly trained scientists and super tasters have taken on all types of craft beverages including sodas, beer and of course, spirits.
Looking ahead, their experts are predicting that the flavor trends for 2018 will help soothe the soul with a back-to-basics palate of earthy, natural flavors that remind people of simpler times.
2018 Top 4 Beverage Flavor Predictions
The flavor forecast for 2018 is shaping up to be full of ooey, gooey goodness. Maple, the sweet sign of spring and uniquely North American ingredient is the top trending flavor for the upcoming year. It is famous for its complex sweetness and unmatched flavor. More recently, it is front and center for its role as an alternative sweetener and extensive list of health and nutritional benefits.
No. 1 Beverage Trend – Maple
Maple: Like Bourbon, but Sweeter: Maple flavors can be both deliciously complex and subtle. (Ok, they didn’t include bacon on the list but, they did reference Bourbon so I’m on board.) Like bourbon, many factors influence how maple tastes. One could taste notes of roasted coffee while another detects hints of hazelnut and cinnamon. Also like bourbon, maple must age to reach perfection. Trees need to be 30-40 years old before they can be tapped. Another benefit of Maple is its high antioxidant value. It contains elevated levels of the mineral manganese and vitamin B2, which promotes a healthy metabolism, bone structure and thyroid function.
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No. 2 Beverage Trend – Honey
Stick with Sticky: Much like maple, honey is a natural ingredient that not only sweetens your favorite beverage, but offers a diverse variety of flavors. Honey delivers flavor and aroma. In the United States, there are 300 varieties of honey, all with unique flavor profiles, from light and mild to robust and strong. Allergy sufferers have long touted the healing powers of honey. It has been known to improve cholesterol, lower blood pressure and acts as a natural energy source.
No. 3 Beverage Trend – Grapefruit
Fruity over Sweet: If sweet isn’t your thing, grapefruit adds a citrusy, zesty touch. Grapefruit is a versatile flavor that that packs a powerful punch. The unique combination of sweet and tart creates an aromatic, distinctive flavor. The popularity of grapefruit-inspired drinks continues to trend upward, and the health benefits are like those in honey. The citrus fruit is packed with Vitamin C and decreases the risk of obesity, diabetes and promotes healthy skin.
No. 4 Beverage Trend – Botanicals
Botanical Spins: Herbal blends such as mint, juniper and rose bring the year’s flavor trends full-circle. The uniqueness of these ingredients allows them to be used as the primary ingredients in spirits in other beverages, but also in culinary creations.
Dwayne Freeman of Appalachian Moonshine Distillery tells his tale of working with Flavorman to develop his 10 flavors of moonshine when he first start his West Virginia distillery.
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