Summer Flavour Trends for 2026

The Cocktail Hour Contenders

Hugo Spritz is having a serious moment. This elderflower and prosecco-based aperitif, born in the bars of South Tyrol, has graduated from 'one for those in the know' to genuine mainstream appeal. Non-alcoholic versions from Waitrose and other brands amassed almost 800,000 views on TikTok last year, whilst Bacardi research shows the spritz has overtaken Champagne as the go-to drink for socialising in Europe, with 41% of respondents naming it their top choice.

"The Hugo Spritz profile works brilliantly beyond beverages," explains Georgie. "We're working with clients on everything from sorbets and frozen desserts to confectionery applications. That delicate elderflower sweetness with subtle mint and citrus notes offers tremendous versatility."

Mojito remains a perennial favourite, and it's easy to understand why. That combination of mint, lime, and a touch of sweetness is practically engineered for hot weather. UK non-alcoholic spirits brand Smiling Wolf recently entered the RTD space with a premium Mojito alongside G&T, Aperitivo Spritz and Negroni, each crafted with natural nootropics and vitamins to support mood and focus. MOTH Drinks' cocktail party pack features a Mojito alongside seven other bestsellers.

Paloma, the grapefruit and tequila classic beloved in Mexico, is bringing a welcome tartness to the party. As Speciality Food Magazine has noted, "No bar is without grapefruit tonic, soda, bitters or spirits at the moment." The UK RTD cocktail market is valued at nearly £1bn, with Paloma among the standout performers as consumers seek convenient ways to enjoy this trending serve.

Fresh and Botanical

Cucumber & Mint continues its quiet dominance in the refreshment category. It's spa-like, sophisticated, and endlessly versatile, characteristics that translate well across soft drinks, flavoured waters, and confectionery.

"Cucumber and mint is one of those flavour combinations that consumers instinctively understand," notes Georgie. "It communicates freshness and quality immediately. We're seeing particular interest from clients developing better-for-you products where that clean, refreshing profile adds real value."

Pink Grapefruit offers the perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and tart; a complexity that resonates with increasingly sophisticated palates. Industry analysis shows emerging citrus flavours including blood orange, yuzu, and pomelo are gaining traction, but pink grapefruit remains a reliable choice for product developers seeking broad appeal with a point of difference.

Watermelon rounds out the fresh category with its crowd-pleasing sweetness. RTD cocktail analysis shows tropical flavours like watermelon, star fruit, cherry, and strawberry remain strong crowd-pleasers, whilst J2O has introduced Apple & Watermelon Sparkle as part of its premium sparkling range for the adult soft drinks market.

"Watermelon is almost synonymous with summer," says Georgie. "The challenge for developers is capturing that authentic, juicy character without it becoming overly sweet or artificial. That's where working with quality flavour partners makes a genuine difference."

A Nod to Nostalgia

Eton Mess, that gloriously chaotic tumble of meringue, cream, and strawberries, proves British classics are far from tired. Research shows nearly half of consumers actively choose nostalgic flavours for emotional comfort, with classic British desserts particularly resonating. The flavour continues to inspire NPD across bakery, confectionery, and frozen desserts, a trend we've seen reflected in ice cream innovation where traditional British desserts are being reimagined for modern consumers.

Similarly, Strawberries & Cream offers a more refined take on the Wimbledon favourite. With the tournament remaining a fixture of the British summer calendar, this flavour combination carries genuine emotional resonance with consumers seeking nostalgic comfort.

Forest Fruits brings a richer, more complex berry note to the table. Where strawberry delivers singular sweetness, forest fruits offers depth and sophistication; particularly appealing for premium positioning across multiple categories.

"There's real power in nostalgia," observes Georgie. As industry research confirms, "nostalgic flavours offer consumers an escape, taking them back to simpler moments of joy", providing emotional security in uncertain times. "Flavours like Eton Mess and Strawberries & Cream connect with memories and emotions. For manufacturers, that's incredibly valuable. You're not just selling a product, you're selling a feeling."