“Mediterranean,” “whisked,” and “savory” may not immediately come to mind when thinking about alcoholic beverage trends, but you’ll likely see them on menus in 2026.
That’s according to the Monin 2026 Flavor Trends report, built on global research, cultural shifts, and real-world menu analysis, Monin’s annual forecast identifies five trends that blend creativity with commercial opportunity.
Whisked Away: Nostalgia Meets Playful Escape
The Whisked Away category invites consumers to step outside the everyday through flavors that feel familiar yet unexpected. This trend taps into emotional storytelling, pairing nostalgia with novelty in ways that feel indulgent and fun.
Think Yuzu Creamsicle sodas, Ube Pop Tart–inspired desserts, or banana-foster lattes layered with cold foam and boba. For Gen Z and millennials especially, these flavors aren’t just about taste – they’re about creating memorable, shareable moments.
The Savory Shift: Complexity in the Cup
With The Savory Shift, beverage innovation leans boldly into bitter, briny, and umami profiles. Ingredients like miso, sesame, mushroom, and even pickle are finding their way into cocktails, coffees, and mocktails.
This “swavory” movement reflects a more adventurous consumer palate, one that values depth and sophistication. Brown butter old fashioneds or savory espresso drinks blur category lines and reward curiosity.
Old World Inspiration, Modern Appeal
The Mediterranean movement draws inspiration from the sun-soaked flavors of Southern Europe, North Africa, and the Eastern Mediterranean. Citrus, pistachio, saffron, olive oil, basil, and rose evoke a strong sense of place and tradition.
Whether it’s a limoncello-style spritz or a cardamom-infused cold brew, these flavors bring warmth, balance, and authenticity to menus looking for global credibility.
Earth Tones: Nature as a Visual Cue
Earth Tones celebrate botanical flavors and naturally vibrant colors that signal freshness and transparency. Matcha greens, hibiscus reds, turmeric golds, and butterfly pea blues appeal to consumers seeking cleaner labels and visually striking drinks.
In an era where beverages must perform both on the menu and on social media, color becomes part of the flavor story.
Wellness Wonderland: Function Without Sacrifice
Finally, Wellness Wonderland reframes better-for-you beverages as indulgent experiences rather than compromises. Adaptogens, electrolytes, botanicals, and low- or no-alcohol formats deliver functional benefits while maintaining crave-worthy flavor. Wellness here is aspirational, accessible, and enjoyable – a key evolution in how consumers define balance.
Together, these five trends highlight a future where flavor is experiential, expressive, and deeply connected to consumer values – offering operators plenty of room to innovate in 2026 and beyond.
