McCormick Names Black Currant as 2026 Flavor of the Year

McCormick & Company, a leading spice manufacturer, has designated black currant (Ribes nigrum) as its "Flavor of the Year" for 2026. This selection is part of McCormick's annual Flavor Forecast, which has been published since 2000 and aims to identify emerging culinary trends and flavors. Black currant, a berry native to Europe and central Asia, is characterized by its sweet, tart, and rich flavor profile. Historically popular in jams, jellies, and liqueurs, McCormick anticipates that black currant will gain significant traction in American cuisine, particularly in cocktails and baked goods.

This Is the Flavor of 2026, According to McCormickCNNSan Jose Mercury News

The choice of black currant aligns with broader dining trends, particularly the concept of "attainable opulence." This trend reflects consumers' desires for small luxuries in their meals, especially in light of economic pressures that have led many to cook at home more frequently. Hadar Cohen Aviram, McCormick’s executive chef, noted that black currant's vibrant purple color and unique flavor can elevate simple dishes, making them feel more extravagant. The report also highlights a surge in sauce experimentation, which has become increasingly popular across various dining sectors, including fast food.

San Jose Mercury News

Currently, black currant appears on only 1% of menus in the United States, but its presence is growing rapidly. According to Datassential Menu Trends, mentions of black currant have increased by 34% over the past year, driven largely by the rise of non-alcoholic beverages. Aviram indicated that black currant is particularly suited for enhancing drinks that require a touch of tartness and fruitiness. Beyond beverages, there is potential for its use in savory dishes, particularly with gamey meats like duck and pork.

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McCormick's Flavor Forecast is informed by a global team of approximately 80 professionals, including chefs and food technologists, who analyze culinary trends. Tabata Gomez, chief marketing officer at McCormick, emphasized that black currant's bold flavor profile can enhance a wide range of dishes. The company aims to inspire home cooks and food service providers with innovative ideas through its annual report.

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While the selection of black currant has been met with enthusiasm, some industry observers express skepticism about the practicality of introducing a lesser-known flavor to mainstream American cuisine. Critics argue that consumer familiarity and acceptance are crucial for the success of new flavors in a competitive market.

This Is the Flavor of 2026, According to McCormick

• “Black currant has a bold, sophisticated flavor that combines sweet with savory and elevates the experience of any dish,” — Tabata Gomez, Chief Marketing Officer, McCormick

This Is the Flavor of 2026, According to McCormick

• “it really does signal opulence,” — Hadar Cohen Aviram, Executive Chef, McCormick

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• “This keeps the McCormick brand visible, and it probably drives sales of some of the products featured,” — Neil Saunders, Managing Director, GlobalData

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As McCormick prepares to promote black currant throughout 2026, the company will likely continue to monitor consumer responses and adapt its marketing strategies to capitalize on the growing interest in this unique flavor.

This Is the Flavor of 2026, According to McCormick