Syrups are today firmly established as an essential ingredient for bartenders and mixologists worldwide, enabling these creatives to add flavor, taste and imagination to classic beverages or give new concepts a contemporary twist. We asked seven experts to share their thoughts on all things syrup-related, from trending flavors and industry innovations to how they achieve that perfect balance in a glass. Here’s what they had to say.

Favorite flavored syrups for drinks
Hibiscus syrup tops my list, especially in summer, when its berry-like color and floral aromas work really well in in-season drinks. I’d probably place ginger syrup second – its spiciness and warm taste are great for balancing most drinks, making it suitable all year round. Third spot goes to a syrup made from yuzu, a Japanese citrus fruit which tastes like a mix of mandarin and lime, and combines perfectly with passion fruit. I use it in my favorite cocktail at Addmind, which is called Momo Collins, alongside passion fruit, pink grapefruit soda, rosemary and gin. Elderflower syrup is another favorite since it’s so versatile. Its floral and citrus notes make it great in wines, cordials and many other drinks.

On balancing flavors
This important skill comes down to professional training, intuition and experience. Layers of flavors brought together in different ratios are key to gaining that desired balance, while finding the flavors to enhance the drink is also crucial, like when adding a dash of bitters or fresh herbs to a fruity cocktail. One tip for achieving a harmonious taste and balancing sweetness is to add an acidic element, like citrus, bitters or herbal foams. We also have access to several modern techniques today that can help balance the sweetness of flavored syrups, including sous-vides and milk-washing.

Industry trends
The use of natural and organic ingredients in flavored syrups is definitely a current trend and manufacturers are increasingly offering products that meet these requirements. In line with this, homemade syrups are becoming popular for cocktails and these are attracting health-conscious consumers. Building on this trend, innovatively flavored products are being developed with good nutritional value and lower sugar content.

Favorite flavored syrups for drinks
I like to work with orgeat syrup as it has great balance when combined with tropical fruits, such as passion fruit, pineapple and lime, among others. Other favorite syrups include strawberry, vanilla and agave, all of which give drinks an amazingly well-balanced flavor and natural taste. On another note, the smell, taste and color of almond syrups are truly mesmerizing and they’re incredibly versatile, blending with almost every combination of flavors. I recently added one to a new gin-based cocktail and the result was amazing.

The art of creativity
The first thing I like to consider when making or creating a drink is the star ingredient which should be showcased by the drink. This can be a bit tricky if you’re working with delicate ingredients, such as shiso leaves or strong flavored ingredients like truffle. There’s an element of trial and error here and the opinions of the team play a key role when it comes to trying something new. I also consider the venue when creating a new drink and think about how to ensure the style complements it.

On balancing flavors
There are many factors involved in achieving a great harmonious taste, from techniques in making the drinks to using the right additional ingredients; for example, lime, lemon, yuzu and other sour fruits will help you obtain the right balance of sweet and sour. Foaming agents, such as egg white, cream and milk, are also key in helping to lock in all the flavors as one. In addition, a well-balanced drink needs bitterness to ensure that every part of the palate is totally satisfied.

Favorite flavored syrups for drinks
I don’t have a specific favorite flavor, although there are some that really strike a chord with me; for example, I made a few pepper-based syrups recently and was really astounded by their incredible depth and versatility. Other flavored syrups that I love using are tea-based varieties. If made correctly, they are extremely flavorful, bearing the signature nuances of the tea leaves in a sugar-charged form.

The art of creativity
I’ve always adopted a playful approach with my cocktails, which partly helps to explain why I’ve recently become obsessed with bubblegum and popcorn! I think that certain flavors like these have a kind of superpower that enables guests to travel back in time just by inhaling their aromas. Barfly by Buddha- Bar’s bar menu sports a drink based on bourbon and popcorn, rectified with lactic acid. It gives customers a real sensation of being seated cozily in front of their favorite movie holding popcorn – everyone’s favorite movie snack.

On balancing flavors
When using syrups, whether homemade or store bought, the trick is to not add too much coveted sweetness, but, instead, to offset the sugar with a sour and bitter element. Food acids are good players to incorporate in syrups to tame their sugar level, adding a zesty citrusy taste. Shrubs are another perfect example of how a syrup can become a gamechanger in a drink, incorporating both sweetness and tartness. They allow us to really explore the wide and wild world of vinegar since this is their pivotal ingredient.

Industry trends
Lots of bars in Dubai are really upping their game in syrup-making, partially due to having access to new devices, which include centrifuges, sonic infusers and rotavapors. These technology-driven tools are helping unlock layers of flavors and depth which are otherwise difficult to achieve.

Favorite flavored syrups for drinks
Classic choices like vanilla, caramel and mint syrups, remain the most popular for beverages since they add a touch of sweetness and a unique flavor, enhancing their taste and appeal. On a personal level, I enjoy working with syrups that offer versatility and the potential to create interesting flavor combinations. Some of my favorites include fruit-based syrups, like raspberry or passion fruit, which bring vibrant and refreshing flavors to cocktails. I also look for unique options, such as rosemary-infused or cardamom syrups, which provide depth of aroma and taste.

The art of creativity
When deciding which flavored syrups to use in drinks, it’s essential to consider the overall flavor profile you want to achieve. You have to think about the base spirit and the other ingredients in the drink; for example, citrus-based syrups, like lemon and orange, pair well with clear spirits, such as vodka or gin. Richer flavors, meanwhile, like caramel or chocolate, are known to complement whiskey or rum-based cocktails.

On balancing flavors
Achieving a harmonious taste in cocktails requires balancing the sweetness of flavored syrups with other flavors. I employ various techniques, such as adjusting the syrup proportions to find the right sweetness level, incorporating acidity through citrus juices like lemon or lime, or introducing bitter or herbal ingredients to provide contrasting flavors.

Industry trends
Trends in flavored syrups evolve over time. Current popular flavors include elderflower syrup, known for its delicate floral notes, and spiced syrups, infused with warming spices like cinnamon or ginger. Unique fruit combinations, such as strawberry basil or pineapple-jalapeno syrups, are also gaining popularity. Additionally, using seasonal ingredients like pumpkin spice, apple or cranberry in syrups is great for capturing the flavors of the moment.

Favorite flavored syrups for drinks
When it comes to flavored syrups for drinks, I absolutely love working with violet and orgeat. Violet syrup brings a unique and floral essence to beverages. Its delicate and slightly sweet flavor adds a touch of elegance and charm to a variety of drinks. Orgeat syrup, traditionally made from almonds and orange flower water, offers a delightful nutty and subtly sweet taste. I personally enjoy working with homemade syrups as they can add a unique touch to cocktails. However, when it comes to achieving consistent flavors and taste experience, relying on certain brands is a must, particularly when working with seasonal ingredients. Two brands I like to work with are Giffard, known for its authentic flavors and versatility in cocktails, and Monin, known for its consistent quality and ability to capture true flavors.

On balancing flavors
Achieving a harmonious balance of flavors is crucial in cocktail creation. If the cocktail lacks depth or complexity, a flavored syrup can provide the missing element and enhance the overall taste experience. When it comes to balancing the sweetness of flavored syrups with other flavors in a cocktail, one of the most effective techniques is to incorporate acidity. Acidity helps to counteract and balance the sweetness, resulting in a more harmonious taste. Lemon juice, as well as other acidic ingredients like citric acid and malic acid, can be used to achieve this balance. Finding the right balance of sweetness and acidity in a cocktail is a skill that develops with practice and experimentation. By gradually incorporating acidity and tasting along the way, you can create a harmonious and well-balanced drink that allows the flavors of the flavored syrups to shine, while avoiding overwhelming sweetness.

Favorite flavored syrups for drinks
There are many flavored syrups I like to use to make drinks, but my favorites are probably bitters, orgeat, passion fruit, elderflower, lavender, mango and coconut. I find these syrups are among the best for complementing and enhancing the other flavor elements in drinks.

The art of creativity
I decide which flavored syrup to use in a drink based on the fruits, juices, herbs and other elements in the recipe. The end result must be a unique combination of flavors that will cater to guest preferences and provide an enjoyable taste experience.

On balancing flavors
Balancing is the most challenging part of making a great drink. There are many techniques involved and it definitely takes time, patience, perseverance, determination and creativity to obtain a harmonious result. To balance a drink, you should start with a base flavor element, then add sweetness, citrus or sour elements and bitters to taste. Keep adjusting until you reach the balance you’re looking for. What’s important is to ensure that no single flavor overpowers any of the others, rather it should allow you to taste every element of the drink. Industry trends Current trends I’ve noticed include infusing flavored syrup with other ingredients in drinks. Lavender syrup infused with dry hibiscus and cinnamon syrup infused with pineapple are two examples that spring to mind, but there are many varieties currently trending. Other ideas proving popular are the use of flavored syrups as adhesives or glue to stick edible elements in the glass or even as paint to create illustrations. You can make so many things out of flavored syrups, like flavored ice blocks, sodas, foams, bubbles and candy glass for garnish – the possibilities are endless!base flavor element, then add sweetness, citrus or sour elements and bitters to taste. Keep adjusting until you reach the balance you’re looking for. What’s important is to ensure that no single flavor overpowers any of the others, rather it should allow you to taste every element of the drink.

Industry trends
Current trends I’ve noticed include infusing flavored syrup with other ingredients in drinks. Lavender syrup infused with dry hibiscus and cinnamon syrup infused with pineapple are two examples that spring to mind, but there are many varieties currently trending. Other ideas proving popular are the use of flavored syrups as adhesives or glue to stick edible elements in the glass or even as paint to create illustrations. You can make so many things out of flavored syrups, like flavored ice blocks, sodas, foams, bubbles and candy glass for garnish – the possibilities are endless!

Favorite flavored syrups for drinks
My favorite syrups for drinks are vanilla, passion fruit and cherry. These are versatile flavors which I usually try to keep in my bar and go well with both classic cocktails and more contemporary interpretations. Vanilla goes perfectly with various old fashioned drinks, passion fruit with the Porn Star martini and various Tiki cocktails, and cherry with upgrades using red vermouth, like the Manhattan, Negroni and Americano, as well as a Daiquiri or Margarita. I prefer to use homemade syrups since my place of work has easy access to products from all over the world at a reasonable price, but there are some flavors that are not worth making yourself. In these circumstances, my brand of choice would be Giffard, whose products are really close to the natural flavors of ingredients.

The art of creativity
Before adding any additional flavor to a drink, I sample the base alcohol of the planned cocktail and try to seek out distinctive flavors and aromas. This enables me to determine which additional flavors could fit and think how to boost the overall flavor by adding an additional ingredient that will balance the cocktail once complete.

On balancing flavors
There are many techniques for balancing cocktails, including adding different juices or bitters to elevate them. Creating and adding fermented products, homemade cordials or shrubs that contain more than one kind of flavor is a great approach, as is incorporating different acids or milk punches, or adding a little salt that will emphasize the distinctiveness of other flavors.

Industry trends
One of the latest trends for flavored syrups is the use of the freezing technique, which enables us to extract different flavor profiles from a single product and then use them in various cocktails. This technique also allows us to support the bar food cost.