Ocean Spray taps “newstalgia” trend with new Cosmopolitan serves for UK trade

Ocean Spray®, the world’s leading producer of cranberry juices, juice drinks and dried cranberries, has today unveiled a collection of new Cosmopolitan serves ahead of National Cosmopolitan Day (7th May), reimagining the iconic cocktail for modern tastes.

Created in partnership with mixologist Ed To and Table Manners podcaster Lennie Ware, the new serves have been developed because of the enduring resurgence of “newstalgia” in culture, which has seen the blending of familiar, comforting and nostalgic flavours with modern twists, ingredients and formats in the cocktail scene.

The reinventions also come as consumers confirm they are seeking out modern twists, according to new research from Ocean Spray. Almost 4 in 10 (38%) UK consumers say that they enjoy trying modern twists on classic cocktails, with around half (43%) agreeing that more classic cocktails should be brought back into fashion. Similarly, 42% would like to see more bars, pubs and restaurants offering classic cocktails or a modern twist on them on their menus.

As the creator of one of the Cosmopolitan’s original and defining ingredients – cranberry juice – Ocean Spray is perfectly positioned to breathe new life into the much-loved serve, championing its versatility across both alcoholic and non-alcoholic occasions.

The new recipes include a reworked classic short serve, plus a longer, more refreshing variation, as well as a mocktail option of each, designed to appeal to a wide range of drinking preferences.

The final recipes were reviewed and chosen in a focus group including experts from Ocean Spray, Lennie Ware and industry insiders, all scored based on taste, visual appeal and their ability to stay true to the essence of the original Cosmopolitan while delivering a contemporary twist.

First popularised in the 1990s – thanks in part to its association with Sex and the City – the Cosmopolitan has long been a symbol of style and sophistication, having been first mentioned back in 1927. Today, with renewed interest in nostalgic culture and a growing appetite for elevated classics, with a variety of alcoholic strength options, Ocean Spray believed now was the time to reintroduce the cocktail to a new generation.

Zoe Trimble, marketing director at Ocean Spray, said: “We know the Cosmopolitan holds a special place in culture and epitomises the current trend for newstalgia, so it felt like the perfect moment to reimagine the iconic cocktail for today’s drinkers.

Ed’s vision for these new serves with Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice showcase just how versatile the Cosmo can be. The new recipes will be shared across Ocean Spray’s digital channels, in-store, on pack, and via partner platforms, encouraging both on-trade venues and at-home consumers to rediscover the delicious Cosmopolitan this summer.”

Podcaster and Cosmo fan Lennie Ware commented: “As anyone who’s listened to our Table Manners podcast might know, I’ve always loved a Cosmopolitan and always make sure to have one wherever I am. It’s a true classic and the perfect cocktail for me! But of course, you can’t make a great one without great tasting cranberry juice, which must be Ocean Spray, and these new twists for 2026 are a brilliant way to bring the drink back into the spotlight. I was delighted to be a part of the decision making!

It’s such a great drink to have when you’re at a bar, restaurant or pub, and so easy to make at home too. Plus, a perfect cocktail to add your own twist – my own personal recipe uses oranges instead of limes.”

Mixologist Ed To added: “Working with Ocean Spray on this project has been a great opportunity to revisit such an iconic cocktail. The aim was to respect the original while introducing flavour combinations that feel relevant to how people are drinking today.”

Further activity for the campaign includes social content from Ed To and features across the Table Manners Podcast social channels, helping to bring the campaign to life for a wider audience.