Artisanal lemonades: The honeyed taste of nature in a bottle
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in natural products and beverages that offer not only refreshment but also an authentic taste experience. Natural lemonades are becoming increasingly popular, not just for their healthier ingredients, but also for their emphasis on traditional values and local production.
Lemonades, those refreshing drinks that make us feel better on hot summer days, have a long and fascinating history that dates back to Egypt. There, beverages were made from water, lemon juice, and honey, serving not only as a refreshment but also as a curative.
In the 17th century, lemonades spread to Europe, becoming a favourite drink of the aristocracy. The first commercial lemonade was produced in France in 1630 and contained lemon juice, sugar, and water. With the development of the sugar industry and the greater availability of citrus fruits, lemonade production became more affordable and popular.
Today, the lemonade market is highly diverse, with constantly evolving flavours that people in the past could only dream of. In addition to classic citrus lemonades, we can now find various exotic flavours such as mango, passion fruit, and ginger. Herbal lemonades are also very popular, featuring ingredients like basil, mint, and lavender.
What you may not know about lemonades
The first bubbly lemonade: In 1767, English chemist Joseph Priestley discovered a way to saturate water with carbon dioxide, creating the first bubbly lemonade. He made this discovery by accident when he found that fermenting beer releases carbon dioxide, which can be captured and dissolved in water.
Lemonade in pop culture: Lemonade has become an iconic refreshing summer drink, often depicted in films and literature as a symbol of well-being and relaxation. In the USA, for example, the lemonade stand is a classic image of children's entrepreneurship and summer fun.
Healthy alternatives: In recent years, lemonades without added sugar, sweetened with natural sweeteners, and containing fewer calories, have become increasingly popular. This trend reflects the growing demand for healthier drinks suitable for diabetics or those mindful of their weight.
Homemade lemonade: Making homemade lemonade is once again becoming a popular activity in many households. People are experimenting with different ingredients such as fruits, herbs, and even spices to create unique, refreshing drinks. Homemade lemonades are often considered a healthier alternative to commercial beverages because they are free of artificial additives and preservatives.
Regional specialties: Different countries and regions have their own popular versions of lemonades. In Turkey, for example, "sherbet," a sweet fruit drink, is a favourite. In India, lemonade with added black salt and spices, known as "shikanji," is often enjoyed. In Mexico, "agua fresca," made from fruit, sugar, and water, is widely popular.
Opre' and Mellos: combining unconventional flavour
In Slovakia, we have companies dedicated to producing lemonades and beverages that follow trends while respecting tradition and quality. One such company is Opre', which, under the brand Mellos, produces natural lemonades free from artificial sweeteners, additives, and preservatives. Each bottle is the result of careful production, with an emphasis on preserving the natural taste and nutritional value of the ingredients.
Mellos lemonades are available in a variety of flavors, each delivering a unique experience full of freshness and natural sweetness. These natural lemonades combine seemingly incompatible herbs and floral honey from local beekeepers to create new and unconventional flavors in the world of carbonated beverages.
We at "Made in Slovakia" had the opportunity not only to taste these drinks but also to see how they are made. You can join us and watch the entire process in an interesting reportage video on our website.