McCormick & Co., longtime spice experts and manufacturers, recently released their 2005 flavor forecast, which notes a trend in international flavors.

The top 10 flavors, in alphabetical order, include allspice, annatto, cardamom, cinnamon, curry, ginger, mint, pickling spice, sage and vanilla.

Pickling spice is enjoying a renaissance but not because of an increased interest in pickling. Instead, home cooks are finding it works well with braised meats and stews.

These spice trends are largely related to Americans' increased interest in international flavors, according to McCormick.

For more information, visit www.mccormick.com.