What exactly is an e-cigarette flavour?

An e-cigarette flavour is a highly concentrated flavour extract based on food-grade carriers such as propylene glycol (PG) or ethanol. It contains neither nicotine nor a base, but only the flavourings. It is only by mixing it with a base of PG and vegetable glycerine (VG) that a vapable e-liquid is created. Technically, there are three formats: Flavour concentrates (10–30 ml): Not vapourisable on their own; they are mixed into a base at a concentration of 5–20%. Longfills: Bottles containing 10–20 ml of flavouring, which you top up with additional base to make 60–120 ml of ready-to-vape liquid. Shortfills: Pre-flavoured, nicotine-free liquids (usually 50–100 ml), to which you can optionally add a nicotine shot. Ready-made 10ml e-liquids contain the flavouring already dissolved and ready for use – ideal for beginners without mixing equipment.

Liquids & Aromen

E-cigarette flavour: taste, selection and DIY basics

Choosing, mixing and dosing e-cigarette flavourings correctly: Guide to liquid flavours, DIY bases and nicotine shots. Incl. buying tips for Switzerland at a glance.

An e-cigarette flavouring is the concentrated essence that gives your e-liquid its character – from fruity and tobacco to dessert flavours. Whether you use ready-made e-liquids or mix your own, choosing the right flavouring determines the vaping experience, intensity and addictiveness of your setup. In this guide, you’ll learn how flavours are formulated, what types are available, how to dose them correctly, and what to look out for when buying in Switzerland. By the end, you’ll know whether to opt for a 10ml e-liquid, a shortfill, or a flavour concentrate for your own DIY blend.

An e-cigarette flavour is a highly concentrated flavour extract based on food-grade carriers such as propylene glycol (PG) or ethanol. It contains neither nicotine nor a base, but only the flavourings. It is only by mixing it with a base of PG and vegetable glycerine (VG) that a vapable e-liquid is created.

Technically, there are three formats:

Flavour concentrates (10–30 ml): Not vapourisable on their own; they are mixed into a base at a concentration of 5–20%.
Longfills: Bottles containing 10–20 ml of flavouring, which you top up with additional base to make 60–120 ml of ready-to-vape liquid.
Shortfills: Pre-flavoured, nicotine-free liquids (usually 50–100 ml), to which you can optionally add a nicotine shot.

Ready-made 10ml e-liquids contain the flavouring already dissolved and ready for use – ideal for beginners without mixing equipment.

When vaping, the e-liquid is heated to 180–250 °C at the coil. The flavour molecules contained in the flavouring vapourise together with PG and VG and unfold on the palate when inhaled. How intense the e-liquid flavour appears depends on three factors: flavouring concentration, steeping time and hardware.

Steeping time

Many flavours – particularly tobacco, cream and dessert notes – require 3–14 days of steeping in a dark, cool environment before their full profile develops. Fruit and menthol flavours, on the other hand, are usually ready for use straight away.

Influence of hardware

Sub-ohm atomisers below 0.5 ohms at 40–80 watts emphasise sweet and fruity notes, whilst MTL coils around 1.0 ohm at 10–15 watts reproduce tobacco and menthol flavours more accurately. The same mixture therefore tastes different on different devices.

Anyone looking to buy e-liquid flavourings is faced with a vast selection. These criteria will help you make your decision:

Choose a format that suits your skill level: Beginners are better off with 10ml e-liquids or short fills. DIY mixers should opt for flavour concentrates plus a separate base.
Follow the recommended dosage: Reputable manufacturers specify the recommended mixing ratio (e.g. 10% in base). Overdosing leads to a peppery, harsh taste – not more flavour.
Check the ingredients: Look for products declared as free from diacetyl, acetoin or acetylpropionyl. Clear labelling requirements apply to vape flavours in Switzerland.
Plan your flavour: Start with one or two flavours you like. Wild mixtures of five concentrates rarely result in a distinct profile.
Estimate consumption realistically: A 10 ml flavour concentrate yields 50–200 ml of finished e-liquid, depending on the dosage. This usually lasts 2–4 weeks for everyday use.
Proof of age: Flavours with a nicotine shot option are intended only for adults aged 18 and over.

How much flavouring goes into 100 ml of base?

Most flavour concentrates are dosed at 8–15%. For 100 ml of ready-to-use e-liquid, that’s 8–15 ml of flavouring; the rest is PG/VG base. You’ll always find the exact details on the manufacturer’s bottle label.

Can I vape a flavouring undiluted?

No. Flavour concentrates are not intended for direct vaping – they are too highly concentrated, cause extreme throat hit and can quickly clog the coil. Always dilute with base or choose a ready-made e-liquid.

What is the difference between DIY flavouring and ready-made e-liquid?

With DIY flavouring, you mix the concentrate, base and optional nicotine boost yourself – this is cheaper and more flexible, but requires scales, patience and a bit of practice. Ready-made e-liquids are ready to vape straight away and are ideal for beginners.

How long does a flavouring last?

Unopened, flavours usually last for 24 months when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, you should use them within 12 months, as the flavour profile slowly changes due to exposure to oxygen.

The right e-cigarette flavouring has a greater impact on your vaping experience than any hardware. Choose the format and dosage to suit your level of experience, allow for maturation time and start with tried-and-tested flavours. In our range of flavour concentrates, you’ll find tested brands for DIY projects, and in our selection of ready-made e-liquids, suitable options that require no mixing. Take your time to compare and gradually find your way to your personal flavour profile.