Product launches in the beverage aisle
What’s hitting the shelves? Weetabix’s protein power, Carlsberg’s non-alcohol lager, and Cucumber Chili Tequila
Carlsberg 0.0%
Carlsberg UK is rolling out a non-alcoholic lager, latching onto a boom in the alcohol-free category. According to Nielsen, this sector is now worth £41m.
“Insight shows drinkers are increasingly looking for alternatives when alcohol may not be a suitable option – but still want the satisfaction of a great tasting beer,” said David Scott, director of brands and insight at Carlsberg UK. “Carlsberg 0.0% delivers on these factors.”
The drink (pictured above as the main image to this article) follows the launch of San Miguel 0.0% and San Miguel 0.0% Limon earlier this year.
Weetabix wants protein power
This week Weetabix is launching protein-enhanced breakfast drinks in the UK, with vanilla, strawberry & raspberry, and blueberry & blackberry varieties making up the portfolio.
Weetabix On The Go Protein is made with milk, fruit, protein and soluble wheat fibre. Each bottle contains 20g of protein, is high in fibre, low in fat, and made without artificial sweeteners.
The beverage hopes to appeal to a younger audience in the breakfast drink aisle, as well as embrace the continuing trend for high protein products. Weetabix also launched its protein crunch cereal this month.
Absolut says show your true colours
The Absolut Colours bottle will hit UK shelves next month, as the vodka brand celebrates its legacy within the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transsexual (LGBT) community.
Decorated with multiple colours, the 70cl original variant will include a neck collar with simple serve suggestions.
“It isn’t just putting a rainbow on a bottle – it’s making a real statement about equal rights,” said an Absolut spokesperson.
The bottle from the Sweden-based Pernod-Ricard brand is also available in the US.
Cucumber chili tequila – ‘slightly spicy and refreshing’
Sauza Tequila is launching its Cucumber Chili Tequila, a premium drink with ‘an invigorating cucumber taste and zesty chili finish.’
Sauza Cucumber Chili is a 70-proof flavoured tequila, suitable to be consumed chilled, on the rocks, or in cocktails. It is available in the US at $15.99 for a 750ml bottle.
Other products from the Beam Suntory brand include Tequila Gold, Signature Blue Reposado Tequila, and Sparkling Margarita.
Anyone for tennis?
Champagne Lanson has produced its annual limited edition Wimbledon bottles, available in 750ml and 1500ml formats.
An all-white bottle will be available on-trade, and neoprene bottles off-trade (see pictured).
Lanson has partnered with The Championships, Wimbledon, for 26 years. In 2013 a record of 25,000 bottles of Champagne Lanson were sold during the tournament at the All England Lawn Tennis Club.
The prestigious tennis tournament starts today and runs to July 12th, with Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray all set to take to the courts in this year’s event.
Zesty grapefruit vodka from Beam Suntory
Pinnacle Vodka has launched its latest flavour this month: Ruby Red Grapefruit Vodka. The product is a 70-proof, five times distilled vodka with ‘a vibrant and zesty citrus flavour.’
Ruby Red Grapefruit Vodka is available in the US in 750ml bottles at $12.99. It can be served chilled, on the rocks, or in a cocktail.
The new launch from the Beam Suntory premium vodka brand joins 40 other flavours.
It’s summer, honey
Angry Orchard hopes its seasonal Summer Honey variety will cater for spring and summer tastes in the hard cider category.
The US brand says the age-old tradition of adding honey to food and drink inspired the recipe for this beverage. The 5% ABV drink is described as smooth, light and refreshing, ‘with a hint of honey sweetness and aroma.’
Angry Orchard Summer Honey is available through August at $7.99 - $9.99 for a 6-pack, or $14.99 - $17.99 for a 12-pack. It is gluten-free, as are other Angry Orchard ciders.
Are you launching a new beverage? E-mail rachel.arthur@wrbm.com
