What's hitting the shelves? New beverage launches: From premium soda to Mediterranean gin
United Soda
United Sodas is debuting new and improved packaging and formulation this summer (pictured above).
The brand – which is ‘reimagining premium soda for the modern day’ – launched in 2020. As it moves towards its next phase of growth, it has created new packaging optimized for retail shelf presence and brand awareness.
Regarding reformulation, United Sodas remains true to its mission of offering a premium soda with big flavor and simple, healthier ingredients.
Noting that consumers prefer simple, recognizable ingredients, United Sodas has improved its sweetener base with a blend of organic cane sugar and organic stevia, resulting in a better, bolder flavor with just 8 grams of organic cane sugar and 35 calories per serving.
It will also launch a newly reformulated and renamed flavor, Lemony Lime, just in time for summer. Formerly known as Lemon Verbena, this refreshing update tones down the floral notes and enhances the zesty lime essence, reminiscent of the beloved classic soda flavor.
United Sodas’ full lineup of twelve flavors includes Cherry Pop, Strawberry Basil, Extra Peach, Orange Nectarine, Young Mango, Lemony Lime, Pear Elderflower, Gingery Ale, Sour Blueberry, Toasted Coconut, White Grape, and Blackberry Jam.
Mitra9 Kava Kanna Mango Sunrise
Mitra9 has debuted its Kava Kanna Mango Sunrise shot: marking its first foray into the realm of kanna-infused products.
Kanna, known for its traditional use in South Africa, adds a unique dimension to Mitra9's expanding portfolio of botanical wellness solutions. Combining the relaxing properties of kava with the mood-enhancing benefits of kanna, the Mango Sunrise shot promises a refreshing and uplifting experience, crafted for consumers seeking natural alternatives.
Each Mitra9 product reflects a dedication to ancient herbal traditions and modern flavor profiles: with a portfolio including a variety of kava and kratom products, and a variety of formats such as 12oz seltzers and 2oz shots.
Uncommon wine
English sparkling winemaker, The Uncommon, has launched its inaugural still English wine collection.
Crafted with The Uncommon’s ‘signature unconventional whimsy’ and attention to, the new range includes a white, rosé and red wine. Grapes are grown and handpicked in The Uncommon’s Kent vineyard and selected parcels from other growers in the Crouch Valley in Essex - the hottest and driest part of the UK.
These three new wines will join the B Corp winemakers existing range of two bubbly wines and two spritzers.
The wines will be available for on-trade distribution in a canned 187ml format, debuting with sports and entertainment hospitality provider Levy UK + Ireland and expanding to cricket, horse racing and tennis events this summer. The 250ml can format will then launch with select off-trade retailers later in July.
The still wine range encompasses:
- Clarence - Pinot Blanc & Bacchus - The Crisp English White (11.5% ABV). ‘Vibrant and fresh, with a burst of elderflower and a glint of gooseberry, Clarence is a kaleidoscope of peach-kissed sunbeams.’
- Penelope - Pinot Noir - The Pale English Rosé (11.5% ABV). ‘Dry, fruity and sumptuous, Penelope is a delightful little sonnet to strawberries, with rumours of raspberry and honeysuckle’.
- Percival - Pinot Noir - The Smooth English Red (12.5% ABV). ‘Luscious and vibrant, Percival is more decadent than a velvet-covered lilo. With a hit of cherry and a hint of oak, this light-bodied red is the perfect summer sip’.
The Uncommon’s existing range includes a Bubbly White (Gerald), Bubbly Rosé (Eleanor), Elderflower & Cucumber Wine Spritzer (Alfie) and Mint & Jasmine Rosé Spritzer (Peggy), which are available across Waitrose, M&S, Ocado, Fortnum & Mason, as well as numerous farm shops, delis and on trade venues.
Silent Pool Gin: Mediterranean Expression
Family-owned spirits company, William Grant & Sons, is introducing a travel retail exclusive Silent Pool Gin Mediterranean Expression.
As its name suggests, Silent Pool Gin Mediterranean Expression takes inspiration from a journey through the Mediterranean where botanicals and spices are abundant and varied. The distillers were inspired by the vibrant and zesty lemon and lime notes from Mediterranean citrus groves, the earthy undertones of Moroccan coriander seeds, and the pine-rich flavours of Italian juniper. Aromatic floral layers of honeysuckle and chamomile from Italy and olive leaf blend with the silkiness of Greek olive oil and the subtle richness of Spanish orange-blossom honey.
The launch of this new expression is timed to coincide with the peak summer holiday travelling period in Europe, and launches with activations at Gatwick airport in London.
Pastis-inspired aperitivo
UK non-alcoholic aperitivo company Botivo is launching its first-ever limited-edition product: a new aperitivo, inspired by the French aperitif pastis, made in collaboration with brasserie Maison Francois.
‘Maison Francois x Botivo Botanical Aperitivo’ is inspired by the ‘indulgent, sun-drenched world of Pastis’. The drink blends the aromatic and licorice notes of star anise and the fennel pollen found in pastis, with the floral essence of chamomile, and bitter undertones of artichoke and woody genitian root.
The drink should be served poured over ice and topped with soda or sparkling water, and garnished with a fresh bay leaf.
Imme Ermgassen, co-founder of Botivo said: "We are delighted to announce this limited-edition liquid in partnership with the world class French restaurant, Maison François. It has taken months of experimentation and hand crafting with unique ingredients to get to this delicate yet powerful combination.
“Inspired by the herbal, licorice notes of Pastis and handmade using no flavorings, by our maker and co-founder Sam, this is our first limited-edition flavor. It’s the ultimate indulgent non-alcoholic liquid."
Looking for more beverage NPD?
Watermelon kombucha and gin fizz feature in last week’s NPD round-up.
As does the tepache brand bringing a ‘modern, Mexican twist’ to the US better-for-you soda category…
