Hard Rated 6%
Following innovations such as Alcoholic Lemon Zero Sugar and Alcoholic Lemon Lime Zero Sugar, Hard Rated has unveiled the newest permanent addition to the family, Hard Rated 6%.
The first higher alcohol version of the cult-classic RTD, Hard Rated 6% represents a step up in alcohol content when compared to the previous 4.5% offerings, resulting in a richer mouthfeel. Meanwhile, consumers should still expect the same lemon flavour for which the original SKU is renowned.
Available in both 4-pack and 10-pack product formats, the new release will support the existing range while responding to the growing trend towards higher alcohol RTDs. Each 330ml can has 1.6 standard drinks.
Peter Lehmann’s Wigan Riesling 2018
Peter Lehmann and Casella Family Brands have unveiled the 2018 vintage of its flagship Riesling, the Peter Lehmann Masters Wigan.
Sourced exclusively from Ben Zander’s high-altitude Wroxton vineyard in the Eden Valley, the latest vintage of Australia’s most awarded Riesling has already received widespread acclaim, including one platinum, five gold and one trophy across Australian wine shows. This builds upon its established pedigree, which includes being awarded Best Riesling in the World at the International Wine & Spirits Challenge on six different occasions.
Since 2003, the Peter Lehmann Masters Wigan Riesling has been named in honour of Andrew Wigan, Chief Winemaker from 1980 through to 2014. Andrew Wigan was personally mentored by Peter Lehmann, and was by his side when the winery was founded in 1979.
Peter Lehmann Masters Wigan Eden Valley Riesling 2018 is available now at an RRP of $50.
To read more about the 2018 vintage conditions and tasting notes, click here
Australian Vintage and Coles Liquor unveil Nepenthe Elevation
Adelaide Hills winery Nepenthe has partnered with Coles Liquor for the launch of Nepenthe Elevation, an exclusive premium wine collection with a focus on sustainability.
Available at Coles Liquor stores nationwide, the range includes three whites, two reds, and one rosé, all of which have been made using grapes sourced from Sustainable Wine Australia certified vineyards and bottles and labels made of 100% recyclable materials.
“Together, we’ve created a fantastic product that not only meets our sustainability targets but also provides an exclusive, premium experience for our customers,” Coles Liquor’s Business Category Manager for Wine James Kelly said.
The new collaborative release coincides with the growth of Australians prioritising sustainability in their purchasing decisions, with 74% of Australians now believing that regular recycling is the most impactful thing they can do for the environment.
Recognising this, Nepenthe Elevation’s packaging is validated by clear, third-party Trustmark’s displayed front and centre.
Chief Commercial Officer at Australian Vintage Tom Dusseldorp: “Our opportunity is to create a brand experience consumers can connect with on their own terms, one that is rich in integrity and reflects our commitment to crafting exceptional wines while reducing our environmental impact.”
Each of the Nepenthe Elevation releases are available now at $25 per bottle.
To read more about the collaborative release, click here
Dewar’s 21yo limited release whisky finished with Icelandic Magma Rock
For its latest limited release, Dewar’s has unveiled Double Double 21 Year Old Magma Stone Toasted, believed to be the first whisky made using barrels toasted with Icelandic magma rock.
“We believe we are the first whisky to use this technique,” says Stephanie Macleod, Master Blender. “We are always looking to push the boundaries and find new ways to do things, and this new finishing process has unlocked an entirely new spectrum of flavor for Scotch.”
By harnessing controlled, radiant heat from pre-heated Icelandic magma stones, the technique allows for a more precise, even toasting that is said to greatly enhance the whisky’s fruit-forward characteristics. Unlike traditional fire toasting, which relies on open flames, this method ensures uniform heat distribution across barrels, eliminating flare-ups that can cause inconsistent toast levels from cask to cask.
Before being used to toast the casks, the magma stones are heated using electricity, reducing reliance on combustion-based methods and lowering carbon emissions in barrel production.
The resultant Dewar’s Double Double 21 Year Old Magma Stone Toasted limited-edition whisky is described as being “exquisitely layered … [with] notes of cinnamon, cloves, creamy caramel, and baked apples, complemented by toasted cereal and a refined oak presence.”
The new limited-edition whisky has been bottled at 46% abv and carries a recommended retail price of USD $140, approximately AUD $220.
To read insights from Dewar’s Vice President North America, click here
Lyre’s non-alcoholic Mojito RTD
The world’s leading non-alcoholic brand Lyre’s has unveiled its latest ready-to-drink cocktail, a Mojito.
Featuring only 11 calories per 250ml can, the new release has been crafted using all natural ingredients, resulting in a full flavoured blend of mint, lime and subtle sweetness leading into a crisp dry finish.
“Lyre’s has always been committed to providing premium non-alcoholic alternatives that don’t compromise on flavour or experience,” said Marketing Manager Marc Romanin. “The Lyre’s Mojito embodies this mission, offering a healthier yet indulgent option for those who love a great cocktail but want to stay mindful of their sugar and calorie intake.”
Lyre’s Mojito is available nationwide now at $17 per 4-pack or $99 per case of 24.
Read the full article here