RTD NEWS
First Coca-Cola RTD launches in NZ COCA-COLA OCEANIA and its bottling partner Coca-Cola Europacific Partners have launched New Zealand’s very first alcoholic ready-to-drink made with Coca-Cola. Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola is available in retail multipacks in four key variants ranging from 4.8% ABV to 7% ABV and including the Coca-Cola Zero Sugar option. Also launching is a new range of RTDs combining Absolut Vodka and Sprite at 5% ABV. The range includes Absolut Vodka mixed with Sprite Zero Sugar and Absolut Vodka mixed with Sprite Pineapple. Wendy Rayner, Managing Director of Coca-Cola Europacific Partners New Zealand says: “We’re thrilled to bring these globally loved combinations to Kiwi consumers, offering premium convenience for summer. Retailers can expect strong consumer demand as we continue to grow in this space.” The launches signal continued growth in Coca-Cola’s alcohol portfolio and follow the release of Rum Co of Fiji, Fiji Dry last June. CCEP
New G&T from Scapegrace SCAPEGRACE DISTILLING Co. has unveiled its first canned Gin & Tonic. The new release pairs Scapegrace’s award-winning premium dry gin with Hawke’s Bay lemon. Scapegrace co-founder Mark Neal says the launch of the Scapegrace Gin & Tonic with Hawke’s Bay Lemon is a natural next step for the brand within the RTD category. “Scapegrace has always been about elevating the RTD experience with real distilled spirits, ready to drink,” said Neal. “We’ve seen incredible momentum in gin over the past decade, and this new release will sit alongside our existing Gin and Soda RTD offering.” Scapegrace Gin & Tonic with Hawke’s Bay Lemon 5% ABV 330ml 10-packs RRP $29.99 Hancocks
Besos hits the right sour note MEXICAN CHEF Luis Cabrera has added a new ready-to-serve cocktail to his margarita-based line-up with the launch of Besos Agave Sour. He describes it as his “refined take on a classic tequila sour”. Besos Agave Sour is full of punchy, bright citrus balanced by a hint of sweetness and just the right level of sourness with a satin-smooth finish. Besos Agave Sour 15% ABV, 700ml RRP $55 Besos Margarita
Marlborough’s VERA Wine Spritz debuts A NEW low-alcohol wine spritz designed for wine lovers and those new to wine has launched out of Marlborough. VERA Wine Spritz, co-owned by Michiel Eradus and Hayley McCairns, is a 5% ABV wine-based spritz. The pair say it is designed to reflect Marlborough’s quality and craftsmanship while delivering a lighter 18 DRINKSBIZ MARCH / APRIL 2026
more refreshing format that appeals to both wine and non-wine drinkers alike. The VERA range is available in: VERA Sauvignon Blanc & Elderflower Wine Spritz; VERA Pinot Gris & Golden Kiwifruit with Elderflower Wine Spritz; and VERA Rosé & Strawberry with Elderflower Wine Spritz. 250ml 4-pack RRP $19.99 Fresh Finds