National Liquor News April 2022 by The Intermedia Group

AUSTRALIA’S LEADING LIQUOR INDUSTRY MAGAZINE

vol. 41 no. 3 - April 2022

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Save the date

Editor’s note

WE ENCOURAGE RESPONSIBLE DRINKING Get the facts DrinkWise.org.au

Welcome to the April issue of National Liquor News.

look at how no and low alcohol (NOLO) products

It’s hard to believe we’re already into the second

are performing, as they become more mainstream

quarter of 2022 – but everything has been so busy

amongst consumers. Meanwhile, from page 32, the

the time is flying by. This is another big issue from

team at IRI has delved into canned wine, identifying

National Liquor News, as we do everything we can

possible opportunities for the category in the future.

to keep you abreast of the most important news,

Elsewhere in this issue we have the latest insights

insights and analysis to help your business in the

and analysis from our incredible regular contributors,

month of April and beyond.

including Retail Drinks Australia, Alcohol Beverages

Some upcoming events we’ve analysed in this

Australia, Strikeforce, Wine Australia, Independent

issue are Mother’s Day and World Cocktail Day,

Brewers Association, Perfectly Rieslingable and

each providing a different kind of opportunity to a

eLease Lawyers. This is rounded out by the return

different kind of shopper. For example, in Norrelle

of our wine tasting panel, where our experts have

Goldring’s exploration of Mother’s Day, multiple

evaluated a range of Riesling and Semillon – we have

shopping missions are identified, as people head

the top scoring wines from page 62.

in-store with the occasion in mind (read more from

I hope you enjoy all of this content and more

page 34). However, World Cocktail Day provides

from this issue, as its always a pleasure putting it

an opportunity to excite customers about a new

together. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you

occasion when shopping, inspiring them to level

have any particular topics you’re interested in us

up their home bartending and try new products

looking into. See you next month!

for new reasons (read more from page 48). As usual, this issue also covers some categories of interest in the market right now. From page 38,

Cheers, Brydie

Seamus May reviews the current state of RTDs and hard seltzers, a booming sector that has several

Brydie Allen, Editor

angles to thank for its success. Then from page 52, we

02 8586 6156 ballen@intermedia.com.au

PUBLISHED BY: Food and Beverage Media Pty Ltd A division of The Intermedia Group 41 Bridge Road GLEBE NSW Australia 2037 Tel: 02 9660 2113 Fax: 02 9660 4419 Publisher: Paul Wootton pwootton@intermedia.com.au Editor: Brydie Allen ballen@intermedia.com.au Journalist: Seamus May smay@intermedia.com.au General Manager Sales – Liquor & Hospitality Group: Shane T. Williams stwilliams@intermedia.com.au Group Art Director – Liquor and Hospitality: Kea Thorburn kthorburn@intermedia.com.au Prepress: Tony Willson tony@intermedia.com.au Production Manager: Jacqui Cooper jacqui@intermedia.com.au Subscription Rates 1yr (11 issues) for $70.00 (inc GST) 2yrs (22 issues)for $112.00 (inc GST) – Saving 20% 3yrs (33 issues) for $147.00 (inc GST) – Saving 30% To subscribe and to view other overseas rates visit www.intermedia.com.au or Call: 1800 651 422 (Mon – Fri 8:30-5pm AEST) Email: subscriptions@intermedia.com.au

Top Newsletter reads ➤

“Vintage Cellars customers have always

R etailers get in the Mardi Gras spirit

been at the vanguard of fresh trends, whether that’s new wine varieties or the

➤

explosion of craft gin in recent years and

B DR expansion welcomed in Goldfields region

our re-imagined rewards program has been designed to reflect a broader range of customer preferences. “Wine will always be a hugely important part of our offering, however Australian drinking trends have evolved in line with the emergence of exceptional craft beers, boutique spirits, and premium global products, such as Japanese whisky.”

➤

R etailers pull Russian products off the shelf

April 2022 | 11

New board and management appointments at Retail Drinks Retail Drinks Australia has announced two new appointments, with Endeavour Group’s Michael James joining the Board as Chain Store Member, and Jonathan Russell joining the management team as Head of Policy & Advocacy. Retail Drinks CEO, Michael Waters, said:

Women of Australian Distilling launches new website

“Both Michael and Jonathan will be tremendous assets to Retail Drinks, particularly given their extensive career

The Women of Australian Distilling organisation has launched its new

experiences which will be of significant benefit to

website, which will help shine a light on female accomplishments in the

the Association as we continue the implementation

industry and encourage women to shape their passions into careers.

of our three-year strategic plan and continue to

Founded by Kathleen Davies in 2014, Women of Australian Distilling

build our momentum and on our solid foundation.”

has become an important industry collective to promote, encourage and

James joined Endeavour Group in February

support women and those who identify as women, within the Australian

2020 as Director of Operations and Supply Chain

craft distilling industry.

and has spent the majority of his career in retail.

The group brings together women distillers around Australia and the industry’s peak bodies including Women in Hospitality (WOHO), Spirits & Cocktails Australia, Australian Distillers Association, The Australian Gin

He said he was excited to be joining the Retail Drinks Board. “I have been fortunate to have spent several

Distillers Association, and is also proudly supported by Food & Beverage

decades immersed in the Australian retail sector

Media, the publisher of National Liquor News.

and I am grateful for the opportunity to bring

This fantastic initiative aims to support career development for women

the various insights I have gained throughout my

in diverse roles across the industry, including ambassadorship, marketing,

career to the Retail Drinks boardroom,” he said.

administration, management, cellar door operations and more. The group

Russell joins Retail Drinks from Engineers

will provide a hub for female-led trade and consumer events, courses,

Australia where he has held senior management

networking, mentoring and personal development.

roles within their policy and advocacy team for

The group will be supported by an advisory board with representatives

over six years, and said he was looking forward

across the industry to help lead change. The board also provides a

to further advancing Retail Drinks’ various policy

development opportunity for its female participants to gain experience

priorities in all Australian jurisdictions.

acting on a board, through the mentorship and support of Paul McLeay, Chief Executive of Australian Distillers. Visit Women of Australian Distilling’s new website to get involved

“Having worked in policy and advocacy positions for more than 15 years, including at other national industry associations, I am intimately

and to subscribe to be notified about upcoming events and programs:

familiar with the challenge of delivering positive

www.womenofaustraliandistilling.com/

policy outcomes at both a national and state and

Read more of this story including some background about Women of Australian Distilling via The Shout here: https://bit.ly/3D3nWL1

territory government level and look forward to representing the Australian retail liquor industry,” he said.

12 | National Liquor News

Changing Rank

BrightSide announces recent placements Amber King and Sue Lauritz, Directors at BrightSide Executive Search, have been trusted advisors to the drinks industry for well over a decade. It’s been a busy start to the year for BrightSide with the search for talent as demanding as ever! They have shared some of their recent placements and acknowledged an ongoing need for exceptional sales, marketing and digital/e-commerce candidates. BrightSide is the only dedicated drinks recruitment specialist nationally and has recently expanded their own team with Luke Jovanoski joining as Talent Manager.

Campari has welcomed

Rob Cooper’s capability

Lizzy Hewitt is utilising

Omar Fallah is enjoying

LMG is staying ahead

Amanda Fenner to its

experience will be a

her organisational skills

his transition into the

of the game with

QLD team in the role

huge addition to the

in LMG’s VIC team as

liquor industry as

Cassandra Prats as

of Trade Activation

Coopers Sales Teams as

the Merchandising &

Area Sales Manager

the new Digital Brand

Manager.

the new FSM VIC.

Admin Coordinator.

for Coopers.

Manager elevating their retail presence.

Coopers is loving the

Estrella Damm’s new

Handpicked Wines

BrightSide is looking

work Hugh Dunipace

Brand Ambassador Jen

has appointed Sarah

forward to seeing

is doing for the

Mullens is adding value

MacMahon as Export

Luke Jovanoski’s skills

portfolio down the

with her extensive

Manager to support

in action as the new

Surf-Coast as an

industry networks

and drive ongoing

Talent Manager for VIC.

Area Sales Manager.

in QLD

brand success.

Moët Hennessy is loving the bespoke activations of Sarah Campbell as the new Channel Marketing Manager On-Premise

For more information go to www.brightside.careers or to look for current opportunities check out the BrightSide LinkedIn page: www.linkedin.com/company/bright-side-executive-search

April 2022 | 13

Marketplace Brand news and promotions

Archie Rose launches White Cane Spirit Archie Rose has released an Aussie twist on white rum, following on from last year’s High Test Molasses Rum expression. Inspired both by Sydney’s history of rum distilling and Master Distiller Dave Withers’ love of great rum, this bottling joins the Archie Rose core range. “The history of rum production in Australia runs deep and the city of Sydney itself is affiliated with countless stories about rum trade, production and celebration,” Withers said. “These narratives are part of what has shaped Sydney, and we’re thrilled to continue the tradition with the release of White Cane – our showcase of an Aussie-made white cane spirit.” Production of this white rum occurred at Archie Rose’s new distillery in Botany, with the spirit cold distilled using new equipment and technology. Unlike previous white rum releases,

Seasonal campaigns and fresh new look sees success for Thirsty Camel Thirsty Camel is celebrating a new look at the start of another successful seasonal campaign this Easter, after seeing great results from its national summer campaign. The national summer campaign ran from December 2021 to January 2022, with creative and content featuring products from every category, ensuring relevance to the broadest possible range of shoppers. The

which have been Australian versions of the classic rhum agricole style (made with the fresh pressed sugar cane juice), White Cane has been created using high-test NSW molasses. The final product is described as a ‘vibey, easy, elegant drink with a pillowy softness and refreshing finish’ with tasting notes including golden syrup, pineapple, marshmallows and subtle mint. Archie Rose recommends trying this spirit in any

campaign reached over 3.2 million Australian adults, through everything

number of classic rum cocktails including mojitos

from outdoor billboards, digital content, a radio campaign and the first

and daiquiris. The distillery hopes that White Cane

ever national Thirsty Camel catalogue.

will prolong the summer a little longer – suggesting

The retail group also drew wide attention with its $1k a day promotion, which saw Thirsty Camel give away $28,000 to customers throughout the campaign. Now, Thirsty Camel is building on this success with its ‘Easter is Calling’ campaign, which will reach over 4.5 million adults in Australia during the Easter and long weekend period. Featuring a range of relevant products for all types of occasion over Easter, the campaign will also hero the fresh new Thirsty Camel look, which is filtering through to in-store, online and campaigns in the coming months. A refresh to the brand is helping keep Thirsty Camel on top of its game, after being launched by a ‘spontaneous bunch of publicans’ nearly 15 years ago. Known for being a loveable maverick of the liquor world, Thirsty Camel is proud to show off its latest development, and will be adding to the fun with a special radio promotion, which will ask consumers to call in with their best ‘camel call’ to win prizes like Thirsty Camel gift cards.

14 | National Liquor News

drinkers ‘conjure those halcyon days in the depths of winter, as you swan around your living room in a robe, Piña Colada in hand.’

Marketplace

De Bortoli launches its first organic Shiraz De Bortoli has launched the 2020 Organic Shiraz Field Blend, the company’s first organic wine, highlighting its commitment to sustainable winemaking.

Furphy Crisp rolls out across Australia Following an initial successful launch in Victoria in 2020,

De Bortoli is ultimately aiming to be a zero waste wine

Lion has now announced the interstate rollout of Furphy

company, and its journey to that goal is shown through this

Crisp Lager, so it can finally be enjoyed by Furphy-loving

release, which is vegan friendly and is also packaged in

Australians nationwide.

lightweight recycled bottles. The winemaker said: “With a vision for a future where great

Furphy Crisp is a full-strength lager at 4.5 per cent ABV, and is the second release from the Furphy brand. The

wine and a healthy environment can be enjoyed by everyone,

interstate launch of this sessionable beer is accompanied

De Bortoli has released its first Organic Shiraz. Handcrafted

by a pack refresh, with a new red label and clear glass

from the Hemley vineyard in the Riverina, which has met the

bottle to stand apart from the darker tones of the original

Australian Certified Organic standards, each grape that was

Furphy stubby, while also showcasing the light and

picked to make the 2020 De Bortoli Organic Shiraz Field Blend

refreshing colour of the new beer.

is instrumental for the varietal purity.

Lion’s Portfolio Director Craft and

“Organic farming accentuates flavour in other natural

Premium, Malcolm Eadie, said the

produce such as fruits and vegetables, and it is the same for

expansion meets a strong demand

wine too. Wines made from organically grown grapes have

from Australians for ‘easy drinking’

more intense and evocative flavours.”

products, which has grown to become the largest segment of the beer category. “We’re stoked to be expanding Furphy Crisp Lager beyond Victoria’s borders to meet the demand for a more sessionable beer,” Eadie said. Furphy Crisp is available now in NSW, SA and the NT, and will be rolled out in WA from the end of this month. It has an RRP of $53 per 24-pack carton.

Batch & Co launches new premium cocktail RTDs Australian drinks brand Batch & Co has built on its popular wine based spritz range with the launch of a new line of premium RTD cocktails. The new range comes in 230ml cans and includes Gin & Prosecco, Strawberry Daiquiri, Margarita, Cosmo, Espresso Martini and Negroni SKUs. Co-founder Thomas Kiltorp, said: “The new range comes at a time when the canned cocktail category is booming, owing largely to shifting consumer habits, recent pandemic lockdowns, and a new drive to get creative with their drinks. People are ultimately looking to experiment with mixed drinks in an easy, convenient, and affordable way. “Via our new cocktail collection, Batch & Co remains committed to its promise to deliver the same consistent, top-quality drinks every time and without any of the fuss, ingredient-sourcing or tools.” April 2022 | 15

Marketplace

Starward recruits next generation of whisky drinkers Starward is recruiting the next generation of whisky drinkers with its range of approachable whiskies. Australian whisky is experiencing dynamic growth (+30 per cent MAT) and Starward is fuelling that growth, accounting for 61 per cent of incremental sales (volume MAT). Leading the way is Starward Two-Fold; a double grain whisky made from Australian barley and wheat, fully matured in red wine barrels locally sourced from our famed Australian wine regions. The result is an approachable and versatile whisky, crafted to be enjoyed any way you like. Made to be spritzed, mixed or shaken, this whisky is delicious when sipped neat and shines in refreshingly mixed

a whisky that was approachable and smooth was imperative

Tribe Breweries unveils new brand identity for upcoming product launches

to entice new drinkers to the whisky category.

Tribe Breweries has unveiled the new identities of some of its

drinks and cocktails. Starward Distillery Founder, David Vitale, said that creating

“Our Two-Fold whisky is an extremely accessible Australian whisky both in terms of taste profile and price. The flavours that come out of the Australian wheat brings a lightness to the

‘better for you’ beer brands, including Wilde Brewing Co and Mornington Peninsula Brewery. The new look for Wilde, which is renowned for its two core

whisky that makes it so easily mixable and deliciously sippable

gluten free beers, includes a colourful packaging and logo

for whisky fans and cocktail lovers, alike,” he said.

update, and a switch from bottles to can format. It comes

Starward’s Two Fold whisky retails for $69.99 and is distributed by SouthTrade International.

ahead of the introduction of two new products to its range later this year, alongside the move to provide the core range in increased pack sizes of 16. Supplementing this is the packaging change of Mornington Peninsula Brewery, which has a new look just in time for the launch of a new non-alcoholic beer, Mornington Free XPA. It’s the second non-alcoholic beer for the brand and features the new packaging which moves the logo front and centre, with stronger colours and more coastal cues in reference to the Mornington Peninsula area. Roland Thiemann, Head of Innovation at Tribe Breweries said: “Mindful drinking is no longer just a fad or trend, but a way of life that many Aussies are adopting. And so, as they embrace this, Tribe Breweries brands like Wilde and Mornington Free want to ensure that there are incredible NOLO alternatives available to them that are better for them, whilst also ensuring they don’t compromise on flavour or quality.”

One to watch

16 | National Liquor News

More new products are set to be announced by Tribe Breweries in coming months, including one which has been described as a “first-tocategory” in Australia.

Marketplace

Four Pillars launches Fresh Yuzu Gin After several limited-edition releases of yuzu-based gins over the last few years, Four Pillars has launched Fresh Yuzu Gin as a permanent addition to its core range. This was driven by the popularity of the last yuzu limited release in 2020 in collaboration with local producer Mountain Yuzu, which supplied Four Pillars with fresh local yuzu fruit. Of the tasting notes, Four Pillars Co-founder and Distiller, Cam Mackenzie, said: “Yuzu brings amazing aromatics that are a mix of lemon, mandarin, cumquat and grapefruit – all bright and fresh citrus notes – while the addition of finger lime adds some deeper citrus character. “We’ve learnt a lot (from the best) in our adventures making gin with Japanese friends, so in our take on yuzu gin, we’ve used ginger, turmeric and sencha genmaicha, a Japanese green tea with roasted brown rice, for depth of flavour. A canvas of strong pine-needle juniper and a bit of lemon myrtle add a touch of lemon curd.” The gin, at 41.8 per cent ABV and $80 RRP, will roll out to bottle shops throughout Australia this month.

New wine company launches in the Hunter Valley The NSW Hunter Valley has welcomed a new wine company with a message of female empowerment and modern feminism at its core. Wild Wren Wines is owned and operated by Renee Burton (previously Co-founder and Owner of Gundog Estate), and launches with a Semillon, Shiraz, Gruner Veltliner, Vermentino, Sangiovese and GSM. A Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and a fortified will be released later this year, with all wines created in collaboration with Burton’s friend and winemaker, Scotty Comyns. “I’ve lived and breathed the wine and tourism business for

Matilda Bay releases Rejected Ales collection When Phil Sexton and the brewing team at Matilda Bay were creating the brewery’s flagship Original Ale, they rejected 27

years, working on joint projects or other people’s passions. Wild Wren Wines is 100 per cent me and it’s my message to my two daughters and other girls out there that you can take control of your destiny,” Burton said. Once established, Wild Wren Wines plans to create a program

near perfect brews along the way and that collection of 27

for young female entrepreneurs to build their self-esteem and

beers is now being released as the Rejected Ales.

realise their potential.

With names like ‘Yeah…nah’ and ‘Ballpark’ the beers tell the story not only of their own rejection, but the team’s journey to creating the award-winning Original Ale. Sexton said: “We’ve crafted beer to perfection our own way since 1983. If a batch doesn’t meet our impeccably high standards, we reject it. It might be a bit commercially reckless, but it’s just the way we do things around here. “So, to demonstrate our dedication to crafting the perfect beer, we’re letting Aussies try our not quite perfect enough Rejected Ales. Which, after our Original Ale, are hopefully the second best beers you’ll taste.”

18 | National Liquor News

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Alcohol Beverages Australia

The truth about drinking stats in the pandemic Alcohol retail sales may be going up, but looking at the full picture of data shows this doesn’t mean more consumption and harm, writes Andrew Wilsmore, CEO of Alcohol Beverages Australia In what increasingly feels like groundhog day, ABA has had to

Andrew Wilsmore CEO Alcohol Beverages Australia

0.6 per cent currently, and that this has been declining over time.

once again correct and explain the facts around COVID drinking

This is further supported by the AIHW Alcohol and Other Drug

after groups like the Foundation for Alcohol Research & Education

Treatment Services report, which has shown over the most recent

(FARE) and the Alcohol & Drug Foundation (ADF) once again

10 year period that, proportionally, treatment for alcohol in relation

suggested that an increase in ABS retail trade data (packaged alcohol

to all other drugs has decreased from 47 per cent to 34 per cent

sales) is evidence that drinking and alcohol-related harms have

of treatment episodes. On a pure treatment number basis, alcohol

increased during the pandemic.

treatments have fallen from a high of 23,491 in 2010-11 down to

With the closure, or quasi closure of hospitality, duty-free, tourism, and events, unsurprisingly there has been a corresponding rise in retail sales as Australians simply shifted their purchase channel.

20,326 in 2019-20, against the tide of a rising population. State crime data indicates the trend line showing reductions in alcohol-related domestic violence continued to decline during

Packaged retail sales are a value figure, which naturally increases

COVID restrictions, with the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and

twice yearly through CPI increases on beer, spirits and brandy; and

Research stating: “There is no evidence of an increase in domestic

from Australians choosing higher value offerings.

violence related assault coinciding with the introduction of strict

They do not reflect what is happening to overall volumes, with

social isolation requirements.”

weekly clearance data from the Australian Taxation Office showing

Finally, the intimation that “alcohol companies have been making

volumes of beer and spirits declining in the pre-pandemic FY19

super profits” is a sweeping generalisation which is not supported by

from 142 million litres of pure alcohol to 134 million litres in FY21.

evidence. It is offensive to the thousands of Australians who lost their

This story is replicated for wine with a recent Wine Australia report

job in our sector at the height of the pandemic, and the many proud

showing a three per cent decline in domestic wine volumes.

businesses that were the heart of community who were forced to close.

And the forthright calls that alcohol-related harms have also

No one is saying there aren’t issues with alcohol. There are and

increased during COVID contrasts sharply with Australian

more needs to be done to tackle the array of social and cultural

Government data from the Australian Institute of Health & Welfare

drivers leading some people to drink at excessive levels. We

(AIHW), whose most recent December 2021 report showed

welcome the opportunity to work constructively with government,

continued reductions in harmful consumption, particularly among

DrinkWise, and public health groups on effective measures to reduce

the young.

alcohol related harm.

In contrast to the use of a personal anecdote from the Australasian

Pleasingly, Australians have clearly heeded the responsible

College for Emergency Medicine, a Deloitte analysis of official data

consumption message that has been pushed by governments and

from the AIHW indicates that alcohol is responsible for a small and

the industry. It is unfortunate that FARE and ADF have sought to

declining share of emergency department presentations, around

mislead Australians about their consumption patterns.

22 | National Liquor News

■

Retail Drinks Australia

Earlier this year, the Western Australian Government announced that, as part of its proof of vaccination policy, a wide range of public venues would be required to ensure each of their customers provided proof of double-dose vaccination against COVID-19. When this policy was first announced in January, the list of venues included all bricks and mortar and drive-through bottle shops throughout the state. Retail Drinks, alongside several other industry and community stakeholders, were opposed to extending proof of vaccination mandates to liquor stores. The policy contrasted with the categorisation of the liquor retail industry throughout the pandemic which had been considered as an ‘essential service’ across all Australian states and territories, with stores able to remain open throughout various lockdowns and stay-at-home orders. The requirement for liquor stores to provide proof of vaccination resulted in a rapid and significant escalation in the number of violent incidents from customers, with staff members at the coalface subject to some of the worst verbal and physical abuse I have ever come across. In responding to this situation, Retail Drinks engaged extensively with the Western Australian Government on behalf of the industry to highlight these staff safety issues, including directly with the Premier and various Ministerial offices. We also worked in close collaboration with members on the ground as well as other industry and community stakeholders, including the Shop, Distributive & Allied Employees’ Association (SDA) of WA as this situation was unfolding and the danger to staff safety became apparent.

An advocacy win for proof of vaccination in WA Retail Drinks CEO, Michael Waters, discusses how the organisation successfully advocated for liquor stores to be removed from the list of WA venues where proof of vaccination must be shown.

Following these major advocacy efforts, it was announced by the WA Government on 18 February – 18 days after the requirements commenced – that liquor stores had been removed from the list of venues requiring customers to provide proof of vaccination, with immediate effect. Throughout the entire COVID-19 pandemic, Retail Drinks has been strongly committed to ensuring the safety of liquor store staff and their customers and was grateful to the WA Government for taking prompt and decisive action to address these concerns. With cases of COVID-19 still circulating in the community nationwide, we continue to promote our Social Distancing Guidelines for Retail Liquor Stores, to minimise the risk of transmission in the retail environment. Retail Drinks is enormously proud of its advocacy efforts, working proactively and collaboratively with all Australian

Michael Waters CEO Retail Drinks Australia

governments to achieve policy solutions for its members, particularly throughout the last two years as the industry has faced some of the biggest challenges it has ever seen.

■

April 2022 | 23

Leasing

Repair and maintenance obligations in commercial leases

Marianna Idas, Principal Solicitor at eLease Lawyers, discusses some common things to watch out for in commercial leases.

Marianna Idas Principal Solicitor eLease Lawyers

It is important to obtain legal advice on your

the building or the premises. It is advisable

to effect repairs, it is often construed as

commercial lease to understand your rights

for your lawyer to ensure that certain clauses

dependent on the tenant first giving the

and obligations before committing to the

are inserted to protect your interests.

landlord notice to repair. Therefore, tenants

lease. In particular, leases have many clauses

must ensure the notice requirement in the

that relate to repair and maintenance,

Most common complaint by tenants

lease is strictly complied with. For example,

including who is meant to do what works

A dispute that often arises is who is

the lease could state that notice is only given

and at whose expense.

responsible when an air conditioning unit

if it is in writing, signed by the tenant and

In general, the following applies unless

fails. If there is no express obligation on the

posted to the address of the landlord noted

a clause is inserted into the lease to the

landlord to repair and replace the unit, they

in the lease.

contrary:

are not required to do anything. The tenant

There is no obligation for the landlord

is then left with a unit that is not operational

Remedies

to provide the premises in proper repair

and very expensive to repair and replace. If

Consideration should be given to the

at the start of the lease. Thus, tenants

the tenant requires the unit functional for

remedies contemplated by the parties. For

should do a thorough walk-through to

their use of the premises, then it is up to

example, a tenant may terminate or receive

ensure the premises are suitable and fit

them to pay all costs associated. If this is not

decreased rent if the landlord does not

for their purpose.

budgeted or anticipated, then this can put a

perform its obligations under the lease.

Unless a statute or the lease expressly

large strain on a tenant’s business. A lawyer

A clause such as this will incentivise the

states the tenant is required to repair

specialising in commercial leasing should

landlord to comply with the lease. Generally,

and maintain the leased property,

be aware of these issues and ensure relevant

the tenant’s lawyer would need to request

there is no implied obligation upon the

clauses are inserted into the lease to avoid

this clause to be inserted as it is not typically

tenant to do so in common law.

this situation from occurring.

offered at first instance by the landlord.

If there is no obligation on the tenant

In most states, if the lease is classified as

to be responsible for the repair, this

a retail lease, then certain clauses that make

Tenant warnings

does not automatically shift onto the

the tenant pay for capital and structural

Obligations upon tenants in leases are

landlord.

repairs are void. Additionally, if there is

usually extensive and can be onerous. Care

The landlord has no maintenance and

a contribution into a sinking fund by the

must be taken here to identify all hidden

repair obligation in relation to the

tenant for this purpose, this type of clause

costs before signing a lease.

premises over the course of the lease.

is also void.

Generally, most leases do not contain

A lawyer specialising in commercial leases will identify your rights and obligations and

any obligation on the landlord to repair and

Notice

seek amendments to your benefit to decrease

maintain the landlord’s plant and equipment,

If a clause specifies that the landlord is

your costs under the lease.

24 | National Liquor News

■

Independent Brewers Association

A difficult decision for the better The Independent Brewers Association has pivoted to a different kind of events calendar this year to ensure the best outcomes for members, writes CEO, Kylie Lethbridge.

Since our last update, the world for the

and commencing work on an industry

Independent Brewers Association has

diversity plan.

changed somewhat…

• Expanding our current efforts in the

While many in the events and conference

education and training space with

industry are still very much affected by the

the ultimate aim of finding national

pandemic, the IBA has made the difficult

alignment/solutions to address the skills

decision to shift the annual calendar of events and activities to ensure members are delivered maximum benefit. As a result, Good Beer Week 2022 has been cancelled and BrewCon will be rescheduled to August 2023. This decision will help us to conserve our

“By implementing this change, we feel we are responding to what members need from the Association and evolving to the next level in terms of delivering on industry needs.”

limited resources and enables the association

Kylie Lethbridge

to adapt resources into new, smaller

CEO Independent Brewers Association

activations that will give the organisation more flexibility to better engage with members while providing more resources, programs and networking opportunities.

for navigating regulatory obligations, funding and business models, and more.

shortage of brewers. • C ontinuing and expanding the state/ territory/regional based activities. • Focussing our efforts on working with other beer event organisers to introduce the Indie Seal and experiences. • Launching our national direct to consumer Indie Seal awareness campaign and building ‘the indie story’ on our consumer channels. • Ramping up our cooperative partnerships with the trade.

• Introducing state/regional networking

• We will also push on with the work in

It is disappointing, but there is an air of

lunches and a rolling schedule of

progress activities, for example, our

excitement about the alternate plans in place

networking events we call ‘Mash Ups’. If we

advocacy efforts, working with FSANZ

and services that will be offered to our 535

can’t come together as an industry in one

on the codesign process for the proposed

members. Some of our new plans include:

place, we will take the IBA to our members!

energy labelling, and responding to state

• L aunching the IBA 10 year roadmap

• Implementing the Independent Beer Awards

licensing, planning and regulation reviews.

(the Indies) Review which will address some

By implementing this change, we feel we are

• Working intensively with project groups,

of the challenges we experienced in 2021.

responding to what members need from the

state chapter leads and partners to prioritise

The Indies is the one key event that will be

Association and evolving to the next level

and deliver key actions outlined in the 10

retained in 2022.

in terms of delivering on industry needs.

recently developed by KPMG.

year plan, including: shared technology

• Implementing a new partnership program

The IBA can assure that when the

platforms/systems, group buying power,

that provides greater and more curated

industry does get together in Queensland

technical guides, sales tools, HR and legal

benefit for our industry partners.

for BrewCon 2023, that it will be bigger and

services, sustainability programs, guidelines

• L aunching our new HR toolkit

better than ever.

■

April 2022 | 25

Strikeforce

Hasten with caution? New entrants to market are coming thick and fast to the off-premise, but its important to not forget the well-loved classics in all this noise, writes Stephen Wilson, Category and Insights Manager at Strikeforce.

There has been a quiet evolution taking place in liquor stores, both large and small, across the country.

The success of some of these category ‘stars’ is great to observe and when there are other brands

The on-premise trade has been largely off limits

that tap into the new growth trend created, there is a

due to state government COVID-driven mandates

real need to manage the amount of space allocated so

and density restrictions, and brands have had little

that traditional brands that demand their fair share of

choice but to reach out to drinkers through the

shelf and space are not sidelined.

off-premise. So naturally, new entrants have been appearing across the channel and placing space pressure on existing brands. Innovation has been a constant across the offpremise channel, particularly for beer and ready to drink categories and sections of the store. There has been a fair bit of excitement off the back of this innovation and during a recent field visit, it was

Has this made it a better or worse shopping experience for customers? Depends on the shopper, store location and occasion so there is no definitive answer. Think about the difference, for example, between the needs of the tradie who is after a six-pack on the way home from work, and the craft beer drinker who loves exploring new brands.

noticeable the significant amount of fridge space that

Their needs are completely different with the

has been dedicated to emerging products or categories

tradie wanting easy access to their favourite brand

like the recent wave of gin-based RTD products, hard

in a minimal time frame, compared to the craft beer

seltzers or the latest hazy pales to hit the market.

drinker who is happy to browse and make a more

For balance, store visits were made to big box,

considered choice before they make their decision.

attached bottled shops and independents and my

My point is that all drinkers’ needs must be taken

observation is that classic and mainstream beer six-

into consideration when deciding what brands are

packs and singles were being positioned on shelf and

ranged. How many IPAs is enough? How many hard

in cool rooms away or adjacent to the latest craft or

seltzers should be ranged before the choice becomes

NPD offerings.

overwhelming? Is there still enough space allocated

This also appeared to be the case for mainstream cider and RTD brands.

to leading RTD brands? The right balance between new and emerging and

Due to the number of new brands, some well-loved

mainstream brands is critical to meeting customer

classic brands appeared to be ‘lost’ in the plethora of

needs, retaining a loyal shopper base and maintaining

colours and on-shelf noise.

a healthy bottom line.

26 | National Liquor News

■

“The right balance between new and emerging and mainstream brands is critical to meeting customer needs, retaining a loyal shopper base and maintaining a healthy bottom line.” Stephen Wilson Category & Insights Manager Strikeforce

Retailer Profile

A good reason to shop local Bill Davidson, Owner of Fleet Street Epping under the Independent Liquor Group banner, describes how he has utilised good products, good value and good service to give the community the best reasons to shop local.

In the suburb of Epping in Sydney’s north-

products in my neighbourhood. If you put

active digital presence for the store, utilising

west, the local community enjoys a fresh

that back in the community, what I’ve seen

ILG’s systems but also social media and

taste of premium retail with a relatively new

is that the locals come down and treat this

external platforms to boost awareness and

store under the Independent Liquor Group’s

place like theirs,” Davidson explained.

online abilities, again to suit the needs of the

(ILG) Fleet Street banner.

“Whatever business you’re running,

local customer.

Owner of this store is Bill Davidson, who

there’s three cornerstones to what you’ve got

But as Davidson pointed out, it’s not

actually has a professional background in

to provide - good product, at good value,

solely customer needs that are met with

the media but wanted to get back to his roots

with good service.”

this philosophy about delivering the best.

in liquor - he grew up close-by the industry

There are several components to

He has found this to be super important for

Davidson’s philosophy to deliver on these

maintaining relationships of success with

What Davidson set out to achieve with

cornerstones and keep the community

suppliers too.

Fleet Street Epping was something stylish

feeling welcome and satisfied with Fleet

“A better looking shop brought a better

that really fit into the local neighbourhood

Street Epping. One core part of this has been

looking product with a stronger relationship

and reflected the tastes of the community.

to keep things fresh and new in the product

from our suppliers… If you can find suppliers

He started this endeavour on the site of

offering, searching for products that fit the

that are on the same path as you, then you’ll

another liquor store, overhauling the

needs of the local clientele.

see growth in your business. I’ve found that

in his family’s large country hotel.

philosophy, outlook and offering of the

“We’ve increased craft, we’ve increased

with about 20 suppliers which I treat as

shop, while also revolutionising the fit out

wine and we’ve increased spirits, all at a

partners, not just suppliers,” Davidson said.

and branding with the help of ILG. The end

price point that suits our neighbourhood

Independent retailers who nail all these

result is unrecognisable to what it once was,

and beyond, and everything has grown

elements to their business will be the most

and this renovation is what Davidson has

exponentially from there. We don’t specialise

successful, according to Davidson. Consumers

described as “the most successful thing” that

in anything, we just specialise in finding the

already want to support local businesses, but

has ever happened to the store.

type of product that the neighbourhood

they won’t if they aren’t getting a good product,

wants to buy,” Davidson said.

good value and/or good service.

“I’m a local community bottle shop, I’m not trying to be a major retailer. I’m not a ‘big

The thirst for a new, interesting and fun

He said: “You can’t just expect people to

beer barn’ on a major road, I’m a community

outlook also extends past the product range

shop local, you’ve got to give them a reason

based liquor store that’s providing good

for the business too. Davidson maintains an

to shop local.”

■

April 2022 | 27

Image credit: Aotearoa NZ Fine Wine Estates 2021

New Zealand Wine

New Zealand’s 2022 vintage early outlook As vintage 2022 is carried out across the ditch, growers are alert and optimistic for a positive season, writes Natalie Grace, Founder of Perfectly Rieslingable.

At the time of writing, harvest is in full swing in many

to friends and family, wine club members and even

parts of New Zealand, with the first grapes harvested

calling on the retiree community, all hands are on

in the northern parts of the country in mid-February.

deck to get the grapes from vine to crate at the busiest

Ongoing international demand and low stock

time of year.

levels has producers hoping for a significantly larger harvest this year compared to the low yields of vintage 2021 which was 19 per cent smaller than the previous year. New Zealand Winegrowers reported wine sales for 2021 were 324 million litres (48 million litres more than what was actually produced in the 2021 vintage), a stock drawdown that highlights the need for a bigger harvest in 2022 to replenish cellars and help satisfy strong international demand. Early reports from the regions indicate the good growing season has positioned vintage 2022 well, however it hasn’t been without its challenges. La Niña weather patterns strengthened over the second half of the season with spells of hot days, high humidity and significant rainfall events in a number of regions,

From crate to tank to bottle, the finished product

“Early reports from the regions indicate the good growing season has positioned vintage 2022 well, however it hasn’t been without its challenges.” Natalie Grace Perfectly Rieslingable Wine New Zealand

will more than likely end up on its way to the United States, United Kingdom, Australia or Canada. New Zealand Winegrowers statistics indicate MAT January 2022 growth was up nine per cent to the USA but down 20 per cent to the UK, 22 per cent to Australia and two per cent to Canada. Performance of other markets tracked is mixed with China the strongest performer with a 37 per cent increase, though off a small base of just one per cent of the total exported. Of the country’s most popular style, Sauvignon Blanc shipments sit at 231.6m litres, down 13 per cent from the previous year (MAT January 2022) with production of Sauvignon Blanc in 2022 estimated to have been 207m litres, 18 per cent down on the

creating powdery pressure and keeping growers on

previous year. Export shipments of vintage 2022

the lookout for botrytis.

Sauvignon Blanc since release now total 144.1 m litres

The peak of Omicron case numbers in the

or 70 per cent of estimated production. Performance

community occurring as the country heads into

of other styles is mixed, with Pinot Noir shipments

harvest weighs heavily, compounded by a shortage

increasing just one per cent to 10.6m litres, closely

of labour the industry has been experiencing for more

followed by Pinot Gris at 9.5m litres, a decrease of 10

than the past 12 months. From office and sales staff,

per cent from the previous year.

28 | National Liquor News

■

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Wine Australia

The huge NOLO opportunity for Australian wine No and low alcohol wines are growing at an incredible rate, showing excellent opportunity for local producers, writes Peter Bailey, Manager, Market Insights at Wine Australia. In 2020, no and low alcohol (NOLO) wines accounted

According to Wine Intelligence, 39 per cent of regular

for just 9.3 million cases globally, less than half of one

wine drinkers globally claim to be reducing their

per cent of total consumption, according to IWSR.

alcohol intake. The figure for Australia is 46 per cent

However, the growth rate for this category has been

across all ages, and 56 per cent of the 18–34 age group.

well above that of the total wine market. Between

The same result is found in our key export markets

2015–20, the average annual growth rate was 25 per

including the United Kingdom and United States of

cent. The growth rate forecast by IWSR for the next five

America. Wine Intelligence also reported that the

years (2021–25) is 15 per cent per annum on average,

proportions of regular wine drinkers choosing no

compared with less than one per cent per annum for

alcohol or low alcohol alternative products were 14

total wine volume.

per cent and 13 per cent respectively.

“The growth rate for this category has been well above that of the total wine market.”

Australian wine held a five per cent volume share

Recently the government of South Australia

and three per cent value share of the global NOLO

announced a nearly $5 million investment in the

market in 2020. This equates to 500,000 cases valued

state’s wine grape sector to help with the development

Peter Bailey

at US$36.4 million, split as follows:

of NOLO wines and wines low in calories, for both

• No alcohol – 407,000 cases at US$31.6 million, and

new and traditional wine consumers.

Manager, Market Insights Wine Australia

• Low alcohol – 67,000 cases at US$4.8 million.

The new project will establish a trial scale

While no and low alcohol products are often referred to

spinning cone production facility at the University

as a single category, there are some significant differences

of Adelaide’s winery to facilitate new product

between the two that should be considered when

development by the sector, undertake research to

evaluating the opportunity for a particular product.

improve the taste and mouthfeel of NOLO wines,

According to IWSR, low alcohol wine accounted

better understand the market drivers and ensure any

for 66 per cent of the global NOLO category in 2020

regulatory hurdles for NOLO wines are anticipated

and had more than double the value growth of the

and overcome.

no alcohol segment. However, for Australian wine

The project funded by the investment is designed

consumed globally, no alcohol accounted for 86 per

to help the state’s wine sector to deliver high quality

cent of consumption and had more than three times

products that can take advantage of the significant

the growth of low-alcohol wine.

market opportunities in the NOLO sector. The project

Underpinning these figures is a global trend

will be delivered in partnership with Wine Australia,

towards alcohol moderation and improved health and

Australian Wine Research Institute (AWRI), University

wellbeing, particularly among younger demographics.

of Adelaide and the South Australian Government.

30 | National Liquor News

■

Sponsored Content

ALM works on becoming a truly frictionless company Chris Baddock, CEO of Australian Liquor Marketers, said this year the business continues to be focused on delivering the absolute best for all partners and its network of Independent Brands Australia (IBA) stores. 2022 marks the fourth year that Chris

built upon alongside other retail services this

Across all areas of the company this

Baddock has been CEO of Australian Liquor

year. Powered by world class technology and

year, Baddock said the goal is to build a

Marketers (ALM) and it’s tipped to be another

millions of dollars of continued investment,

truly frictionless business that is easy to

strong one for the company, as it seeks to

these sites ensure IBA retailers have a high

deal with, as cost effective as possible

consistently deliver on customer expectations

performing platform which benefits from

and uses a customer centric approach to

surrounding both ALM and the Independent

ALM’s range of abilities.

support all partners.

Brands Australia (IBA) network of stores.

“Simply put, ALM is here to offer

This focus fits into ALM’s mantra of

One of the biggest focuses for the year

independent retailers ‘scale economics’. The

Championing Successful Independents,

ahead is facilitating a seamless omnichannel

synergies of using our scale to benefit the

a key factor that helps the business react

experience at IBA member stores under

locally operated store is a huge competitive

to unpredictable challenges. An example

banners such as Cellarbrations, The

advantage when done in partnership which

of this can be found when the NT was

Bottle-O, and Porter’s Liquor.

is entrenched in trust,” Baddock explained.

recently blocked off by floods, with some

“I prefer not to call online a standalone

For independent retailers outside of

customers not receiving a delivery for over

channel - we refer to it as ‘bricks & clicks’

the IBA network, there are also some key

a week. Baddock said ALM had the choice

within the business, where our programs

technological developments planned for

to reroute a 44 pallet load 2,000km further

are built to attract consumers to our retail

the year ahead. One of which is ALM’s

through Queensland, at a cost of three times

brands through bricks and mortar, through

‘extended aisle’ called ALM Connect, which

the normal rate, and said it was one of the

pick up, through delivery or even drive

brings suppliers and retailers together on

simplest decisions to say yes as it was the

through,” Baddock said.

a much wider scale (including with non-

right thing to do by the retailer.

“Programs including our state of the art e-commerce platform make up a part of the full offer IBA provides retailers.”

warehoused products), and gives retailers access to thousands more SKUs.

“I am proud that our strategy is consistent year on year as we focus on building a

A trial of this is underway in Tasmania,

business that is easy to do business with.

IBA launched its new e-commerce

and Baddock said: “We will launch nationally

This remains a work in progress, we know

platforms late last year, strategically moving

when we are confident that the system will

what needs to be done and will relentlessly

all banners from ShopMyLocal.com.au to

be able to manage what we envisage to be

execute with our customers central to all

their own standalone sites, which will be

huge demand.”

decisions,” Baddock said.

■

April 2022 | 31

IRI

32 | National Liquor News

IRI

The rise of canned wine

Antonia Tolich, Consultant at IRI, explores the potential of canned wine in the Australian market right now as it attempts to compete with hard seltzers and traditional RTDs. We’ve witnessed the success of canned formats across

Interestingly, still canned wine is the major growth

all categories recently, as more and more Australians

driver seeing value growth of +39.4 per cent while

turn to smaller alcohol formats with no sign of

sparkling canned wine continues to see a decline

slowing down.

of -0.9 per cent. We have seen most of the growth

Cans are outperforming bottles across virtually all

coming from well-established brands in the category

liquor categories, which is unsurprising as cans have

such as Pizzini and Barokes which are driving growth

been the preferred format for beer and dark RTDs

through still canned wine, while Yarra Burn canned

for a while now. Bottled beer, for example, is now

Prosecco and rosé have led the way for NPD growth

in decline -7.6 per cent, while canned continues to

off the back of recent innovation. Squealing Pig was a

see value growth +6.1 per cent. This aligns with what

major growth driver in 2019 delivering nearly $2.1M

we’ve seen across RTDs, with both light (-2.0 per cent)

in annual sales but is now in value decline -32 per cent

and dark bottled RTDs (-1.2 per cent) seeing slight value decline. All categories have been successful in recruiting a younger audience, with the wine industry continuing to drive innovation in this space and looking to broaden appeal from the traditional wine drinker to appeal to a younger audience and compete with other categories as shoppers leave for seltzers and other pre-mixed drinks. The adoption mainly stems from the fact that they are typically lighter and more convenient to carry around, particularly if you’re going out socialising. Consistent with what we have seen across other categories, canned wine is outperforming total bottled wine in Australia at +12 per cent, bringing in $11.8M in annual sales, while bottled wine is in flat growth with +0.4 per cent. We have seen growth of canned wine slow in the last year as it is a much more mature category dating back to the 1990s, and are seeing a reduction in the number of active products due to decreased ranging as other categories become more successful in driving shelf space with innovation - for example, hard seltzers and other RTD products. Canned wine is still a small market making up less than one per cent dollar share of total wine.

and losing share to competitors. It will be interesting to keep an eye out for any new innovative brands that can shake up the category this year and steal shelf space back from other categories. One example of this can be found in the launch of Tart canned wine last year from Daytime Drinks Company, which taps into the ‘better for you’ space. Using lower calories and ABV than traditional bottled wine, like Tart does, is what product innovation in the category should be focussed on, in order to compete with the booming seltzer category. The trend of premiumisation was prominent in wine during COVID with the shutdown of on-premise venues, which helped prompt a spike in Champagne sales. But we may see shifts in liquor shopping behaviour as shoppers are now all out of lockdown and continue to seek convenience in relaxed outdoor settings while socialising. Brands and retail outlets will need to continue to educate drinkers on the taste profile of canned wine if the category has a chance of competing with the likes of RTDs.

■

Source:

“Brands and retail outlets will need to continue to educate drinkers on the taste profile of canned wine if the category has a chance of competing with the likes of RTDs.” Antonia Tolich Consultant IRI

IRI Market Edge Liquor Weighted Market, MAT to 06/02/22

April 2022 | 33

Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day:

not just Champagne and flowers Mother’s Day presents a number of different consumer occasions for off-premise retailers and brands to leverage, writes Norrelle Goldring. So here we are, Mother’s Day CXII (112).

occasion - 49 per cent planned an outing and

three planned gifts were flowers, chocolates

According to the National Library of Australia,

68 per cent planned to buy flowers.

and cards, these aren’t necessarily what

the first Mother’s Day was celebrated in 1910,

Back on home soil, a 2021 Finder study

mums want. A McCrindle study listed

just two years after Anna Jarvis founded it

indicated that 62 per cent of shoppers

the top five ‘worst’ gifts as being “cheap

in the USA. Interestingly, its founder later

planned to buy their mum a gift, with a

chocolates, flimsy flowers, ugly underwear,

denounced the perceived commerciality of

planned spend of $102, and unsurprisingly

trivial trinkets, and any appliances.”

the occasion. Nevertheless, fast forward 100

flowers the top planned gift at 26 per cent.

or so years and 83 per cent of Americans

Whilst flowers and chocolates are traditional, and easy for the shopper, to

The gap between what shoppers buy and what mums want

mum they demonstrate a lack of thought

setting record occasion spending levels at a planned USD$220 per shopper for the

Whilst the Finder study showed the top

not being valued, and any appliance just

in 2021 planned to celebrate Mother’s Day,

34 | National Liquor News

and effort. Anything cheap denotes mum

Mother’s Day

means chores or work. But whilst 25 per cent of US

on-premise venue (which can be a BYO opportunity

Mother’s Day gift shoppers, according to a National

in itself), given the continuing subdued levels of on-

Retail Federation study, look for a gift that’s convenient

premise visitation, with some venues reporting traffic

to the buyer and a further 15 per cent look for what’s

is still down 50 per cent versus pre-pandemic. So, we

cheapest, somewhat hearteningly 44 per cent were

can reasonably expect a spike in off-premise sales for

looking for unique gifts and 40 per cent gifts that

hosted events at home or, equally likely, outdoors in

create a special memory.

a ‘neutral’ space (weather permitting, particularly in

Mums appreciate gifts that show thought, time, effort, and knowledge of their preferences.

hosted Mother’s Day at home/outdoors events:

for more than one ‘mum’, such as their partner’s mum,

• Something for mum to drink with lunch

and may not know the other mums they are buying

• Something for me to drink with lunch

for to the same level as their own.

• Something for others to drink with lunch

gift, and what are the opportunities? There’s obviously an opportunity to buy what the shopper knows mum drinks, whether that’s sparkling, Baileys, or even no or low alcohol wines. However, whilst that shows knowledge of mum’s preferences, it can still be perceived as an ‘easy way out’, ‘lazy’ or last minute purchase. So there’s an opportunity to premiumise, to increase the perceived and actual spend, or find a more expensive or different expression of what mum drinks. In other words, highlight and display more premium products – sparklings, white

Norrelle has 20 years’ experience in the liquor industry and in retail, category, channel and customer strategy, planning, research and marketing, working in and with global retailers, manufacturers and research houses. Contact Norrelle on 0411735190 or email norrellegoldring@hotmail.com

There are a number of opportunities around these

Complicating all this is that shoppers may be buying

So where does this leave liquor as a Mother’s Day

About Norrelle Goldring:

the southern states).

wines, gin, vodka for instance - potentially in a dedicated gifting bay that can be used for subsequent gifting occasions such as Father’s Day. There’s also an AWOP occasion if the shopper is buying for multiple mums. Not all mums are necessarily going to be Champagne drinkers - some may prefer gin, or Pinot Grigio. Or even if the mums are all sparkling drinkers, you could sell a variety four-pack or six-pack of sparklings (so that not all the mums in the family receive the same thing) and throw in some gift bags and boxes and bundle some upmarket mixers with the spirits.

Not just about gifts The other obvious occasion surrounding Mother’s Day is lunch or brunch. And not just lunch at an

• Something for the host, if I’m not hosting • Something for me and others to drink later Taken together, these point to a significant AWOP opportunity whether the shopper is the host or BYO-ing to someone else’s event. Examples might include pick ‘n’ mix six-packs and cases of wine or sparkling, or bundles of liqueurs and aperitifs all at varying price points. There’s also a strong opportunity to be found if working with other vendors in the local area to put together hampers for picnic lunches including cheese, smallgoods, antipasti, bread and snacks, or putting together your own bundles of the same. It may well be that there is an opportunity for dual Mother’s Day bays or zones – one for gifting, and the other for BYO lunch - promoted not only in-store but online and via socials, of course. In short, it’s all about premiumisation and AWOP via bundling, in a themed zone that shoppers can immediately recognise and navigate. Happy Mother’s Day!

■

References: 1. https://7news.com.au/lifestyle/mothers-day-australia-2021the-history-of-the-holiday-and-how-its-founder-annajarvis-lived-to-regret-it-c-2715472 2. https://nrf.com/topics/holiday-and-seasonal-trends/ mothers-day 3. https://www.finder.com.au/mothers-day-spending 4. https://mccrindle.com.au/insights/blog/australian-mumsspeak-worst-mothers-day-gifts/ April 2022 | 35

Mother’s Day

Mum’s the word! Surprise and delight shoppers’ mums this year with interesting and award-winning products.

Crystal Head Aurora Vodka Crystal Head’s award-winning Aurora Vodka is sure to turn heads with its iconic skull-shaped bottle, featuring a beautiful

Fever-Tree Wild Raspberry Tonic Water By blending natural flavourings

iridescent finish. Crafted from the highestquality English wheat and pristine water from Newfoundland, Canada, this clean and crisp vodka is free from additives and offers a unique twist with its delicate floral tones.

of sweet British rhubarb with juicy Scottish raspberries, FeverTree has created a refreshingly fruity tonic water, reminiscent of summer. As part of the Fever-Tree Refreshingly Light range, it only contains 19 calories per serve, so it’s sure to be good on the mum a cocktail she will love this

Highgate Sparkling Chardonnay NV

Mother’s Day? Try the Clover

Pale straw in colour with elegant

Leaf highball. Simply build in a

lively bubbles, this Australian made

highball glass over ice - 45ml of

sparkling will be sure to delight mum

mum’s favourite dry gin, 10ml of

this Mother’s Day. On the nose is

fresh lemon juice and top with the

green apples and citrus supported

Fever-Tree Wild Raspberry Tonic

by creaminess, while on the palate,

water. Garnish with a sprig of

Chardonnay gives the wine a

mint and a twist of lemon.

creamy, round mouth feel with some

lips and the hips! Want to make

nice citrusy characters and Pinot Noir adds some acidity allowing the wine to finish clean, crisp, refreshing and so good to share. 36 | National Liquor News

Mother’s Day

Wynns Reframed Coonawarra Cabernet Rosé 2021 Wynns Coonawarra Estate is synonymous with Cabernet, and the 71 year old winery’s trusted Cabernet vines bring a sophisticated subtlety to their first Cabernet Rosé. Launched as part of the new Wynns Reframed tier of wines, which are a contemporary take on classic Wynns’ varietals,

Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky

styles, winemaking and wine occasions, this

Maker’s Mark® Bourbon is distinct not only for its

complex, refreshing rosé from Coonawarra has a

unique flavour, but its iconic bottle that is hand-

dry, crunchy palate of juicy raspberry fruits with

dipped and sealed in red wax - a tradition that

hints of underlying leafy Cabernet and a long finish.

started with founders, Bill Sr. and Margie. While Bill Sr. focused on creating the distinctive, handmade bourbon, Margie designed the name and bottle, and had the idea to hand-cut the labels and hand-dip each bottle to ensure its style matched its substance. Over 50 years on, these high standards for handcraftsmanship and quality remain the same.

Purple Reign Classic White Blend A classic blend of Margaret

Maker’s Mark recently achieved B Corp certification making this drop a special and considered gift for Mum. Marker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky is smooth and subtle with sweet and balanced caramel, vanilla, and fruity essences.

River white wine varietals. Enhanced with organic, plant based natural antioxidants to minimise the use of

vibrancy, this lush style wine

Seppeltsfield Road Distillers Barossa Shiraz Gin 2021

exhibits a hint of grass and

The hero of this gin is the premium Barossa

a touch of minerals. This low

Shiraz grapes macerated into Seppeltsfield

sulphite wine was made for

Road’s internationally awarded House Gin.

immediate enjoyment and is

The gentle ripening season of the 2021

drinking perfectly now.

vintage has delivered vibrant, bright fresh

sulphites and to create a unique new colour and

fruit characters. This was recently named as the first gin to be awarded 99 points and Outstanding Gold at the International Wine & Spirits Competition. April 2022 | 37

RTD

The RTD Renaissance Diversification of flavours, higher strengths, and canned cocktails reflect a competitive category that has reached maturity, writes Seamus May.

The RTD category continues to go

A congested category

from strength to strength, with IRI data

As ever, growing categories tend to attract

focussing on include the desire for a lower

confirming the market continues to

new market entrants, and the RTD sector is

alcohol drink that fits the lifestyle of people

outperform, valued at $3.9B.

increasingly competitive.

who care about what they put into their

“The trends Tattoo Me Cooler are

Premium products, new entrants and

In a presentation at the recent Bloody

incremental growth all suggest that the RTD

Big Drinks Summit, market research

“Our hard seltzers are sugar free, gluten

category is firmly in the ‘resurgence phase,’

organisation Snooper discussed that brand

free and vegan friendly, while having fewer

according to a number of analysts including

loyalty amongst drinkers of hard seltzer

than 85 calories, and an alcohol content of

IRI and IWSR.

was low.

only 4.5 per cent.”

bodies,” O’Brien said.

Hard seltzer now represents the largest

“48 per cent of our shoppers would

Saintly is another brand hoping to

growth generating segment within the

actually pick a different brand during their

capture the custom of conscious drinkers, as

category, with bourbon and North American

next visit to the shop,” said Laurie Wespes,

Co-founder Kieron Barton explained: “Our

whiskey RTDs in second place, while gin is

Snooper CEO, during the presentation.

purpose as a brand is to meet their need

third. Dark spirit RTDs still lead in terms of

So how are brands vying for customers

for healthier, bang-on trend drinks, that

total value, but NPD in the seltzer space has led

in an environment where drinkers are likely

never compromise on taste and flavour and

to that segment to become the fastest growing.

to jump from product to product?

consistently deliver incredible refreshment.

The RTD sector is now also home to a

One well-trodden path is to firmly pursue

“We are passionate about serving Aussies

diverse collection of styles and offerings to

the ‘better for you’ buyer, as new entrant

full-flavoured and incredible tasting drinks

suit consumers of all kinds: ranging from

Tattoo Me Cooler has demonstrated. The

without the calories, the sugar, or carbs.”

the sweet and strong, to lighter expressions

brand was founded late last year by Helen

that sit firmly in the ‘better for you’ space.

O’Brien of winemaker, Kangarilla Road.

38 | National Liquor News

Another success story in the RTD category is Ampersand Projects, which

RTD

launched in 2018 and is now one of the most engaging

drinkers, with more men buying into the brand over

RTD brands in Australia. Even in these four years of

the last few years.”

operation, Co-founder and Director Alex Bottomley has seen a proliferation of RTD brands. “There is no doubt that the RTD category has

Barton has also noticed this shift at Saintly, and said: “We see our demographic expand further to include older millennials.”

exploded, with more and more drinkers coming into the category,” he said.

Focus on strength

“We are lucky that we have a first mover advantage

Barton, who had previously helped launch Rekoderlig

as one of the first RTDs to really embrace the ‘better

Cider with his Chilli Marketing firm, has also

for you’ approach in Australia and this has helped us

observed another trend among RTD drinkers — the

maintain a competitive advantage.

desire for higher strength products.

“We are also an independent company that engages

“Saintly was curated for a new generation and

and interacts with our consumers in a way that big

movement of people seeking healthier beverages

corporate brands cannot.”

without compromising their wild side,” Barton says.

While RTDs have long been associated with

Bottomley echoed that notion and said: “We are

Australia’s younger adult drinkers, many brands

seeing drinkers gravitate towards a slightly higher

reported that they are seeing diversified demographics

ABV RTD option to better replicate the strength that

purchasing their products.

they would normally expect to get in a vodka soda in

“Our portfolio has grown to over 18 products, and we are now appealing to a much wider range of audiences,” Bottomley said. Michael Ritoli, General Manager of CUB Premium Beverages at Asahi, which owns

the on-premise. “We think that the light RTD category will trend towards higher ABV drinks in 2022. We have just released a six per cent ABV version of our popular Vodka Soda & Pine Lime to support this trend.”

Vodka Cruiser, said: “Vodka Cruiser

Meanwhile, Vodka Cruiser, which has remained

has a very wide demographic of

one of Australia’s highest performing RTDs for

April 2022 | 39

RTD

more than two decades, has also noticed

brand contacted for this story was conscious of

some changes in the ABV preferences of RTD

their responsibility to the environment.

consumers. This has just been another changing

Certain brands have made sustainability

trend the brand has had to weather to maintain

their key point of difference with SouthTrade

its position at the top. According to Ritoli, it has

International’s C.A.N and Brown-Forman’s Part

been this agility of Cruiser that has allowed the

Time Rangers being two examples.

brand to maintain its position.

SouthTrade International’s Marketing

“Cruiser has been a nimble brand that’s been

Director, Fraser Lockwood, told National Liquor

able to evolve at the speed of culture and stay

News how the C.A.N brand of vodka soda RTDs

relevant with young adult Australians for over

brought together the two industry movements.

two decades,” he said. Ritoli has found that stronger expressions

“‘Better for you and the planet’ remains a high consumer preference in the market,” he said.

have also resonated with the Vodka Cruiser

“C.A.N plays into the better for everyone

customer, as the brand’s higher ABV Cruiser

category, not only due to more 10 per cent of

Black has seen a recent surge. Newer,

our profits being donated to Aussie conservation

independent brands have brought creativity

but because we are low sugar, low calorie and

and diversity to the category in different ways,

four per cent ABV.”

but favourites do still have a strong place. “At the end of the day shoppers are still passionate about trusted, familiar brands like Vodka Cruiser, that also consistently surprise and delight,” Ritoli said.

Indeed, C.A.N (which stands for Create Action Now) has made sustainability the central driver of their brand. “Our core purpose is about reducing the impact on the environment as well as proactively

“Cruiser will always predominately be a

doing our bit to clean up,” Lockwood explained.

brand for young adult Australians looking for

“As C.A.N starts making waves across

fun, flavour and colour.”

Australia, we want to live and breathe our brand ethos, that’s why any C.A.N assets that

40 | National Liquor News

The sustainability angle

are developed are all recyclable or made from

Going hand-in-hand with the growth of the

recycled materials. Our team are also passionate

‘better for you’ trend is a widening commitment

advocates of conservation initiatives and we’ve

to sustainability. Across the RTD sector as a

worked on several projects with Conservation

whole, National Liquor News found that every

Volunteers Australia.”

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RTD

Spirited expansions An interesting development in the RTD market has been release of full size bottled formats of the spirit bases used in the RTD products themselves. Ampersand Projects, for example, has produced

Recent events have brought C.A.N’s mission into a keen focus for Lockwood and the team. “We’ll also now turn our focus to supporting

“Sustainability is an important part of our

full bottles of the gin

decision-making when it comes to manufacturing

and vodka used in its

and raw materials,” Bottomley said.

products, complete with

flood affected areas, given the huge challenges QLD

“We have chosen to use aluminium cans

and NSW are facing in the years ahead to recover

for the vast majority of our products due to

from the recent devastation,” Lockwood said.

their recyclability.”

the company’s hallmark minimalist labelling. “Vodka is proving to be

“With over and above donations and activity,

Likewise, both Tattoo Me Cooler and Boski,

we stand to exceed our 10 per cent committed

a new brand of wine-based RTD from Dee Vine

donation and contribute 15 per cent of our brand

Estate, have gone down a similar path, with both

Saintly has done

profits to conservation initiatives.”

choosing to partner with sustainable packaging,

something similar, but

Similarly, Tattoo Me Cooler contributes part of

printing and supply organisations. Saintly

in a slightly different

its profits to Seabin Project Australia, a company

meanwhile is working towards getting its B Corp

space, launching a range

which is working on solutions to the problem of

certification, which the company hopes to achieve

of ‘Hard Seltzer Spirits’

marine litter.

later in 2022.

this month. This product

the most popular spirit for us,” Bottomley said.

And Part Time Rangers also operates in a similar

Larger brands are also getting aboard the shift

space, raising funds to support wildlife projects

towards greater sustainability, as Ritoli noted:

a consumer needs to

and charities through its range of gin and vodka

“Sustainability is a key pillar of our business.

recreate Saintly canned

contains everything

based RTDs. Brand Manager, Ashleigh Wheeler,

“From a production point of view, all primary

said Part Time Rangers has raised over $450,000 to

packaging used in Asahi Beverages products

support a range of charitable causes, from animal

(including RTDs) will be made with 100 per cent

“Saintly Spirits have

preservation, to increasing employment and pay

recyclable, reusable or compostable materials

been developed to serve

equity. Organisations that Part Time Rangers has

by 2030.”

as a seltzer when mixed

partnered with include the WWF, Rhinos Without Borders and Save The Kiwi.

seltzers at home – just add soda.

with soda, for taste

Favoured flavours

flexibility at home and

“Part Time Rangers’ primary purpose is to

Wespes said that Snooper’s analysis had found 66

reducing the need for

support the longevity of wildlife for generations to

per cent of drinkers were more likely to purchase

packaged fridge space or

come, so with that in mind we have an ongoing lens

hard seltzer products if new flavours were available.

taps in the on-premise,”

for decreasing impact on the planet,” Wheeler said.

As Wespes said: “The most important driver

This commitment to the environment even

was definitely the novelty in flavour, even more

extends to marketing materials, with the brand’s POS

important than discounts.”

Barton explained. “Saintly Spirits is versatile and can also be

displays only using soy ink and recyclable materials.

This means that the creation of new flavours

This type of approach touches upon a growing

and products has become a key battleground in

creation, both in the bar

the RTD and hard seltzer category.

and at home.”

trend across the RTD category - sustainability in packaging and processes, beyond just financial donations. 42 | National Liquor News

For Tattoo Me Cooler, this desire to produce innovative flavours led to a great deal of work in

used in unique cocktail

RTD

raspberry and sparkling water is the

News spoke to for this story pointed to

“We trialled many different natural

favourite amongst the Rangers so far. This

the development of canned cocktails as a

flavours from two Australian producers

drink taps into the growing gin trend and

growing trend in the RTD market.

and worked with combinations of one

berry flavour trends.”

development, as O’Brien outlined.

With the pandemic closing the on-

flavour and multiple flavours. We worked

Ampersand Projects and Vodka Cruiser are

premise for months at a time, drinkers

with focus groups and then trialled the most

also looking to shake up their flavour portfolio

have sought convenient ways to replicate the

popular ones with our friends who fit into

as they seek to capture new customers.

mixed drinks they had previously enjoyed

our demographic,” she said.

“Our limited edition [products] continue

in bars in the ‘at-home occasion’.

“We flirted briefly with a different

to surprise and delight shoppers – we’ve

Bottomley described canned cocktails

combination for the pear-based seltzer but

seen amazing response to limited runs of

as a new but emerging subcategory,

the lychee had the most appeal. The mandarin

our Originals with Blueberry & Pom Pom,

and picked it as a trend to watch over the

and yuzu was an immediate winner.”

as well as our Sours with Sour Grape & Sour

next year.

Fellow new market entrant Boski is hoping

Strawberry,” Ritoli said.

“Cocktail RTDs will become part of the

that its wine-based RTDs can be a key point

Meanwhile, Ampersand Projects has

RTD drinker’s repertoire in 2022,” he said.

of difference when it comes to attracting

expanded its flavoured offering, having made

“Lighter and carbonated versions

drinkers looking for flavour novelty.

its name with decidedly simpler expressions.

of classic cocktails such as Margaritas will

“What makes Boski stand out is definitely

Bottomley said: “Some of the fastest

the fact that we’re wine-based,” Boski’s

growth is coming from our flavoured RTDs,

Indeed, Jose Cuervo launched a

Marine Gargadennec said.

in particular Vodka Soda & Pine Lime. This

sparkling margarita in a can just last year,

is a unique flavour profile that is a twist on

while Saintly has also introduced its iZZ!

the classic splice ice-cream.”

range of canned cocktails more recently,

“We’re aiming to put on the market a new product that breaks the codes.”

be popular.”

For Boski’s RTDs, wine grapes are

Ritoli, speaking from considerable

with the likes of Watermelon Margarita

crushed and fermented as they would be in

experience, does sound one note of caution,

and Passionfruit Mojito SKUs launching

the ordinary production of wine. The wine

and expects the RTD category to consolidate

this month.

is then processed to remove colour and

flavour offerings in the not-too-distant future.

Barton said that the iZZ! range will tap

flavour, before Boski introduces natural

“The number of SKUs in RTDs has

into a global trend for canned cocktails,

doubled over the last five years, and while it

with growth in the US reaching +86 per

“Watermelon, pineapple and raspberry

can give shoppers a reason to try something

cent last year.

are the flavours that have gotten most of

new, there will be a lot of bets placed while

“Convenience has always been the

the love so far,” Gargadennec told National

retailers and manufacturers sift through the

driving force behind canned cocktails,

Liquor News.

NPDs to find ones that really stick and drive

but now consumers are looking for more,”

the category forward,” he said.

he said.

said: “Out of the three Part Time Rangers

Canned classics

accessible cocktails that don’t compromise

delicious bevs, the Pink Rhino with gin,

Several of the brands that National Liquor

on the experience.”

flavours and colours.

Part Time Rangers is also seeing success with its berry-based flavours, as Wheeler

44 | National Liquor News

“They are looking for lighter, more

■

RTD

Ready To Drink

Get inspired for your RTD offering in-store with these new and hot products.

Pink Gin Soda & A light and refreshing mixture of natural wildberry flavours and locally distilled gin, Pink Gin Soda & was the first no sugar Pink Gin RTD in Australia. Pink Gin Soda & has no sugar, no carbs and no gluten, and weighs in at only 73 calories. Clean, simple and easy-drinking, this RTD would appeal to gin drinkers looking for a new experience, or to people who are starting their gin-drinking journey. Distributed by Ampersand Projects.

C.A.N Pineapple & Passionfruit Vodka and soda with a fruity pineapple and passionfruit splash. This C.A.N packs a sweet and refreshing flavour that will have you daydreaming about being on holiday (if you aren’t already). C.A.N stands for Create Action Now - because that’s what the brand does. C.A.N donates 10 per cent of all profits to land, water, and air conservation partners, meaning you can feel good about sipping on a C.A.N. Each C.A.N is low calorie (90 calories per unit), low sugar, and tasty A.F with Pineapple & Passionfruit and Ruby Grapefruit flavoured SKUs. Distributed by SouthTrade International.

iZZ! Watermelon Margarita iZZ! Cocktail Co. offers a range of premium, premixed, sparkling canned cocktails that balance a mixologist-crafted cocktail, premium spirits and all-natural ingredients. With lower alcohol at four per cent ABV, low sugar, and lower carbs than a standard cocktail, iZZ! Cocktails are less than 100 calories a can. The effortless life of the party, iZZ! launches with a contemporary twist on a classic cocktail, mouth-watering Watermelon Margarita. Curated to be sessionable not just in taste and flavour, ready to go whenever you are and can be enjoyed anywhere, whether you’re hanging out, chilling out or heading out. Distributed by Saintly.

46 | National Liquor News

El Toro El Toro is authentic Tequila made in the very heart of Tequila, the town which the spirit is named. El Toro is made using only the best agave plants, handharvested at full maturity and double distilled to create a smooth, flavoursome Tequila. Silver white in colour and tasting of ripe agave, citrus and subtle spice El Toro is perfect to sip or mix. Available now in spirit format and RTD can flavours of Mango Margarita, Ranch Water and Grapefruit Paloma. Distributed by Vok Beverages.

RTD

T MIX AE HOM

Saintly Holy Spirit Watermelon & Mint A world first from the brand which aims to be at the forefront of modern refreshment. A true piece of innovation, Saintly is launching Saintly Hard Seltzer Spirits this month.

23rd Street Violet Gin & Tonic

Made from the same premium sugar cane spirit used in its existing seltzer recipes, Saintly Spirits are full-

23rd Street Distillery’s Violet

flavoured, vibrant, and available in

Gin & Tonic is perfectly crafted

two of the most popular flavours, Holy

with a balanced combination

Watermelon & Mint and Forbidden

of the Violet Gin and no sugar

Pink Grapefruit. Developed to serve

tonic. Violet in colour and

as a Hard Seltzer when mixed with

sparkling in nature, a bouquet

soda, for taste and flexibility at

of Australian native botanicals

home. Saintly Spirits is versatile and

shine through, making a worthy

can also be used in unique cocktail

competitor for the ultraviolet

creation both in bar and at home.

butterfly pea flower. Violet Gin

Distributed by Saintly.

700ml is currently available, with Violet Gin & Tonic premixed cans available from this month. Distributed by Vok Beverages.

Jack Daniel’s Seltzer Jack Daniel’s Seltzer is the perfect mix of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey and sparkling water, with a twist of natural fruit flavours inspired by classic cocktails. The result is a bold premix with a fresh new taste. Available in two cocktail-inspired flavours people know and love, that are a perfect complement to one of the world’s

Seagram’s V.O

best known whiskeys: Zesty Lemon,

One of Canada’s oldest whiskies, V.O was developed in 1914

inspired by the Whiskey Sour and Blood Orange, inspired by the Old

by Joseph E. Seagram to celebrate his son’s marriage – ‘V.O’ is short for ‘very own’. Smooth and easy to drink, it was distilled

Fashioned. Distributed by

specially for the wedding. The spirit of V.O’s origin lives on

Brown-Forman.

today with V.O standing tall as the third largest Canadian whisky in North America. Now available in Australia in RTD format, Seagram’s V.O & Dry is a blend of authentic Canadian whisky mixed with crisp, dry ginger ale. Perfect for beaches, barbeques and backyards, Seagram’s encourages drinkers to ‘Give it a V.O!’ Distributed by SouthTrade International. April 2022 | 47

World Cocktail Day

Cheers to World Cocktail Day Celebrating this occasion in-store will help bring a little fun and excitement to your customers.

This month is World Cocktail Day (May

“We know that many of our consumers

Australia has noticed great results for its

13), an international cause to celebrate the

love to mix and get experimental to create

canned cocktail-style RTD, Bacardí Mojito.

wonderful world of cocktails both inside

their own flavour adventure,” said Brendan

Maurice Melis, CEO of GEA, explained

and outside the home.

Moynihan, Starward’s Marketing Director.

what drives the appeal for these types of

Considering the current home cocktail

For those without much mixology

beverages and said: “Bottled cocktails take all

movement, this year’s occasion offers

confidence or skills, bottled or canned

the inconvenience out of bar quality cocktails,

retailers the opportunity to excite customers

cocktails are also a good choice to celebrate

allowing you to spend that precious time

about their own mixology skills - after all,

World Cocktail Day with high quality and

on what matters most and with the people

consumers are exploring unique beverages

interesting drinks. For example, Starward

around you, not to mention impressing them

more than ever through the off-premise.

has its own line of bottled cocktails, while

with being the ultimate host!”

Local distiller Starward has certainly

Global Endeavours Australia (GEA) has

noticed this, and has positioned its popular

recently brought the Batched Premium

Cocktails done ‘better’

Two-Fold double grain whisky to cater to

Cocktails range to the country. Meanwhile,

The industry often cycles through cocktail

such curious consumers.

on the canned frontier, Bacardi-Martini

trends, but the appetite for certain types

48 | National Liquor News

World Cocktail Day

Suggested serve: Fever-Tree Pink Grapefruit Soda

Suggested serve: Peachtree

Fever-Tree’s Pink Grapefruit Soda harnesses

first of its kind that has the taste and smell

the freshest and most vibrant hand-picked

of tree-ripe peaches, made with a well-

Florida grapefruits in its creation, which

balanced recipe and delicate distillation.

gives an uplifting citrus zing and a soft rosy undertone. This perfectly pairs with a

The world’s best-selling peach liqueur is the

Peachtree has a very accessible taste that is light, fresh and sweet, while also being low calorie, catering

premium blanco Tequila for a

to the highly trending ‘better

refreshingly zesty highball – the

for you’ movement. The sublime

Paloma. Simply build Tequila

taste of Peachtree includes a

and Fever-Tree Pink Grapefruit

well-rounded peach taste and

Soda in a tall glass with

lingering aftertaste, perfectly

ice (salt rim optional) and

designed for cocktails like

presto, you have a delicious

signature cocktail, Fizzy

Paloma. Fever-Tree goes

Peachtree, or Sex on

to the ends of the earth to

the Beach.

procure the finest quality, natural ingredients so you can

How to make a Fizzy

simply pop the top and serve

Peachtree:

with your favourite spirit for a

• 40ml Peachtree

simple cocktail solution.

• 100ml Sparkling water • The juice of ¼ lime

Trending cocktails of 2022

of cocktails is also driven by macro drinks industry

in flavour cocktails, our answer to this trend is the

trends, such as the general move to become a more

‘skinny marg’ utilising the Fever-Tree Lime & Yuzu

conscious consumer.

Soda,” Brew explained.

Olivia Waters, Brand Manager at Stuart Alexander

Another element of consciousness for cocktail

and Co., the distributor of Peachtree, said one area of

consumers is the environment, according to Bacardi-

cocktail consciousness right now is health.

Martini Brand Ambassador, Joey Chisholm.

According to the

“We know that almost 50 per cent of Australian

“Opting for spirits that are distilled in a more

producers of this

drinkers now actively moderate their alcohol intake and

sustainable way is another way consumers can be

story, the top

are looking for ‘better for you’ options, but most sweet

more mindful with their choices, as society becomes

five most sought

cocktails are high in alcohol or calories,” said Waters.

more aware of environmental impacts and their own

after cocktails for consumers in Australia at the moment include: • Margarita • Espresso Martini • Gin or Whisky Sour • Spritzes • Negroni

Fever-Tree Brand Ambassador, Trish Brew, said

carbon footprint,” Chisholm said.

a good solution to support shoppers trying to make more conscious choices is to advise of ingredient

Showcasing staples

swaps they can make to level up their cocktail

While there are almost endless possibilities on what

game to better suit their lifestyle. Brew’s example

products to hero around World Cocktail Day, a good

was about the most Googled cocktail of 2021, the

place to start is the staples of the home bar.

Margarita, altered to contain just the Tequila and a ‘better for you’ soda.

On a mixer front, there is the need for a highquality soda and tonic, especially one that pairs well

“With the ever-growing health-conscious

with the customer’s favourite spirit. On top of this, its

consumer looking for simple-to-make yet complex

recommended to have some key secondary ingredients April 2022 | 49

World Cocktail Day

that help tie together drinks, as well as fresh garnishes on hand. One suggestion is from Waters, who said: “Quality sugar and agave syrups can also make a big difference on flavour in building cocktails.” Moynihan added: “Great quality bitters always add balance and complexity to cocktails, binding all ingredients together.” As for spirits, most producers recommended something that is great for mixing in trending cocktails, that suits customer taste preferences and that also pairs well for the season. For right now, Chisholm said: “As the weather begins to cool down, I think leaning towards dark, rich and bold spirits will always be more enticing.”

In-store theatrics World Cocktail Day might not be the biggest drinks event on the calendar, but it is a chance to bring a bit of theatrics back in-store, which is sure to help lift people’s spirits (literally) as the pandemic continues to make an impact. Brew suggested making things easy for customers and showing them that good quality cocktails are within reach. “Retailers can get customers excited about World Cocktail Day by providing simple cocktail solutions in-store,” she said. Waters also recommended this, because “cocktail culture is booming right now and consumers are looking for new simple recipes that they can easily create themselves at home.”

Ready to serve: Starward Bottled Cocktail range Starward Whisky is shaking up the ‘ready to serve’ category with its delicious bottled cocktails range. Ready to splash, sip and savour, the Starward Bottled Cocktails range offers less fuss and more flavour. The consumer demand for cocktail bar quality pre-batched solutions is growing at a rapid pace, with the total ready to serve (RTS) category volume growing at +99 per cent MAT. Starward Bottled Cocktails grew 10x faster than the premium RTS category growth rate with three delicious cocktails on offer: (New) Old Fashioned, Coffee Old Fashioned and the Whisky Negroni. The cocktails are also making an impact on the global stage with the (New) Old Fashioned cocktail taking home the ‘World’s Best Premix Cocktail’ accolade at the 2020 World Premix Awards in London. Starward’s range answers the growing consumer demand for delicious, high quality pre-batched cocktails, that are ready to enjoy at home. Consumers can now host in style without the hassle or the hunt for niche liqueurs. Containing award-winning whisky and carefully chosen locally sourced ingredients, taste them today and you’ll understand why they’re shaking up the category.

She said visibility of these serves can be done through in-store tastings, recipe cards or neck tags, and boosted online via social media with recipe and masterclass sharing. Moynihan believes this online opportunity is a good one and said: “Data has shown that the appetite for cocktails is strong, so it is worthwhile making the most of this to partner with a brand like Starward and explore cocktail bundles or ambassador demonstrations in-store.” If you’re stuck, try working with suppliers on ways you can highlight the benefit of different cocktails or ingredients. Because as Chisholm summarised: “We, as consumers, love convenience so thinking of ways to save time will always be a successful route.” 50 | National Liquor News

■

LET'S HAVE A FIZZY PEACHTREE!

A refreshing and fruity cocktail with the taste of peach.

Contact your Peachtree Representative to find out more stuartalexander.com.au I ContactCentre@stalex.com.au I 1800 225 417 Proudly distributed by Stuart Alexander & Co.

Drink Responsibly

No and Low Alcohol

Into the

light The no and low alcohol sector has done some considerable work to dismantle consumer misconceptions and has transformed itself into a competitive category for bottle shops.

The past couple of years have seen an absolute explosion of the no and low alcohol (NOLO) sector in Australia, taking it from small and niche to now be one of the fastest growing and most innovated areas of the market. Producers in this space have all seen the value of the sector rise in the past year. For example, at Carlton & United Breweries (CUB), no, low and mid strength alcohol SKUs now make up nearly 30 per cent of beer sales, while at independent brewer Modus Operandi, the volume of its non-alcoholic beer label Nort has increased by up to 11 times. “We expect with consumers increasingly choosing to moderate that this trajectory will continue to grow throughout the year,” said Verity Jackson, representative for Great Northern at Carlton & United Breweries. According to IRI data, the strong growth of the NOLO sector continues to build with an almost constant stream of NPD. Stuart Henshall, Brand Director at Brunswick Aces, said: “The selection available now compared to just five years ago is almost unimaginable, with new brands seemingly launching on a weekly basis.” This is happening on a worldwide scale too, according to Bill Shufelt, Founder of US non-alcoholic beer, Athletic Brewing Co. “Non-alcoholic beverages represent the biggest new consumer introduction potential in all of on- and off-premise drinking occasions. And until a few years ago, there were no products to service these populations, but now it’s one of the most exciting innovation categories in beverage,” he said. Growth is being experienced by all kinds of producers, whether they’re adding NOLO options into what was a full-strength portfolio or solely playing

52 | National Liquor News

No and Low Alcohol

in the NOLO space. It’s also happening across all

regarding taste, as a spokesperson for Heineken noted.

different products, from core ranges to limited edition

“Majority of consumers state taste as the biggest

and seasonal releases.

barrier to entry of the no and low alcohol category,

And the ceiling of this growth has not yet been

with most assuming removing the alcohol will impact

reached, according to a leader of the non-alcoholic

the overall flavour – which is simply not true,” they said.

spirits sector, Lyre’s. “There are still plenty of distribution gains to be had and we are seeing volume growth driven by

The taste problem stems from many angles, and for Jackson, it comes down to how “people still expect it to be watered down in taste.”

increased conversion of category awareness into trial

This misconception extends into a general idea that

and consumption,” said Paul Gloster, Lyre’s Chief

the experience of drinking NOLO products doesn’t

Marketing Officer.

match that of the higher strength versions. Non-alcoholic brewer Heaps Normal has noticed

The fight against misconceptions

this, with Marketing Director, Tim Snape, saying:

Despite such great growth in the past year, NOLO

“For a lot of people a non-alcoholic variation on a

producers are still forced to fight against traditional

traditional drink may have been frowned upon as an

misconceptions of the sector.

inferior product in terms of taste and experience.”

“Despite the growing market, the main barrier for

Modus Operandi believes that the idea of NOLO

consumers considering lower alcohol wines is the

products being of lesser quality is stopping people from

perception they are ‘not really wine’ – a belief held

becoming educated about what products actually do in

by around a third of the wine-drinking population

the space – it’s definitely not just cheap, watery, high

[according to a Wine Intelligence report in 2021],” said

calorie drinks.

Angela Flynn, Marketing Manager at Giesen Group.

“The three misconceptions I still hear in the market

This idea about NOLO wine is not true, as

are taste, price and lack of health benefits,” explained

producers like Giesen have invested in spinning cone

Co-founder, Jaz Wearin.

technology which gently removes the alcohol from

Another thing that consumers aren’t quite

the full strength wines, leaving behind the essence of

understanding is price, expecting a crafted non-

what makes the wine so great.

alcoholic beverage the cost the same as a mass

Another misconception rife across the sector is

produced soft drink.

“Help the consumers understand the process behind how some of these products are made, and together we can change perceptions with a little more information.” Angela Flynn Marketing Manager Giesen Group

April 2022 | 53

No and Low Alcohol

Great Northern Zero

Henshall said: “Sadly, there is a large swathe

“I think the value proposition is still a concern

Great Northern Zero is a 0.0

of society that still equates the alcoholic content

for many retailers in comparison to traditional

per cent alcohol

of a drink to its value, over the taste and quality.”

full-strength products,” said Gloster.

While these misconceptions still exist though,

“The rapid uptake of premium NOLO pairing

an outdoor lifestyle

consumers are being pleasantly surprised when

options in a restaurant setting implies that the

in mind. With its

they do experience the opposite. A producer that

consumer value is in the sense of occasion and

fruity aroma and

has witnessed this firsthand with both core and

social freedom that premium NOLO options

crisp finish, it is

limited edition products is Big Drop Brewing Co.

facilitate. Simply put, consumers are more

the ultimate

“We do find that the craft part of the category,

than prepared to pay for a premium beverage

0.0 per cent

where Big Drop is squarely positioned, is one that

alcohol

still takes consumers and retail by surprise with

refreshment

just how good some of the brands are within this

The road to mainstream

for your

segment,” said Darren West, Country Manager

Just a few short years ago, someone drinking a

favourite

for Big Drop in Australia and New Zealand.

non-alcoholic beer, wine, mixed drink or RTD

beer, brewed with

experience, alcohol or NOLO.”

adventure.

Producers upholding the utmost quality in

would be seen as a bit of a novelty. But we’re

The Great

NOLO products and communicating this to

getting over that stage now, as NOLO moves

Northern Zero

consumers are doing some of the heaviest lifting

more towards a mainstream existence in the

recipe has

when it comes to fighting misconceptions for

drinks industry. The availability of these drinks

gone through

the sector.

options is now much more widespread across

an alcohol removal process

A spokesperson for non-alcoholic wine and

both retail and hospitality.

and then blended to create

RTD producer, Edenvale, said: “There remain

Increased availability is often driven by

a crisp 0.0 per cent alcohol

people who think that NOLO products will not

increased demand from consumers, as NOLO

beer without compromising

taste as good as their alcoholic counterparts.

products penetrate the key occasions where full

on taste. Aroma and taste

Thankfully, this misconception is slowly

strength alcohol products are usually consumed.

feature deep golden hues

disappearing as the technology, and therefore

Heineken’s spokesperson said: “The category

and a fruity aroma that

the quality of the drinks themselves, continues

is definitely going to be an interesting space to

carries through to the palate.

to improve, and consumers are exposed to

watch as it becomes more normalised with core

Great Northern Zero has a

these products.”

beer occasions to offer choice to consumers.”

balanced sweetness that is

Gloster said as more consumers become aware

The ability to penetrate these core occasions

complemented with subtle

of this premium side, a full circle moment will be

is due to the changing attitudes of people when

bitterness. It finishes clean

fuelled, dismantling one of the misconceptions

their friends and family choose not to drink full

and crisp.

of the retail sector.

strength products.

54 | National Liquor News

Contains not more than 0.5% Alcohol/Volume

No and Low Alcohol

“Occasionally we come across retailers who don’t stock non-alc options because they don’t personally drink them. Our advice would be to listen to what your customers want and then seek out one of the many great options available,” said Snape. Edenvale’s spokesperson said it would also be a good idea to speak directly to the community of people who solely drink NOLO, as these people are often keen to trial a range of products and are advocates for quality in the sector. West, Wearin and Flynn advised to discuss options direct with suppliers as they will have a lot of knowledge about the sector to

Lyre’s Non Alcoholic Agave Blanco Spirit

Wearin said: “Gone are the days of being

share and can help you become educated about

ridiculed for drinking a non-alc beer. Instead,

what’s on offer, and pass this education on to

it often opens up a great convo about what they

your customers.

This unique spirit has been

have tried, what they love and how it has made

impossibly crafted to capture

a difference to their lives.”

the essence of an agave spirit with flavours that are distinct and complex. To taste, the spirit is rich and full of character. Expressions of citrus, roasted agave and peppery spice dance around the mouth. The pepper rushes through to create a mouth watering finish. This is perfect for

“Our advice is to help the consumers understand the process behind how some

And according to Flynn, such discussions

of these products are made, and together we

grow awareness further, which sparks more

can change perceptions with a little more

trial, awareness and discussions – it’s quite the

information,” Flynn said.

positive growth cycle.

Wearin emphasised: “Make sure the NOLO

“It’s important to consider the consumers

product invests in marketing and education

who are buying these products and the

because this is still an emerging category and

occasions in which they are consumed. The

requires the brand to do some heavy lifting and

highly involved wine consumer may not be

drive to the shelf.”

the target but there’s lots of consumers who

In terms of in-store placement, Heineken’s

and is a great option as a

are buying into health and wellness trends that

spokesperson said: “Globally, retailers have seen

Collins. Or try a Bloody Maria for

these products will appeal to,” Flynn said.

a grapefruit or rhubarb Paloma,

an early morning pickup!

Along with the more obvious alcohol occasions, the NOLO sector also introduces some new occasions, according to Shufelt. “I think consumers are starting to realise that great beverages no longer have to be reserved for special occasions or Friday/ Saturday nights, but can be had anytime and anywhere,” he said.

Latest and greatest With so many products out there and more entering every day, the state of the NOLO sector is continuing to develop. Producers from this story have shared their latest and greatest retailer tips for staying ahead of it all. The biggest and most consistent message is to keep an open mind about NOLO. 56 | National Liquor News

NON-ALCOHOLIC MARGARITA? MAKE IT A LYRE’S.

Lyre’s award-winning range of non-alcoholic spirits are quietly changing the way the world drinks. How? By giving drinkers and non-drinkers alike the freedom to drink their drink, their way. Is your venue missing out on the growth from Lyre’s premium non-alcoholic options? Why not test the waters and unlock the consumer opportunity with an alcohol free margarita made possible with Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic Agave Blanco Spirit and Orange Sec.

STAY SPIRITED. make it a lyre’s. AVAILABLE AT LYRES.COM.AU NOT SUITABLE FOR INDIVDUALS UNDER THE LEGAL DRINKING AGE

No and Low Alcohol

Giesen 0% Sauvignon Blanc The world’s first alcoholremoved New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, sporting a fresh new look! Zero per cent alcohol and 100 per cent flavour. Plus, for the healthconscious consumer, there’s 80 per cent fewer calories than traditional 12.5 per cent Sauvignon Blanc, only 13 calories per serve. Experience delicate aromas of fresh lime, redcurrant, and lemon shortbread, delicious citrus flavours followed by distinct

Heineken 0.0 Brewing a great tasting 0.0 per cent alcohol free malt beverage, is it even possible?

blackcurrant and passionfruit

great success from having ‘NOLO zones’ in-store to help guide and

notes, and a

educate consumers on the path to purchase.”

crisp, dry finish.

This is something that is often discussed in the industry,

Giesen Group

The master brewers at

but Gloster also advised this doesn’t mean you should “squirrel

is taking the

Heineken® started from zero

away” the NOLO section at the back of the store, as proximity

non-alcoholic

and spent years exploring,

to full strength favourites is critical on the path to purchase.

wine category

brewing, and tasting before

Clear and prominent signage and information can help with

seriously,

they finally created a recipe

this in-store awareness.

investing over

defined by its refreshing fruity notes and soft malty body perfectly balanced and one that deserves the Heineken mark. Of course, with the uncompromising Heineken characteristics since 1873: made with top ingredients and Heineken’s unique A-Yeast. It wasn’t easy, but not impossible. Heineken® 0.0. Great taste, zero alcohol.

58 | National Liquor News

If you’re not sure where to even start with curating at the best

a million dollars

NOLO selection for your specific store, West has some solid advice

in their own

– apply the same strategy you would for any section of your store.

specialised

“If you’re a smaller store, lead with a couple of the mainstream

spinning cone

market leaders, but also offer a couple of premium offerings to help

technology to

with trade up. If you’re a bigger retailer or beer focused retailer, look

further refine

at what styles of beers sell in your store and make sure you have

its Giesen 0%

tailored your no-low offerings to mirror these styles,” West said.

wine range. The

“Use your own experience to make sure you’ve got the best possible range to offer your shoppers.”

■

perfect Savvy choice!

Great Taste Alcohol Free Now you can

Beer and Brewer’s expert panel has focused on midstrengths in its latest edition, reviewing a category that continues to evolve to meet Australian consumer tastes and lifestyles.

The Brew Review

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What’s our Seasonal Focus? Mid-strengths

*Not all submissions to our tasting panel are featured here. This could be because we had too many to sample or the product did not meet our panel’s requirements. We are not in the business of running any one down, and if there is a chance to speak with a brewery about issues that may have arisen during a tasting, then we will endeavour to pass that information on in the interest of transparency.

The Panel Jono Outred, WA

Liam Pereira, NSW

Benji Bowman, NSW

Based in Margaret River, Jono is a beer writer that predominantly covers the South West of WA. He’s been involved in the state’s beer industry in various capacities since 2011.

Liam is the group venue manager for Sydney’s Batch Brewing Co. A Certified Cicerone® and BJCP judge, he was previously general manager of Sydney Beer Week.

With a background in Australian craft beer and cider, Benji is now part of the sales team at Capital Brewing in NSW where he leads the beer and quality training for the sales team.

David Ward, ACT Head of sales for BentSpoke Brewing Co and with over 10 years’ experience working in the craft beer industry, David is constantly on the lookout for new beers to try and trends to watch.

Scott Hargrave, NSW/QLD Scott is Balter Brewing’s multiaward winning head brewer and a regular on some of Australia’s and the world’s most prestigious judging panels including the Great American Beer Festival and the World Beer Cup.

Tina Panoutsos, VIC One of Australia’s leading beer judges, Tina is a beer sensory expert with over 30 years’ experience in the brewing industry in roles across technical and commercial functions.

Tiffany Waldron, VIC A Certified Cicerone® and Pink Boots President, Tiffany is focused on making changes in the world of beer through education and furthering beer culture beyond standard boundaries.

Justin Fox, VIC Currently head of sales at Bintani, Justin has had a long and decorated career in the beer industry – from the likes of heading up Colonial’s brewing to appearing on many a beer judging panel.

60 | National Liquor News

Rosemary Lilburne-Fini, NSW Now calling Sydney home, Certified Cicerone® Rosemary has spent the last five years working in premium beer outlets in both the on-premise and retail channels.

Josh Quantrill, NSW Currently Beerfarm’s head of sales, Josh is a Certified Cicerone® who’s had a long and varied beer career. He strives to help grow and expand the footprint of Australian craft beer.

Jake Brandish, WA Beer & Brewer’s HomeBrewer Editor, Jake has a post-grad Dip in Brewing, is a BJCP judge, has brewed commercially and is an all round beer geek.

Neal Cameron, NSW A champion of the industry, Neal, amongst many achievements, has built 20 breweries nationally with brewery supplier Brewtique plus was chief judge at the Sydney Royal Beer and Cider Show.

Ian Kingham, NSW

Steve Brockman, SA

That Beer Bloke, Ian’s decorated beer career has included judging at the Australian Craft Beer Show, Royal Perth Beer Show and the Sydney Royal Beer and Cider Award.

After 10 years brewing in WA, the US and now SA, Steve consults for start-up breweries and passionately believes in beer education, both for drinkers and brewers alike.

Michael Capaldo, NSW

Briony Liebich, SA

National sales rep at Hop Products Australia, Michael is a qualified and experienced brewer and an accomplished beer judge (GABS, World Beer Cup, Indies, AIBA etc).

A Certified Cicerone® focussed on helping people boost their tasting skills, Briony led West End’s sensory program for 10 years and judges at national beer and cider awards.

Jamie Webb-Smith, NSW Previously a brewer at The Australian Brewery, Jamie is currently head brewer at Yulli’s Brews in Sydney. He’s a home brewer turned pro, who completed the NSW TAFE microbrewing course.

Vincent de Soyres, NSW As co-owner and head brewer at Frenchies Bistro & Brewery, Vince develops award winning brews that extend beyond the limits of traditional beer categories and styles. As published in Beer and Brewer Autumn 2022

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The Brew Review

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Balter Brewing Captain Sensible

Beerfarm Royal Standard

Pikes Beer Co Pale Ale

Maku Hemp Session Ale

Public Brewing Feather Weight

ABV: 3.5% Style: Mid-strength Pale

ABV: 3.5% Style: Mid-strength Hazy Pale

ABV: 4.0% Style: Mid-strength Pale

ABV: 4.7% Style: Mid-strength Pale

ABV: 2.9% Style: Mid-strength Lager

Like most things Balter, it’s well thought out and well made and offers a little more oomph for your money than most mid-strengths. It also offers a little more beer satisfaction with its solid malt character and a little happy hoppiness coming up from the rear.

Cloudy with a strawcoloured pour, bold but refined fruit salad characters are dominant, both on the nose and palate. The aromatics in particular are resinous pine, sweet melon, citrus and passionfruit while on tasting, citrus and pine are front and centre. A creamy mouthfeel is present but not over the top, allowing a moderate and clean finish to persist and in general allowing balance to be an overriding characteristic.

It pours a deep gold as fresh apricot and pineapple aromas jump out of the glass. The lower alcohol briefly pops up on the palate as a noticeably lighter body, but it’s not detracting and gentler notes of stone fruit help round it out. It’s the kind of beer that’s sessionable enough to have a few over a hot summer BBQ, but leaves you clear headed enough to drive home.

The idea of hemp and beer is a glorious idea and the flavours in this deliver all the relaxed vibes you would come to expect from this style. Mellow, yellow and well balanced, bitterness is low and finessed hop character makes for an easy drinking beer. Hopefully one day legislation gets behind this style to allow us a little more than just hemp in a beer! Food: Nachos

Lovely citrus notes of orange, lemon and grapefruit emanate from this amber, gold brew. The palate has good weight and offers a malt sweetness of caramel and biscuit. The finish lingers with low bitterness and disguises the low alcohol credentials. A smashable light beer with great credentials, punching like a middleweight, drinking as a featherweight. Food: Lamb Skewers

maku.com.au

publicbrewingco.com.au

Food: Smoked lamb ribs

pikesbeercompany.com.au

Food: Buffalo wings balter.com.au

Food: Steak & garden salad

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Aether Brewing Chaotic Good

Rocky Ridge Session IPL

Slipstream Brewing Billy Cart Pale Ale

Sanctus Brewing Judicious Mid

TWØBAYS Brewing Session Ale

ABV: 3.3% Style: Mid-strength Pilsner

ABV: 3.4% Style: Mid-strength IPL

ABV: 3.4% Style: Mid-strength Pale

ABV: 3.0% Style: Mid-strength Pale

ABV: 3.5% Style: Mid-strength Pale

Bright, golden and pours with a dense white foam. Tropical fruit and underlying floral notes are rounded out by a hint of caramelised malt on the aroma. Quick off the palate and moderately lingering in bitterness, it finishes a little dry with some light spice astringency.

This refreshing malt forward mid pours pale to light golden with striking clarity. The light bready and citrus aromas double up as you take a sip to reveal crisp and easy drinking flavours. This beer boasts a moderate bitterness with a light body. This is the perfect gateway beer to offer that guest that just can’t get past drinking macro beers.

The Session Ale pours brassy in colour and has good foam for style. The citrus aroma from the hops is pleasant and the palate is clean and fresh. The body is surprisingly sturdy and refreshing where hints of lemon and orange predate the millet maltiness. The finish is pleasant with no real bitterness or malt carry.

Food: Charcuterie board

twobays.beer

A New Zealand-style Pilsner that’s brewed with all Kiwi hops (Taiheke, Wai-iti, Hort 4337) and Voyager Schooner, Winter Wheat and Schooner Vienna malts from NSW, it’s pale straw, bright, clear and built for sessioning. Despite its lower ABV, it’s fairly complex by Pilsner standards thanks to the varied hop and malt bill which emit light citrus and stone fruit characters and plenty of body. Certainly good.

A beer for any occasion. Offering a full-flavoured profile but teetering in the mid-strength arena, it still exhibits vibrant Australian hop characters that span the citrus, pine and fruit salad spectrum. A light body isn’t so light it can’t carry said flavours, but it is super refreshing with a tight, clean finish and some gentle malt flavour present. Hop aromatics are still abundant, reeking of freshness while bitterness is entirely in check.

Food: Sausage sarny

Food: Seafood

aetherbrewing.com.au

rockyridgebrewing.com.au

Food: Wood fired margarita pizza slipstreambrewing.com.au

Food: BBQ meat

sanctusbrewingco.com.au

April 2022 | 61

Wine Tasting Review

Riesling and Semillon This month our panel sipped and swirled through a range of Riesling and Semillon, to find the standout wines across three price brackets.

Panels Picks

The Panel ➤

➤

A ndrew Milne, Brand Manager, SouthTrade International J onathan Leeming, Brand Manager, Taylors Wines E mma Fogarty, Brand Manager, SouthTrade International T ishena Young, National Account Executive, Constellation Brands G eoff Bollom, Retailer, Porter’s – Glebe and Balmain East D avid Fahey, Wine Consultant N igel Burton, CEO, Burton Premium Wines B rian Chase Olson, Director, Blend Public Relations S abine Duval, Brand and Sales Manager, Hungerford Hill Wines D aryl Fisher, General Manager, Fisher Fine Wines

The System 95-100 Classic: an exceptional wine 90-94 Outstanding: a wine of remarkable character 85-89 Very good: a wine with impressive qualities

62 | National Liquor News

Peter Lehmann

Mount Pleasant

Konrad Dry

Masters Wigan

Lovedale Semillon

Riesling

Region: Hunter Valley

Region: Marlborough NZ

Region: Eden Valley

VIN: 2014 LUC: $16.60

VIN: 2017 LUC: $14.84

VIN: 2015 LUC: $31.50

Distributed by: Mount

Distributed by: Robert

Distributed by: Casella

Pleasant Wines

Oatley Vineyards

“Semillon showing great structure and poise for its age, with more years to come. Acid structure is balanced with a lovely smoky character.” – Sabine Duval

“Good example of a well aged Riesling. Notes of kerosene sit alongside nashi pear and lemon rind. Acidity still nice and firm.” – Andrew Milne

Family Brands

“This was exactly what I wanted from aged Riesling. Amazing complex nose, developed flavours on the palate, and enough fruit and acid to back it up. Beautiful.” – Emma Fogarty

Wine Tasting Review

LUC over $25 Peter Lehmann

Ashton Hills

Masters Margaret

Vineyard Estate

Semillon

Riesling

Region: Barossa

Region: Adelaide Hills

VIN: 2015 LUC: $31.50

VIN: 2021 LUC: $27.08

Distributed by:

Casella Family Brands

Negociants Australia

“Earthy and wholesome. What a lovely wine. Stewed stone fruits and lemon rind balance wonderfully amidst the smoky note in the backdrop.” – Andrew Milne

“A classic Riesling on the nose and palate, with some nice aromatics and great acid backbone.” – Jonathan Leeming

“Pleasing to see so many wines with varietal characteristics, but some wines failed to have the correct acid balance, making them hard to drink. This will dissipate over time.” Nigel Burton

Audrey Wilkinson Winemaker’s Selection Semillon Region: Hunter Valley VIN: 2021 LUC: $25.80

CEO Burton Premium Wines

Orlando Steingarten Riesling Region: Eden Valley VIN: 2019 LUC: $36.06

Distributed by: Agnew Wines

Distributed by:

“A fresh burst of raspberry and lime. A little short but very enjoyable, a little out of the ordinary, a pleasant surprise.” – Tishena Young

“Ginger, white pepper, lemon and lime. Nicely balanced.” – Emma Fogarty

Pernod Ricard

Zilzie Limited Edition Riesling Region: Clare Valley VIN: 2020 LUC: $49.45

Harewood Estate

Distributed by: Fesq and

Tunney Riesling

Company (VIC, NSW, QLD,

Region: Great Southern

ACT), Options Wine Merchants

VIN: 2021 LUC: $30.00

(SA, NT), Distinctive Wines and

Distributed by:

Spirits (WA), Swallow Liquor

Single Vineyard Sellers

Food Pairing ➤

➤

Merchants (TAS)

“A good attractive wine showing lingering aromas of chamomile and dandelion. Well balanced with lime/orange finish.” – David Fahey

“Exquisite nose! Jasmine, honeysuckle, white flower blossom. Palate reflects nose. Absolutely beaut wine, would love to drink a glass in five to 10 years.” – Jonathan Leeming

➤

“ I love a good pork chop alongside an aged Riesling.” – Andrew Milne “ Semillon works nicely with oysters and seafood.” – David Fahey “ For Riesling – fish and chips cuts through the acid. For Semillon – ceviche.” – Sabine Duval “ Korean fried chicken and kimchi is nice with Riesling.” – Tishena Young

April 2022 | 63

Wine Tasting Review

LUC $16-$25 Grant Burge

Parish Vineyard

Centenarian

Riesling

Semillon

“The 2021 wines may need a bit more time in the cellar before cracking them open. Riesling is very expressive, so you can tell which wines were crafted from good quality fruit without too much intervention from the winemaker.” Brian Chase Olson Director Blend Public Relations

VIN: 2021 LUC: $21.91

VIN: 2016 LUC: $21.29

Distributed by:

Samuel Smith & Son

Accolade Wine

“Nice complexity from its age, acid still doing its thing. Fruit balanced. A well made and beautiful aged Sem.” – Geoff Bollom

Vineyard The Contours Riesling Region: Eden Valley VIN: 2015 LUC: $24.85 Distributed by:

“Clean and classic Riesling fruit. Balanced acid, long finish.” – Nigel Burton

➤

C alabria Bros Riesling 2021, Eden Valley (Calabria Family Wine Group) M argan Semillon 2021, Hunter Valley (Margan Wines, Cuttings Wine Merchants (NSW))

“Very cool. Bright, fresh acidity with a touch of lime and summery sweetness.” – Brian Chase Olson

Pewsey Vale

Samuel Smith & Son

Editor’s Picks

Region: Tasmania

Region: Barossa

Pikes Traditionale Riesling Region: Clare Valley VIN: 2021 LUC: $18.71 Distributed by: Oatley Fine Wine Merchants

“Good yellow/green colour with an attractive fruit nose. Acid prominent but with a long fruit aftertaste.” – David Fahey

Howard Park Flint Rock Riesling Region: Great Southern VIN: 2021 LUC: $16.72 Distributed by: Off The Vine (WA), Thomas Chin Pty Ltd

Devils Corner Resolution Riesling

(NT), The Wine Tradition (QLD),

Region: Tasmania

Aus Craft Wine (SA), Young

VIN: 2019 LUC: $19.35

B ay Of Fires Riesling 2021, Tasmania (Accolade Wine)

& Rashleigh Wine Merchants

Distributed by:

(NSW), Alepat Taylor (VIC),

Brown Family Wine Group

M illon The Impressionist Riesling 2021, Eden Valley (Millon Wines)

DWS Tasmania (TAS)

B rand’s Laira Old Station Riesling 2021, Coonawarra (Casella Family Brands)

64 | National Liquor News

“Well made with structure. Slight sherbet lemon. A classic Riesling showing great varietal expression.” – Sabine Duval

“Lovely aged Riesling characters, with a bit of kerosene and lime notes. Amazing wine, rich and complex.” – Daryl Fisher

Wine Tasting Review

LUC under $16 d’Arenberg The Dry

La Boheme Act One

Dam Riesling

Riesling

Region: McLaren Vale and

Region: Yarra Valley

Adelaide Hills

VIN: 2021 LUC: $15.73

VIN: 2021 LUC: $15.59

Distributed by: De Bortoli

Distributed by: Off The Vine

➤

(WA), Empire Liquor (SA),

“Very nicely balanced. Sharp

Young & Rashleigh (ACT, NSW),

lemon cuts into some nice citrus fruit sweetness.” – Brian Chase Olson

The Wine Company (VIC), The Wine Tradition (QLD)

“Fresh lemon and lime and ripe stone fruit come through on the finish. Lovely easy drinking wine with a long finish.” – Andrew Milne

Riesling Label Riesling

➤

Fox Creek Ferngrove Black

Fun facts about Riesling and Semillon

Region: Clare Valley VIN: 2021 LUC: $13.29

Region: Great Southern

Distributed by:

VIN: 2020 LUC: $13.33

Pure Wine Co.

➤

R iesling grapes originate from Germany, with the first recorded mention of them appearing in 1435. S emillon originates from the Bordeaux region of France. F or a while in Semillon’s past in Australia, it was known as Hunter River Riesling. Today the Hunter Valley is know for its Semillon. B oth varietals, when made and aged under the right conditions, are known to be some of the best white wines to age.

Distributed by: Ferngrove Wines

“Lemon curd and ripe peach on the palate. Very easy drinking white.” – Andrew Milne

“Crisp green apples, green leaves. Good colour. Great value if you’re looking for a young Riesling.” – Geoff Bollom

Giesen Estate

Allinda

Riesling

Region: New Zealand

Region: Yarra Valley

VIN: 2020 LUC: $13.76

VIN: 2016 LUC: $14.87

Distributed by: Robert Oatley

Distributed by: Agnew Wines

Vineyards

“Sugars and acid are balanced. Quite a presentable example of an off-dry Riesling.” – Geoff Bollom

“Lovely ripe fruit on the palate, racy acidity and nice balance. Typical of style, good value for money.” – Jonathan Leeming

“Often too much acid in Rieslings, making them unbalanced. Most if not all of the Semillons were very well made.” Geoff Bollom Retailer Porters – Glebe and Balmain East

April 2022 | 65

Retailer Profile

A hero of local product in Newcastle Artisanal Cellars has celebrated a wide range of local wines, beers and spirits since the store opened in August 2021. When Darrell Stapleton set out to create

“Not only are we engaging our members

Artisanal Cellars in Newcastle, NSW, he

and community directly, but the suppliers we

developed a straightforward yet successful

have chosen to partner up with and promote

retail philosophy: “Range, knowledge,

are all community-based members here in

service and customer engagement.”

the Hunter region as well,” Stapleton said.

Artisanal Cellars has a footprint of only 190sqm, but it uses every centimetre

It is these local producers that have proven most popular with customers.

to showcase its range and variety. One

“Some of our big movers are from local

innovative use of space is the shop’s ‘gin wall’

suppliers, whether it be wine, beer or spirits.

featuring over 200 different gin expressions.

I might be biased, but I think the Hunter

“It’s like its own little shop-in-shop

punches above its weight with the product

concept, it even has its own website,”

quality, branding and price points we have,”

Stapleton said.

Stapleton added.

Across the rest of the store there is more of

“[These producers] all have very loyal

a muted design, with museum-style lighting

followings, and to be able to offer that in

placing the focus on the products themselves.

our store is a real honour – we have suppliers

Stapleton was determined for the products

with vineyards that are 140 years old, to

to be heroed, with strong customer service

start-up distilleries and breweries, and

supporting this and also providing a key point

everything in between.”

of difference to competitors.

Stapleton recognises that it is

“I was tired of heading into any of the

sometimes a difficult market for smaller

major retailers and not even being greeted

stores like Artisanal Cellars, but believes

or acknowledged,” Stapleton explained.

that independent retailers have certain

“We like to think our staff are one of our

advantages that help keep them competitive.

biggest differentiators from our competitors.

Being agile, open to opportunities and

Not only are they the face of the company,

aware of your abilities in Australia’s liquor

but they drive the consistency we have of

landscape is important, and this has allowed

great customer service and engagement.”

Artisanal Cellars to stay strong throughout

Stapleton is hoping to build upon this

recent challenges – for example, the store

service with a membership program that

opening right as Newcastle went into

will engage customers with special releases

lockdown last year.

and promotions. Artisanal Cellars has

“As a small independent, it’s imperative

already run a few eye-catching giveaways

that we have the right concept, staff and

to boost this engagement with great success,

offering in the marketplace,” Stapleton said.

including a new motor scooter from Fraser

“With all the adversity we have faced as

Motorcycles Newcastle, a surfboard with a

a little start-up, independent retailer in one

special Earp Distillery hand painted design,

of the most uncertain times in commercial

and an ‘instant wine cellar’ from Andrew

history, just keep your eye on the game, stay

Thomas Wines.

focused and just keep moving forward.”

66 | National Liquor News

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National Liquor News April 2022

Articles inside

Retailer Profile: Artisanal Cellars

No and Low Alcohol: Into the light

World Cocktail Day

RTD: The RTD Renaissance

Mother's Day: Mum’s the word!

Mother’s Day: not just Champagne and flowers

IRI: The rise of canned wine

Retailer Profile: Fleet Street Epping