AUSTRALIA’S LEADING LIQUOR INDUSTRY MAGAZINE
vol. 41 no. 4 - May 2022
Enjoy the deliciousness responsibly.
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Editor’s note
Editor’s note
WE ENCOURAGE RESPONSIBLE DRINKING Get the facts DrinkWise.org.au
Welcome to another big issue of National Liquor
40, which is a sector that is bigger and better than
News for our May 2022 edition.
ever, and continues to build more strength too. Then
What a big month this past one has been! With
from page 46, Andrew Graham analyses the value
three public holidays and events well and truly back
of family wineries, while from page 30, Seamus May
on the industry’s calendar, myself and the whole team
looks into the opportunity behind the Aperitivo
at Food and Beverage Media have been as busy as ever.
occasion in the cooler months.
Amongst this flurry of activity, I was so excited
This content is rounded out by the latest news,
to get down to the Formula 1 Heineken Australian
as well as insights and analysis from regular
Grand Prix in Melbourne again – it’s been four years
contributors such as Alcohol Beverages Australia,
since I’ve enjoyed the hospitality, the cars and the
Retail Drinks Australia, Strikeforce, Wine
atmosphere of the event, and what an incredible
Australia, DrinkWise and IRI. Plus, our expert
example of how the country is reopening. Meanwhile
panel of wine tasters has reviewed a range of Pinot
in Sydney, it was also great to see our friends in the
Gris and Pinot Grigio wines, from page 54..
on-premise industry come back together at the Pub
May your May be busy and prosperous as the
Leaders Summit, hosted last month by our sister title,
weather cools down and the ground hopefully
Australian Hotelier. There’s also been a range of other
dries out. If you have any feedback or stories to
awesome industry events happening lately, some of
share, please do reach out, as I’m always keen to
which we’ve covered from page 14 of this issue.
hear from you! Cheers,
– all this movement definitely proves the vibrancy of
Brydie
Australia’s entire liquor industry right now. In this issue we’ve looked into some topics that are
02 8586 6156
there is our feature on Australian spirits from page
ballen@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
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Brydie Allen, Editor
also key demonstrators of this vibrancy. For example,
Publisher: Paul Wootton pwootton@intermedia.com.au
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Outside of events themselves, there has been a huge amount of activity across the industry recently
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Top Reads ➤
40 Aussie spirits
➤
46 Family wineries
➤
30 Aperitivo for winter
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4 | National Liquor News
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Contents May 2022
Regulars
30 Retailing Aperitivo:
10 News: The latest liquor
Ancient tradition meets
industry news for retailers
modernity
around Australia
58 E-commerce: Top themes
12 Changing Rank:
of opportunity for e-retail
BrightSide announces its latest industry appointments 14 Events: An exclusive look
Wine 26 Wine Australia: Online
into recent industry events 16 Marketplace: Brand news
with wine 46 Family Wineries: A family
and promotions 22 Alcohol Beverages
affair 54 Wine Tasting Review:
Australia: Maintaining
Pinot Gris and Grigio
global best practice 24 DrinkWise: A new take on the Never Have I Ever concept
Beer 36 Imported and International Beer: A
Retail Focused
window to the world 52 Brew Review: Autumn beers
23 Retail Drinks Australia: BOCSAR research doesn’t paint full picture of alcohol availability and harm 25 Strikeforce: Filling in the gaps 28 IRI: Reimagining retail for the roaring twenties
6 | National Liquor News
Spirits 8 Cover Story: Batch & Bottle celebrates cocktail confidence 40 Australian Spirits: A spirited country
MIX WITH THE BEST THIS WORLD GIN DAY
IF
O F YO U R D R I N K I S T H E M I X E R ,
M I X W I T H T H E B E ST
Celebrate World Gin Day on 11th June with Fever-Tree. Follow Fever-Tree to find out more. #PERFECTPARING
- FEVERTREEAUS
- FEVERTREEAU
Cover Story
Batch & Bottle celebrates cocktail confidence The Batch & Bottle range from William Grant & Sons is proving you don’t have to settle for anything less than the best when it comes to cocktails at home. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a
about the brands they drink. For decades
an opportunity to showcase the world-
premium cocktail that combines the
William Grant & Sons has continually
class brands in the William Grant &
highest quality spirits and ingredients. This
produced premium and luxury spirits, but
Sons portfolio, while also providing an
experience was once limited only to the
for the consumer who wants to indulge
uncomplicated solution to perfect cocktail
top bars of the on-premise industry, but
in an upgraded at-home experience,” said
serves created and produced using our
since the start of the pandemic, consumers
Nathan James, Marketing Manager at
industry expertise.”
have developed a taste for bringing their
William Grant & Sons.
favourite cocktails into the comfort of their own homes. These days, time-poor and mindful consumers are less willing than ever to compromise on quality with these drinks experiences. The only problem with this is confidence – actually creating these cocktails to bar-standards can be a hassle, especially for those who don’t have much mixology knowledge. This is why demand for premium home cocktail solutions has never been higher, and it’s a demand that William Grant & Sons has risen to with its Batch & Bottle range of world-class bottled cocktails. “Consumers are adopting a ‘less is better’ mentality and becoming more discerning 8 | National Liquor News
Batch & Bottle cocktails have carefully
“Now, with Batch & Bottle they can do so
combined the finest ingredients to provide
without the fuss or cocktail accoutrements.
sophisticated cocktails that can elevate any
The premium pre batch cocktails provide
occasion. The new and innovative range lets
Cover Story
consumers be confident around cocktails
went into the creation of Batch & Bottle
in the home – all they need to do is simply
also has an inherently local element. The
chill, pour, garnish and serve.
Hendrick’s Gin Martini was developed in
“From a dinner party at home to a picnic
collaboration with five of the world’s top bars,
in the park with friends, a perfect occasion
including Maybe Sammy in Sydney. It was
needs the right drink,” said James.
a unique way for William Grant & Sons to
“The varied Batch & Bottle range with
support the bartending community get back
four different flavours - Hendrick’s Gin
on their feet, while also delivering a great
Martini, Glenfiddich Scotch Manhattan,
outcome for consumers via the off-premise.
Monkey Shoulder Lazy Old Fashioned and
Each Batch & Bottle cocktail pours seven
Reyka Vodka Rhubarb Cosmopolitan –
serves, and is a cost effective and convenient
allows consumers to re-create the classics to
way to enjoy premium cocktails at home,
suit every taste. Mixed with precision, each
with any excuse. Today, consumers are
sip delivers an impeccable blend of quality
enjoying upgrading simple evenings spent
and flavour.”
at home with friends using interesting and
While these spirit brands are internationally renowned, the expertise that
exceptional drinks, and the Batch & Bottle allows them to do this with ease.
■
May 2022 | 9
News The latest liquor industry
For retailers around the country
AVC rebrands 21 liquor retail outlets with LMG Australian Venue Co (AVC) has selected Liquor Marketing Group (LMG) as its partner of choice to rebrand 21 liquor retail outlets. After an extensive tender submission process, AVC selected LMG to undertake the rebrand of the stores, located across five states. LMG began the rebranding in February this year, with the refreshed stores sitting under the Bottlemart, SipnSave and Harry Brown retail banners. LMG CEO, Gavin Saunders, said: “AVC’s portfolio is strong in both numbers and iconic venues and LMG is thrilled to
Dan Murphy’s unveils first premium wine Cellar store
have been appointed as their preferred
Endeavour Group has opened the first new premium concept Dan Murphy’s
goals – both AVC and LMG are steadfast in
store in Lane Cove, featuring a bottle of the first vintage of Penfolds Grange,
our commitment to creating exceptional,
worth $160,000.
local customer experiences and delivering
Dan Murphy’s Managing Director, Alex Freudmann, said the consumer
partner. This exciting new partnership is built on a foundation of shared business
excellence at scale.
preference for more premium products was a key motivator in opening the store.
“We look forward to working closely with
“We know that customers are drinking better, which is why we wanted to
AVC to expand our brand reach and bring the
create destinations where wine lovers can discover and access some of the
Bottlemart, SipnSave and Harry Brown retail
best wines from Australia and the world,” he said.
and e-commerce offers to many more locations
The Cellar features a range of over 2800 products, of which about 350 are so rare that the store only has one or two bottles available. The rarest and finest are housed in the ‘Icon Room’, which is also home to a 1951 Penfolds Grange, thought to be one of only 35 still in existence. Walter Henao, an experienced sommelier and WSET diploma holder, has been tapped to manage the new store. “We’re expecting some wine-loving customers to travel interstate to
across the country and unlock further growth opportunities within each of these venues.” AVC Chief Operating Officer, Craig Ellison, added: “We share a similar ethos to LMG of empowering our managers to tailor their business to the local community, so it’s a really strong alignment for us. LMG offers tailored
visit us to discover the range and access the wines we have in this store,”
marketing support to their member stores,
Henao commented.
which allows the store manager to stay in the
To accompany the new store, Dan Murphy’s has developed ‘the Merchant’s Signature Service’ – a personalised virtual curation service. “Customers will be able to live chat with the Cellar’s experts directly from our cellar during opening hours, which will help us to offer a highly trusted and personalised service digitally,” Henao explains. Temperature is set at 17 degrees at the store, considered ideal for the storage of red wine, while state-of-the-art wine cabinets contain other varietals at their perfect climate. On-demand tastings and events will be facilitated by enomatic machines, which allow for the tasting and preservation of premium wines. 10 | National Liquor News
driver’s seat and deliver customer experience designed specifically for the local community.”
News
Male millennials drive recent sparkling wine growth Top Newsletter reads
Wine Intelligence analysis has found that sparkling wine drinkers are likely to be urban affluent consumers from the under-45 demographic, a trend consistent across the English-speaking world. Wine Intelligence has found that there appears to be an acceleration of patterns that were already present in the sparkling wine category, including the exiting of the category by drinkers over the age of 55. This has been a pattern in sparkling wine since at least 2016, resulting in a net-reduction in the
➤
total number of sparkling drinkers in certain markets.
A BAC announces changes to prevetting service
As with many drinks categories, sparkling wine is also seeing increased premiumisation amongst younger drinkers, who are more likely to trade up with their choices. This is further driven by the lack
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of travel and the closure of venues, which has led to an increase in disposable income amongst millennials and adult-aged Gen Z consumers.
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Drinkers in these cohorts are also more enthusiastic about socialising and visiting on-premise venues than older generations. Contrary to sparkling wine stereotypes, new drinkers in the sparkling
C oles Liquor moves to AI replenishment A ussies win big at San Francisco World Spirits Competition
wine category are more likely to be male than female. In a statement about this research, Wine Intelligence said: “While those over the age of 55 firmly believe that there is a time and place for sparkling wine, namely during special occasions, those in the 25-39 age bracket see no problem having a glass at the end of a weekday or breaking out the bottle during a casual meal at home.” The full report is available on the Wine Intelligence website.
Sign up to our fortnightly Newsletter by going to this URL: https://theshout.com.au/ national-liquor-news/ subscribe/
Australia stars on World’s Most Admired Wine Brands list Six Australian wine brands have been placed on The World’s Most Admired Wine Brands list by Drinks International, including a debut showing on the list for McWilliam’s Wines. The list, which is in its 12th year, comprises of 50 of the most loved and respected wine brands globally and is compiled by an academy of top retailers, sommeliers, buyers and Masters of Wine from six continents. Australian wine brands have emerged from a challenging period of bushfires, pandemic and tariffs and the strong showing on this year’s list will help wineries demonstrate the quality of Australian wine as they look to break into new international markets. McWilliam’s joins other familiar Australian producers on the list, including Penfolds (#2), 19 Crimes (#18), Henschke (#21), Yellow Tail (#24), and Yalumba (#33). The debut of McWilliam’s Wines on the list reflects the
Andrew Calabria and Scott McWilliam
significant development in the winery’s journey over the last two years. The sixth-generation family winery boasts over 140 years
all of the notable Australian producers who have received a
of winemaking history, embodied through its rich portfolio of
mention this year.
premium wines. Sixth-generation Global Brand Ambassador, Scott McWilliam,
“For McWilliam’s Wines to earn a spot among the most respected wineries in the world is a testament to our
said: “The growing collection of Australian wineries on this
perseverance, rich heritage, and unique partnership that we have
distinguished list is hugely exciting for our industry. We commend
formed with Calabria Family Wines.” May 2022 | 11
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 too.
Asahi Beverages is thrilled
Campari welcomed
Dan Killey is the new
Proximo is excited
Grant Howard will be
to have Ben Farlow
Josh Comerford to their
Chief Executive
to have Gabrielle
focusing on strategic
as Head of Innovation
National Accounts
Officer at Pure Wine
Bielawski join the team
growth in his new role
CUB, leading long-term
team to work alongside
Co bringing a wealth
as their On-Premise
as Head of Commerical
strategy for Beer &
IBA.
of wine industry
Specialist in Brisbane.
Sales at Fever-Tree.
Darren Williamson is the new BDM for LMG SA, working with members and providing key solutions at store level.
Ingrid Archer is loving
Premium Beverages.
experience.
LMG is excited to have
BrightSide is looking
Alex Smith is enjoying
Jarryd McCormack join
forward to Vesna
his transition from
the VIC team as the
Pilovski’s return to
hospitality to sales with
new BDM.
recruitment as the new
Proximo as Area Sales
Talent Manager in VIC.
Manager VIC.
her role as State Activation Coordinator VIC with Fever-Tree.
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
12 | National Liquor News
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Events
The latest liquor industry
Events Manly Spirits unveils Coastal Stone whisky range. After flood-induced delays, Manly Spirits welcomed visitors to its Sydney distillery to celebrate the release of its line of single malt whiskies. At the launch, Manly Spirits Founders, David Whittaker and Vanessa Wilton, revealed that Coastal Stone had been years in the making,
Young Henrys honours 10 years with special beer
with the first spirit distilled and laid down in 2017 with the creation
Young Henrys has honoured a decade of ‘serving the
to Coastal Stone’s sherry, bourbon, port, Pinot and Shiraz cask
people’ with a birthday party at its Newtown brewery
whiskies. These guests were some of the first in Australia to try these
and distillery.
wine barrel expressions.
of Manly Spirits. Guests to the event were treated to a tasting of the range, beginning with the distillery’s new make spirit before continuing
In the limelight was the Young Henrys 10 Years Strong beer, a specially produced barrel-aged red ale which has been matured in a combination of rum and port
Vanguard finally gets together again The team at Vanguard Luxury Brands was finally able to come
wine casks. The beers were flowing on the night and
together in person again last month at the company’s first
in keeping with Young Henrys’ rebellious spirit, local
national conference in two years. Lockdowns meant the last
skateboarders demonstrated their best tricks in the
couple of conferences had been cancelled, but this event well
brewery’s forecourt.
and truly made up for it, with representatives coming from across
Volcan De Mi Tierra celebrates launch
the country to host tastings, and international brand partners hosting online trainings and drinks too. The team was also joined
The new tequila brand from Moët Hennessey’s portfolio,
by David Smith, the new Managing Director of Lion, to taste the
Volcan De Mi Tierra, has officially celebrated its Australian
new Four Pillars Fresh Yuzu Gin at the brand’s bar in Surry Hills.
launch with an intimate party in Sydney’s Rose Bay.
Vanguard’s General Manager, Danny Connolly, said: “It was
The event took place at lavish pink-hued mansion, Villa
fantastic for the team to finally meet each other in person. We
Biscaya, which emulates the style of the Mexican home of
can’t wait to show the industry what we have in store from our
Volcan De Mi Tierra. This home was also embodied by the
amazing Vanguard team.”
food and drinks served at the event, but it was the cocktails that shone the most, featuring the Volcan De Mi Tierra in classic tequila mixes such as Palomas, Margaritas and even a Jalisco Mule, a tequilariff on a Moscow Mule. Guests were also treated to a special mariachi band performance and a tasting of the most recently launched Volcan De Mi Tierra SKU, Cristalino. 14 | National Liquor News
Westward launches new expression in Australia Westward Whiskey has introduced its fourth permanent expression into Australia with the release of the American Single Malt Cask Strength. The whisky has already won a double gold at the San Francisco Spirits Competition as it accentuates the elements of Oregon and the American Northwest where the brand calls home. To celebrate the launch of this new SKU, which features the brand’s latest
The Macallan connects chocolate and whisky Luxury single malt whisky brand The Macallan
striking packaging refresh, Westward
has released its latest limited edition whisky as
Whiskey hosted a dinner at Sydney’s Nel
part of the Harmony Collection. This collection
restaurant, pairing Westward whiskies with
is an exploration into the world of sustainability,
different foods to celebrate their different
fusing innovative techniques at all stages of
nuances. For the Cask Strength Whisky, that
production, both inside and outside the bottle.
reflected toasted almond, graham cracker
The new Rich Cacao SKU from this collection
and black pepper aromas, with flavours of
was created in collaboration between The
sesame, tobacco leaf and cacao with a
Macallan Whisky Maker, Polly Logan, and
honeyed deep and fiery malt finish.
world-renowned pastry chef, Jordi Roca. For this Australian launch, the brand partnered with
Idle Hour celebrates its first year as official vodka of the Australian Grand Prix Australian vodka brand Idle Hour has celebrated the first event of its three year
Jessica Pedemont from Chocolate Artisan, who paired the rare and indulgent chocolate notes of the whisky with specially crafted chocolate bon bons during at dinner at Rockpool.
partnership with the Australian Grand Prix Corporation. As official vodka of the Formula 1 Heineken Australian Grand Prix for 2022, Idle
Fellr Founders, Andy Skora and Will Morgan
Hour hosted a pop up bar in the event’s culture district, M-Lane, which included an exclusive private bar for invited guests. At these bars, guests sipped on specially designed cocktails that embodied a taste of Melbourne and the Formula 1, while all track-goers across the whole event enjoyed the brand’s range of vodka soda RTDs. The first year of this partnership went extremely well, with demand for all Idle Hour products sky-high, boding well for the 2023 and 2024 Grand Prix events to come. The Formula 1 Heineken Australian Grand Prix was an incredibly successful event for all drinks brands involved, including major sponsor Heineken, Aston Martin team sponsor Peroni, and fellow Australian distillery Patient Wolf.
Fellr showcases the Land of Fizz
Fellr recently launched the Land of Fizz, showcasing the works of Ondine Seabrook and Cloudy Rhodes, as captured by Sam Brumby. At the launch of this show, guests gathered at China Heights Gallery in Sydney to view the artworks and short film, while sipping on Fellr’s brewed alcoholic seltzers and cocktail seltzers, including the recently launched flavour of Passionfruit Martini. Food was provided by Fishbowl, with entertainment bolstered by a special DJ performance by Cousin.
May 2022 | 15
Marketplace Brand news and promotions New tequila soda RTD launches in Australia A new RTD tequila soda range has arrived in Australia, developed by the team behind Idle Hour. Delgados Tequila Soda is made with authentic tequila from Jalisco in Mexico, carefully blended with soda and fruit Nick Waterman
juice. It’s available in three light crisp and refreshing flavours, including Lime + Basil, Grapefruit + Jalapeño and Pineapple + Ginger. Co-founder and Director, Ewen Pettit, said the
Yalumba announces 48th Signatory This month Yalumba is releasing the 48th vintage of The Signature
brand was developed to stand apart in a busy
wine, dedicated to the brand’s Managing Director, Nick Waterman, and
category and offer something ‘bursting with the spirit
his significant contributions to Yalumba since 2003.
of a Mexican vacation.’ It also taps into some of the
The dedication was announced by fifth-generation proprietor,
biggest current market trends, such as the growing
Robert Hill-Smith, during his traditional speech on the Signature lawns
appeal of RTDs, premium spirits and tequila.
at Yalumba’s annual Christmas party. Just a few short months later,
“We know drinkers are seeking out higher quality ingredients in RTD and with tequila going from strength to strength, Delgados felt like a logical step. We are proud to be delivering something truly unique to the market here and something that focuses on what’s inside the can,” Pettit said. The distribution of Delgados is supported by Craft Revolution, with its Sales and Marketing Director, Vaughan Thomson, describing the brand as uniquely positioned to tap into the biggest beverage trends. “We jumped at the opportunity to help the guys
it was announced that Waterman would also retire from his role as Managing Director in September 2022. Waterman’s signature and story will be featured on the label of this year’s iconic Barossa Cabernet and Shiraz Signature release. “His leadership has been impactful in all roles, but more particularly of late as a strong reformer and decision-maker and fearless implementer of transformational initiatives across our company,” said Hill-Smith “For our family, he has been a safe pair of hands and loyalty to the success of the company has been profound.” Waterman was humbled to be honoured on his final year with Yalumba, and said he is just one of many who contribute great things
bring this to market because it’s something we know
to the business every day. He has always been struck by the unique
Australians will respond to and the team have what it
culture, commitment and pride of the company’s staff.
takes to introduce a new concept to Aussie drinkers,” Thomson said.
The 48th Signature release was made from the 2018 vintage, which Yalumba Senior Red Winemaker, Kevin Glastonbury described as “one of the very best vintages we’ve had in recent times.” “It gave us beautiful pristine fruit with richness and concentration. Blackberry, blueberries and dark stones with cassis, red currants and cedary spices, with a depth of palate refinement that almost remains timeless. A most sublime mineral framework of perfectly groomed fruit and fine oak tannins intertwine and carry through to the long finish,” said Glastonbury. “We always knew that The Signature 2018 would be a classic wine, one for the long haul in the cellar.”
16 | National Liquor News
Chandon unveils Winemaker Explorations series Brookvale Union releases low sugar ginger beer
Premium sparkling wine producer, Chandon, has officially launched its
Brookvale Union has launched a low sugar version
and harness the knowledge of Chandon’s expert winemaking team with a
of its incredibly popular alcoholic ginger beer,
sense of curiosity and exploration, using unexpected techniques, varietals
tapping into the continued growth of the category
and locations to bring fresh new expressions and experiences.
Winemaker Explorations Series. The two debut wines from the new range are the Chandon Field Blend 2017 and the Chandon Meunier Rosé 2019,
and the ‘better for you’ trend. Designed for consumers seeking lighter and more sessionable beverages, the Brookvale Union
Head Winemaker, Dan Buckle, said: “At Chandon, we are unconstrained by tradition or complex regulation, and so we are free to experiment with different varieties and winemaking techniques.
Low Sugar Full Flava Ginger Beer is set to play
“Our Winemaker Explorations tier allows us to examine the unusual flavours
a key role in introducing new consumers to the
which might come from different grape varieties, and/or the unexpected
category. The brand believes ginger beer is still in
characters that are derived from different winemaking techniques.”
its infancy, and growth will be driven by innovative
Both the new wines are said to emulate Chandon’s dedication and
formats and offerings such as this new SKU, but
commitment to innovation, showcasing the brand’s technical expertise in
also with its recently launched 10 can case.
blending and curation.
The new low sugar version comes in at four per cent ABV, like the original version, but with 70 per
“We see Chandon winemaking as an adventure that will never sit still,” concludes Buckle.
cent less sugar, leading to just 104 calories per can.
Wynns reveals new tier of wines with Reframed Wynns Coonawarra Estate has launched a new tier of wines
grapes. We’re picking earlier for freshness with barbeques,
named Reframed, which represent a “creative renaissance” of
beaches, picnics, and casual occasions in mind. We’re blending
Wynns’ early pioneering years.
in unexpected ways to build interest and texture, and we’re
Reframed includes four new wines, described as artistic and contemporary riffs on the classic Wynns offering. The debut wines of the new range include a Coonawarra Cabernet Rosé; a Limestone Coast Fiano, Pinot Grigio, Arneis; a Coonawarra
bringing a lighter touch to winemaking by using little or no oak to maintain the freshness and aromatics of each wine.” The new Wynns range is available to stock from Treasury Premium Brands.
‘Rogue Vines’ Shiraz Riesling; and a Coonawarra Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon. Wynns Winemaker, Sarah Pidgeon, said: “Our new Reframed wines give us licence to approach varieties in different ways using unusual varietal combinations for Coonawarra and the Limestone Coast. “We’re taking the knowledge and experience of the Wynns team and putting a modern twist on our traditional winemaking practices by exploring new ways to express our beautiful
May 2022 | 17
Marketplace
De Bortoli marks 40 years of Noble One De Bortoli Wines is this year celebrating 40 years of one of its most iconic and award-winning wines, Noble One, which was first pioneered by Darren De Bortoli in 1982 when he was experimenting with Semillon, shortly after finishing his studies at the Roseworthy wine college. Part of the experimentation was looking at the potential to make high-quality dessert wines from grapes that were infected with botrytis, or noble rot, and De Bortoli believed the conditions at the De Bortoli Bilbul Estate vineyard near Griffith in the NSW Riverina region were ideal for sweet wine production. He said: “It feels like only yesterday that Dad and I were asking the local growers to allow their grapes to go rotten. They thought we were both mad, yet here we are celebrating 40 years of Noble One and what a journey it has been.” Over that 40 years Noble One has only missed two rain causing issues for the botrytis. In fact, in 2012 the
Naked Malt launches Live Naked Experience competition
vineyards were flooded.
Scotch whisky brand, Naked Malt, is giving Australians the chance
vintages – 1989 and 2012 – both caused by too much
De Bortoli’s cellar doors kicked off the Noble One 40th celebrations last month with back vintage tastings and pairings with Noble One truffles. The pinnacle of the celebrations will be held later this year.
to go ‘off-grid’ at three of Australia’s most famous destinations with its Live Naked Experience. This competition offers winners a trip of a lifetime to one of three locations, including a five star experience at picturesque Uluru, a unique stay in the majestic Hunter Valley and a stunning architectural marvel on the south coast. Yvette Harapa, Naked Malt’s Brand Manager, said: “Our Live Naked experience could not come at a more suitable time. Whilst international borders are finally reopening for Australians, international travel is still quite challenging and stressful based on various restrictions.” Consumers can enter the competition by buying a bottle of Naked Malt from independent liquor stores, and using a code on the bottle to take an online quiz that will tailor the eventual winner’s holidaying experience. There are also other Camplify vouchers to be won. Spirits Platform’s Head of Marketing, MT Jones, said: “We wanted to showcase Naked Malt beyond the bottle and the Live Naked experience encapsulates what the brand ethos is all about – getting back to your true self. “We celebrate the fresh perspective freedom can bring, and believe doing things differently can lead to greater connections, new discoveries and better experiences.” The competition is running now until June 23, with a winner drawn June 27.
18 | National Liquor News
Marketplace
Crystal Head Vodka adds unique third expression Ultra-premium Crystal Head Vodka has added a
Did you know… Cystal Head Onyx Vodka is distributed in Australia via Amber Beverage Australia.
creative and innovative third expression to its range with the launch of Onyx. Crystal Head Onyx is one of the first agave-based vodkas on the market and comes in a glossy black version of the brand’s iconic skull shaped bottle. With a nose of fresh green grass, nuanced white pepper and hints of citrus, Crystal Head Onyx is soft and smooth on the palate, with a touch of spice and sweetness that develops into the subtle yet unmistakable earthiness of agave. Dan Aykroyd, actor, musician and Crystal Head Founder, said: “Creativity
Chivas celebrates the arts and a bottle redesign Scotch whisky brand, Chivas Regal, is
is at the heart of everything we do. We love to push boundaries and strive to
championing the arts community in its latest
introduce consumers to cutting edge products that create excitement. With
campaign, I Rise, We Rise, fronted by a range
Onyx, we wanted to make an innovative liquid, an agave-based vodka, with an
of creatives who share their definition of
equally imaginative bottle to match. Onyx is unlike anything you have tasted
success through community. It builds on the
before - it drinks like vodka but has the nuances of Blue Weber agave.”
Chivas Venture program, which has donated $6M in funding for cultural businesses since 2014, and has been refreshed this year to
Bacardi releases bottled cocktail range in Australia Bacardi-Martini Australia has introduced Tails Cocktails to Australia, a
support grassroots social change in local communities. I Rise, We Rise also marks the biggest bottle
bottled cocktail brand made using spirits from the Bacardi portfolio. The
redesign in the history of the brand for the
brand launches with four 500ml bottle SKUs - Whisky Sour, featuring Dewar’s
Chivas Regal 12 Year Old. The modern new
Blended Scotch whisky; Gin Gimlet, featuring Bombay Sapphire gin; and
look heroes sustainability with a lighter bottle
Espresso Martini and Passionfruit Martini, both featuring 42 Below vodka.
that reduces glass usage by approximately
Sarah Nichols, Marketing Director for Bacardi-Martini Australia, said: “You can never replace the bar experience, however, we’re wanting
1000 tonnes a year globally, and a fully recyclable outer pack.
to make it hassle-free for people to recreate the magic of a cocktail moment at home. We’re looking forward to working with our retail partners to establish the premium pre-batched cocktail segment to drive incremental value to the liquor category and deliver fantastic new choices and experiences for consumers.”
May 2022 | 19
Marketplace
Belhaven Brewery provides a unique Scottish stout for winter Belhaven Brewery is the oldest working brewery in Scotland, nestled among the rolling barley fields of East Lothian in Dunbar, just over 32km from Edinburgh. Belhaven brews are brought to Australia by Empire Liquor, and with winter in mind, the distributor is celebrating something truly unique from the brewery - Belhaven Black Scottish Stout, one of Scotland’s favourite stouts. The rich and welcoming stout is brewed from 100 per cent Scottish grown barley,
Tarsier Gin touches down in Australia
fresh local water and unique Belhaven yeast. Dark chocolate complexity is built with a
There’s a new entrant to Australia’s gin market, and it’s arrived thanks to
blend of roast barley, roasted black malt and
importer distributor, Jonathan Paige International.
lightly roasted chocolate malt, with simple
Tarsier Gin was created out of the UK by Tim Driver and Sherwin Acebuche,
Challenger hops for a clean and low-level
who developed the brand after being inspired by the flavours they loved
bitterness (which stands apart from the
experiencing while on a backpacking adventure around South East Asia.
bitterness of many other stouts).
On returning back to the UK, the pair said they thought these flavours weren’t being used to their full potential in the drinks market. “We ate our way across south east Asia, and were exposed to some of the
The resulting beer is a deliciously deep, smooth and full bodied stout, bursting with roast coffee and chocolate flavours with a
most amazing ingredients… what they did with flavour just blew our minds. We
rich dark finish. At 4.2 per cent ABV and in
thought - there are some really incredible flavours here, why is nobody putting
a 440ml can with widget, Belhaven Black
them in gin?” Driver said.
Scottish Stout draws on 300 years of brewing
“And so we had the idea that if nobody else was going to do it, why don’t we give it a go.” Acebuche was born in the Phillipines and also has a history in the drinks industry, so he already had some insight into how to do this. Everything about Tarsier has been created from scratch by he and Driver. The range that has entered Australia now includes the flagship Southeast Asian Dry Gin, which Driver described as the “expression of our whole backpacking trip.” It features signature botanicals such as calamansi citrus from the Philippines, galangal from Vietnam, Thai sweet basil and two types of Cambodian kampot peppercorns. Complementing this is the Oriental Pink Gin, which Acebuche described as a “classy take” on a pink gin. Signature botanicals for this gin include raspberry, lychee, red dragon fruit (as opposed to its less flavourful white counterpart), galangal and calamansi. During COVID lockdowns, Tarsier also branched out further with its Backpacker Series, which features the Khao San Gin and Taipei Old Tom Gin, both with unique botanicals embodying their name sakes in Thailand and Taiwan. With a striking bottle featuring the rare and adorable Tarsier primates found in parts of south east Asia, Tarsier Gin is eye-catching and well positioned to have customers follow through to purchase once they pick up the bottle and find out more. 20 | National Liquor News
heritage for a winter beer that pairs great with beef stews and casseroles.
Marketplace
Old Speckled Hen continues to deliver for shoppers More than 40 years since Old Speckled Hen was first brewed, it is continuing to deliver on shopper needs, with some of the highest consumer awareness and consideration of any premium British ale brand. Old Speckled Hen was originally brewed MG car factory in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, in
New Master’s Keep One celebrates two bourbon legends
England. It was named after the old run-
Wild Turkey has launched Master’s Keep One, the seventh limited-
around car for the factory, that was often
edition release in the award-winning series. The whiskey celebrates
parked outside the paint shop. It became
the distinct bourbon philosophies of Jimmy and Eddie Russell, the
spattered in paint and so was known as the
father and son Wild Turkey Distillers who share a combined 107 years
“Owld Speckl’d Un”.
of experience at the distillery.
to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the
Today, Old Speckled Hen is the number
Master’s Keep One combines Jimmy’s love of mid-aged bourbons,
one selling traditional premium canned ale in
those aged eight to 10 years, with Eddie’s passion for complex
the UK, 59 per cent bigger than the second
characteristics that come with bourbons aged longer.
highest selling brand. It’s proudly brought to Australia by distributor Empire Liquor, a local home for iconic British brews. Driving the Australian success of Old
Eddie said: “Wild Turkey’s heritage was built on family values, a love for whiskey-making, and an endless search for bold flavours. “Master’s Keep One honours the tools, techniques and tradition that my father handed down, and is a culmination of our shared love
Speckled Hen is the unique toffee malt flavour,
of bourbon. Jimmy instilled in me the most rewarding lessons for
contributing to a distinctively rich flavour
success in work and life – passion and discipline – and I’ll always be
and fruity aroma in this finely balanced and
grateful to him for setting me on this path 40 years ago.”
refreshing English Pale Ale. Old Speckled Hen comes in at five per cent
The Master’s Keep series launched in 2015 with the original Master’s Keep 17 Year Old and recent expressions have included
ABV and 500ml cans, making it the perfect
Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey Cornerstone released in 2019, and
beverage for weekend BBQs, and even pairing
last year’s Master’s Keep Bottled in Bond, with further releases in the
with sticky toffee pudding.
series to come as well.
May 2022 | 21
Alcohol Beverages Australia
Maintaining global best practice The recent review of the ABAC Responsible Alcohol Marketing Code shows Australia’s commitment to leading the world in alcohol harm minimisation, writes ABA CEO, Andrew Wilsmore.
ABA welcomed the opportunity to make a submission
Adjudication Panel ensures that marketing innovations
to the recent ABAC Responsible Alcohol Marketing
are captured by the scheme by setting ‘precedence’ in
Code Review.
its decision-making authority. Guidance notes provide
The ABAC Code provides industry, governments,
surety for alcohol marketers, and the regular testing of
and concerned health bodies the opportunity to work
decisions against community expectations ensures the
cooperatively to ensure our marketing is in line with
Scheme maintains a high level of credibility.
community expectations.
In a global comparison by the World Health
When it comes to drinking trends, Australia has
Organisation, Australia is a world leader in applying
witnessed a long-term trend towards responsible
co-regulation to all advertising, in stark contrast to
consumption with moderation the new norm. A
23 per cent of countries that have no regulation or
number of factors have contributed to this success,
advertising standards for alcohol marketing.
and some credit should rest with the ABAC Scheme
Australia is also one of the most thorough jurisdictions
and its ongoing commitment to maintaining the
in the application of its marketing regulation, through
world’s best practice in the demonstration of meeting
both a combination of pre-vetting and receiving
community expectations and with responding to
complaints and making determinations. The effect of
evolutions in marketing practices.
this is a scheme that has an inbuilt bias towards continual
The strong quasi-regulatory scheme places
improvement and international best practice.
Australia as a world leader in how it regulates alcohol
Australians would view it as our duty to fight the
marketing and reduces the potential for alcohol
harmful use of alcohol – as an industry, as producers,
related harms to develop.
as retailers, and as individuals – to help improve the
ABAC is the centrepiece of alcohol marketing regulation in Australia, and its role in ensuring the
health of Australians and reduce the risk of alcoholrelated harms and non-communicable diseases.
marketing of alcohol beverages occurs responsibly
We have an obligation to promote responsible
and consistently with standards of good practice via
drinking, and a duty to deliver a better and more
co-regulation, education and advice.
sustainable future for all.
It is also continually evolving and keeping pace with
The ABAC Responsible Alcohol Marketing Code
advances in marketing practices. For example, ABAC
is rightly recognised as global best practice, and we
was a global pioneer in ensuring social marketing,
appreciate the leadership of the ABAC Management
influencers, and other new marketing techniques were
Committee to undertake regular reviews that will
captured by the scheme.
lead to further improvements in meeting community
The expertise and powers invested in the ABAC 22 | National Liquor News
expectations for responsible marketing.
■
“The strong quasiregulatory scheme places Australia as a world leader in how it regulates alcohol marketing and reduces the potential for alcohol related harms to develop.” Andrew Wilsmore CEO Alcohol Beverages Australia
Retail Drinks Australia
BOCSAR research doesn’t paint full picture of alcohol availability and harm The recent report misses the complexity of the issues it addresses, writes Michael Waters, CEO of Retail Drinks Australia.
“Retail Drinks continues to support a targeted, evidencebased approach to policy making based on robust research and delivered in partnership with all stakeholders.” Michael Waters CEO Retail Drinks Australia
In late March, the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics
have declined by over 45 per cent – 22 per cent for
and Research (BOCSAR), released research
alcohol-related domestic violence and 60 per cent for
suggesting that a one hour extension of bottle shop
alcohol-related non-domestic violence. In contrast,
opening hours from 10pm to 11pm was associated
non-alcohol related incidents have continued to
with an additional 1,120 domestic violence assaults.
increase steadily over the same period. When
The research examined the period from December
considering incidents attributed to the misuse and
2016, when this state-wide extension came into effect,
abuse of alcohol, in December 2016, alcohol-related
until February 2020, concluding that this correlated
incidents represented 32 per cent of all assaults across
with a “small but statistically significant” increase in
NSW, and by December 2020 this proportion had
domestic violence assaults.
decreased to 27 per cent. However, the proportion of
Domestic violence is an incredibly complex issue and Retail Drinks, as well as the broader retail liquor
non-alcohol related incidents increased from 68 to 73 per cent over the same period.
industry, share community concern over the human
It should also be noted that the geographic locations
tragedy that comes from senseless violence that is
of the various domestic violence assaults were not
sometimes alcohol-related. Our members’ staff are
considered as part of the BOCSAR research and
often at the coal face of dealing with challenging
that leads to difficulties in interpreting the results.
circumstances that come with the responsibilities of
Importantly, the study does not provide a breakdown
selling alcohol beverages.
of where the additional 1,120 domestic violence assaults
Whilst the authors of the research attempt to
occurred and in which local government areas (LGAs).
draw a link between bottle shop opening hours and
Further to this, not all bottle shops across the state
domestic violence assaults, the other complex factors
traded until 11pm following the extension and the lack
leading to assaults should also be considered when
of data from retailers is acknowledged by the authors.
interpreting the research results. Notably, the study
Retail Drinks continues to support a targeted,
did not distinguish between assaults which were
evidence-based approach to policy making based on
alcohol-related and those which were not. Further
robust research and delivered in partnership with all
analysis of BOCSAR data shows that the majority
stakeholders. As part of this approach, Retail Drinks is
of assaults occurring between December 2016 and
committed to the implementation of specific measures
December 2020 (whether or not they involved
that can have a real effect on harm minimisation,
domestic violence) were non-alcohol related. Also,
without negatively impacting the vast majority of
while the number of alcohol-related incidents
individuals who enjoy alcohol beverages responsibly.
decreased by 13 per cent over this period, non-alcohol
We look forward to working collaboratively with
related incidents increased by nine per cent.
governments throughout the country on specific
These statistics are consistent with the longitudinal
and targeted measures in those individual LGAs that
trend which shows that in the 11 years since
are consistently tracking above the state average to
December 2009, all alcohol related incidents in NSW
address alcohol-related violence.
■
May 2022 | 23
Susan Templeman, Liam Holt, Tahlia Palminha, Caitlin Daley and Simon Strahan
DrinkWise
DrinkWise launches new take on Never Have I Ever concept Simon Strahan, CEO of DrinkWise, discusses the new campaign’s initial launch in the Macquarie electorate.
DrinkWise recently launched the Never Have I Ever
and a proportion were turning to alcohol or drugs
campaign in the Macquarie electorate to help support
during tough times.
young people when it comes to alcohol moderation,
The Macquarie electorate youth advisory
their mental health and coping strategies.
committee wanted a campaign that could connect
The new initiative is a non-drinking take on the popular ‘never have I ever’ concept, to prompt young people to think about their mental health and to remind them that alcohol is not the answer to coping with those challenges. It reinforces that asking for help is ok and that support services are there to provide help and advice if needed. DrinkWise created the campaign following a request for assistance from Federal Member for
with young adults in places they socialise – hotels.
“Getting young adults to openup about their challenges is vital.” Simon Strahan CEO DrinkWise
DrinkWise connected with the Australian Hotels Association NSW to implement the initiative via posters and coasters in 28 pubs throughout the Macquarie electorate (in regional New South Wales). The messaging will also be pushed via social media to reach young adults within the region. Never Have I Ever helps to ensure that as people come back together at licensed venues to socialise,
Macquarie, Susan Templeman MP, and the Australian
have a meal and catch up with friends and family,
Hotels Association. Feedback from Susan’s Macquarie
they also use these opportunities to talk about local
youth advisory committee indicated that feelings of
issues and support each other. Getting young adults
stress and anxiety might be heightened for local young
to open-up about their challenges is vital. They need
adults in the community, particularly given that over
to know that professional support is available from
the last few years they have endured bushfires, floods,
ReachOut and other mental health services.
COVID-19 and recently, floods again.
DrinkWise will continue to work with the
This concern was echoed in research conducted
Australian Hotels Association and ReachOut to
by ReachOut which found a substantial increase
evaluate the campaign in the Macquarie electorate
in the number of young people feeling more
and look to roll out in other areas where young adults
negatively about the future, compared to before
might need some support. If you’d like to get involved,
COVID (44 per cent vs 20 per cent pre-COVID)
please get in contact with us.
24 | National Liquor News
■
Strikeforce
Filling in the gaps Stephen Wilson, Category and Insights Manager at Strikeforce, asks some key questions when it comes to the current supply chain issues.
Stephen Wilson Category & Insights Manager Strikeforce
Regardless of where you might have been
desire for new products and experiences.
seeking your favourite brand in liquor, recently
Who would have thought a decade ago
you might have been challenged to find what
that the humble gin bottle would be at the
Does your current offering reflect macro trends driving shopper purchase?
you were looking for, with supply chain issues
forefront of an experiential wave?
As an example, the trend of no and low
continuing to influence on-shelf availability.
Hard seltzers were not even on the radar a
alcohol consumption has become entrenched
We have all experienced the frustration
few years ago. Both these subcategories now
behaviour amongst drinkers. A recent survey
of popping down to the local store to pick
command a share of space that previously
found that most drinkers are not seeking to
up a few things only to come home with
would have been allocated to other products.
abstain from alcohol altogether, but there
less items than we set out for or substituting
are some occasions where they choose not to consume alcohol. So in order to retain a
still meeting your customer needs presents
Have fulfilment issues with reduced product options actually led to a decrease in revenue?
an enormous challenge for retailers, however
Having to make do with the available stock
to no and low alcohol alternatives.
this situation also provides opportunity to
on hand to fill holes on shelves is never ideal,
Drinkers are also seeking no and low
reassess space apportioned to brands across
however increased facings of familiar brands
alcohol alternatives as part of their holistic
categories, cool rooms and shelf locations
or filling slots with alternative brands has a
health and wellbeing regime, driven out
within the store.
potential silver lining. For familiar brands,
of personal lifestyle evaluation during
each item on shelf is front and centre with
COVID lockdowns.
brands due to lack of choice. Juggling insufficient stock weight while
sale, liquor retailers need to apportion at least some of their available space in each category
How long is it since you really had a forensic look at the shape and make up of your overall range?
increased stock weight helping to avoid a lost
In summary we look forward to seeing a
sale. Alternative brands appearing on shelf
reliable and consistent supply chain back up
can also satisfy shoppers who like exploring
and running. In the interim, the opportunity
There is constant change and product
new brands, particularly craft and artisan
exists to experiment with brands and
evolution within individual categories as
products, so an opportunity has been created
range shape to satisfy your customers and
suppliers look to satisfy drinkers’ insatiable
to drive an incremental sale.
maintain a healthy cash flow.
■
May 2022 | 25
Wine Australia
Online with wine E-commerce is becoming increasingly important to the Australian wine sector, writes Angelica Crabb, Senior Analyst at Wine Australia.
E-commerce, the business model that allows
The IWSR estimates the total e-commerce value
customers to purchase goods and services over the
of alcoholic beverages in Australia to be just under
internet, has become incredibly important over the
US$2 billion, of which 70 per cent are wine sales, 20
past couple of years. It was a growing market before
per cent spirits, eight per cent beer and the rest RTDs
the COVID-19 pandemic, but the need to isolate and
and cider. Overall, e-commerce alcohol sales grew by
conduct business remotely accelerated the already
about 50 per cent in 2020. The largest sites driving this
emerging trends.
growth are Dan Murphy’s, BWS, Liquorland, Naked
According to Statista’s ecommerceDB, there are 19
Wines and First Choice Liquor.
million e-commerce consumers who have bought
According to the Wine Channel Purchase
at least one item online in the past 12 months in
Behaviour of Australian Wine Consumers report,
Australia, or about 75 per cent of the population.
commissioned by Wine Australia in 2021, online
Australia has a very similar e-commerce penetration
retailer sales overtook cellar doors in 2020 as the
to Germany (77 per cent) and South Korea (74 per
second most popular channel for purchasing wine
cent), while the United States is slightly higher at 79
(after bottle shops) and many consumers indicated
per cent and the United Kingdom is the highest in the
that this would continue in the future. Following
world at 86 per cent.
closely behind online retailers were purchases from
Australian e-commerce sales of the top 100 online
a winery’s own website.
stores were worth US$14 billion in 2020, representing
Around half of consumers surveyed did not buy
a growth rate of 65 per cent compared to 2018. The
any wine online since 2019. This is despite three
number of e-commerce users is expected to grow by
quarters being confident in using the internet to
seven per cent to 21 million users by 2025. Food and
make purchases, with the majority buying other
personal care (which includes alcoholic beverages)
items online. While there are many that will not
is the largest category, representing more than US$4
change their minds about using this channel to
billion in sales by the top 100 stores in 2020. However,
purchase wine, there are some common issues
this only represents six per cent of the total food and
raised that could be addressed to encourage use of
personal care market in Australia. The category with
the channel. Some of these include concerns about
the highest online saturation is electronics and media,
damages through delivery or not knowing which
with 38 per cent of sales taking place online.
website to buy from.
26 | National Liquor News
■
“Online retailer sales overtook cellar doors in 2020 as the second most popular channel for purchasing wine (after bottle shops) and many consumers indicated that this would continue in the future.” Angelica Crabb Senior Analyst Wine Australia
D E V R E BEST S S D N E I R F H T I W www.aperolspitz.com.au
IRI
Reimagining retail for the roaring twenties
IRI describes the key pandemic behavioural changes and habits that will be developed this year thanks to new-found resilience and renewed values.
After a rollercoaster two years, Australia
at their disposal to shop safely, ascertain
between those who have embraced digital
is reopening to the ‘roaring twenties’
availability and get the best prices, our
and are thriving, and those that have not
with renewed optimism. We only need to
values are also influencing shopping
and are struggling” with a quarter (23.3
delve into history to see how resilience,
behaviours. Two-thirds (66 per cent) of
per cent) investing in digitalisation to
technology and innovation can change
us are more willing to pay higher prices
reduce costs and improve profitability
lives for the better. Coupled with the re-
to support small business and nearly all
and 17.5 per cent wanting to improve
focus of what’s important in our work and
of us (93 per cent) are more likely to buy
customer experience to drive revenue and/
home lives, Australia will likely see many
Australian-made as provenance continues
or increase KPI scores.
pandemic behavioural changes and habits
to fill our shopping baskets.
stay in complement to new-found resilience
Also be aware of the impending demise of third-party digital cookies. Put more
A fine balance between connecting choice with purchase
emphasis on first-party data to learn about
The influence of digital and values
For online shoppers, retailers must consider
tracking apps, it will be harder than ever to
The pandemic-driven digital transformation
larger and more valuable basket sizes and
know where Australians are shopping and
forced us to reassess how and where we live,
offer the ability to save a shopping list.
what they’re interested in. Your data, and
as hybrid working went mainstream. One
While Australians are keen to shop local,
knowing how to effectively use it, will be
million more Australians are now shopping
understanding new in-store behaviours is
more valuable than ever before.
online and two-thirds of those who did so
critical to long-term success. Elevating the
over the three months to September 2021
in-store experience is fundamental.
and renewed values.
your customers. Along with the opt-out of
Perfecting the omni-channel is key
(64 per cent) chose websites of retailers with
But beware of a digital divide. While
More businesses than ever are investing in
physical shops. Meanwhile, more than half of
recent Google research finds Australian
improving and augmenting omni-channel
us are willing to pay for shipping (54 per cent).
retail “to be steadily advancing towards
efforts because Australians expect retailers
While price and value remain very
becoming more digitally resilient”, it
to be present everywhere they are. No matter
important as Australians use every channel
also finds that “the market shows a split
the device, channel, platform, locale and time
28 | National Liquor News
IRI
of day, we command consistent information
sustainability trade-offs in a world where
address major barriers to democratising
and experiences and the ability to seamlessly
convenience and safety rule alongside
sustainability and demonstrating clear value
move between channels. Omni-channel
self-awareness and empowerment. Your
to shoppers.
will thrive if the logistics and supply chain
sustainability messages therefore must be
continue to evolve rapidly to support it.
transparent, clear and concise.
In 2022, Australians want you to be ‘the retailer for me’ Those businesses that roar to the forefront
While the purpose of physical spaces may
Protecting and nurturing the environment for a better society
have shifted, they remain important to
One in four online shoppers purchase a
with suppliers, manufacturers, industry,
the shopper journey, and in many cases,
brand because of its ethics and sustainability
community and the individual shopper.
the end point of buy-online-pickup-
practices – a trend driven by 18-24 year olds.
If you put data and insights at the heart
in-store sales strategies. 2022 will drive
As such, we are increasingly seeing these
of your business, you will hear the roar of
sensorial activation in physical outlets, as
brands outperform.
Australians as they navigate a bold new
But remember, bricks-and-mortar remains key to omni-channel success.
Australians are increasingly nuanced in shopping habits.
While packaging was much of the focus,
are those that lean into collaboration –
world and recalibrate their ways of living.
shoppers now expect brands to do more
Constructive disruption must be
about ethical and sustainable sourcing
conducted in harmony and unity. Retailers
Lean towards green
of ingredients. Almost three-quarters
and suppliers must come together to drive the
From reuse to single use and back again,
appreciate it when brands make it clear
industry to new levels by creating experiences
sustainability is returning to lead Aussie
what they stand for and stay true to their
that excite and engage Australians.
shopper brand preference as we leave
value and seven in 10 (69 per cent) agree
As Kirk Perry, President and CEO at IRI
pandemic anxiety behind. Three-quarters
that living in more ‘green’ ways can improve
says: “This next year is going to be about
(72 per cent) are willing to pay a price
their health.
having the best intelligence to understand
premium for brands with sustainability
Australian businesses must also be
the changes that are really here to stay and
practices and we expect brands to be
proactive with sustainability innovations.
those changes that were just because of the
transparent and do more about ethical and
It has profound environmental, social
pandemic. Those that get ahead will be the
sustainable sourcing.
and economic implications and beneficial
ones that use that data most effectively.”
■
As we learn to live with COVID,
outcomes for reputation, investor buying
Australians will support brands with a
and value creation. Higher acceptance and
To learn more about leading and winning in
sustainability mindset, but they are also
concern can drive deeper engagement.
the retail of the roaring twenties, download
grappling with new ethical decisions around
Retailers and manufacturers must
the complete report at IRIworldwide.com.
May 2022 | 29
Retailing Aperitivo
Ancient tradition meets modernity Seamus May explores how retailers can harness the timeless stories and techniques of aperitifs to connect with drinkers.
Three top tips for winter
Aperitifs and amari have always possessed
“Aperitivo is deeply ingrained in Italian social
a sense of old world mystique, and
culture – an excuse to meet friends before a meal,
1. Offer bundles to make
recent trends have breathed new life into
as well as a time to wind down in the evening
the occasion more
the category.
with a refreshing drink after a day at work.
straightforward
An emphasis on authenticity and the renewed
“This shared experience that remains the
popularity of classic cocktails means that the
spirit of aperitivo occasions is what should
offering special discounts or
secret recipes and storied histories of aperitifs
be continually shared and celebrated among
offers on bundles of winter
have added commercial value for retailers.
consumers around the world.”
aperitivo cocktail ingredients.
Similarly, Mungo Gilchrist, CEO of Spirits
Aperitivo: an opportunity ‘opens’
Platform (which imports brands like Villa
Traditionally, many of the brands in the
Massa, Select Spritz, Disaronno and Amaro
aperitif category have been enjoyed during the
Montenegro), believes that “Australians are great
aperitivo occasion, which takes its name from
world travellers and, having experienced the
the Latin word ‘aperire’, meaning ‘to open’, as
aperitivo on their European vacations, it’s natural
these drinks were said to open the appetite and
to want to replicate their aperitivo experience
prepare the body for a meal.
back home.”
Maja Cunningham, Marketing Assistant
Gilchrist also said Google Trends data
at Beam Suntory (distributor of Galliano),
indicates an increasing interest in the aperitivo
outlined how aperitifs, and particularly the
occasion over the last five years.
aperitivo pre-dinner occasion, are resonating more than ever with drinkers.
Within the aperitif category, Campari is undoubtedly one of the most well known,
Multiple brands recommended
Pairing with vermouth or Prosecco is an easy option. 2. Use the resources available As Gilchrist said: “Liquor retailers can tap into their supplier’s resources, such as their brand ambassadors who offer tailored training. Their websites are full of cocktail recipe ideas and specific product information.” 3. Menus, recipes and displays Several brands recommended
“Aperitivo culture has become more widely
producing both its eponymous bitter liqueur, as
appreciated – now a prevalent drinking
well as Aperol, among the most popular liquor
menus and point-of-sale displays.
occasion among both traditional and western
brands of the 21st century. For Marketing
It’s a well-worn tactic, but one
culture across the globe,” Cunningham said.
Director, Paolo Marinoni, it’s the focus on
that continues to get results.
30 | National Liquor News
providing how-to guides, cocktail
Retailing Aperitivo
drinks specific to this category that makes
can perhaps give aperitifs a cutting edge
the aperitivo occasion so special.
when it comes to connecting with drinkers.
Aperol Sunny, lively and social,
“Consumers are wanting to try
Galliano is one of the category’s historic
something different to wine to pair with
brands – originating as a medicinal tonic
drink to bring a touch
meals,” Marinoni says.
Aperol Spritz is the perfect
developed in the late 19th century. The
of Italian style to any
“Refreshing alternatives like Aperol Spritz
brand now boasts a range of aperitif
occasion. Aperol Spritz
or Campari and soda are a popular choice
options, including a vanilla-flavoured
is best enjoyed during
to pair with a meal. They are also popular as
expression, expanding the opportunity of
aperitivo, Italy’s iconic
they are often lower in ABV and have healthier
the aperitivo occasion.
perceptions than other choices.”
“The Galliano selection celebrates a
And as Marinoni reminds us, for some
range of occasions, whether it’s Galliano
people, aperitivo has always been an
L’Aperitivo stirred gently with a selection
important occasion.
of light fruits, citrus and bubble, or Galliano
“The aperitivo ritual has been celebrated
Ristretto for an indulgent, rich Espresso
in Italy and across Europe for well over 100
Martini – there’s a place for Galliano in
years – it is culturally embedded in society
every occasion,” Cunningham explains.
and daily or weekly routines.”
Jonathan Howells, Group Marketing
take on happy hour. Enjoy your own aperitivo moment by sharing an Aperol Spritz with friends and food that complements Aperol’s bittersweet notes. Drinkers can scan the QR code on the back of the bottle and explore
Manage for Amber Beverage Australia
an interactive augmented
Liquid history
(which distributes Fernet-Branca) echoes
reality experience showcasing how to
Indeed, the tradition that Marinoni describes
the sentiments of Cunningham and
create the perfect Aperol Spritz.
Marinoni and believes the spread of aperitivo culture is joined by a deepening understanding of drinks suitable for the occasion. “Internationally we are seeing both a growth in understanding of aperitivo as an occasion and greater consumer understanding of the diversity of drinks that fit into the aperitivo category,” Howells commented. “Specifically with reference to Fernet-Branca, we are seeing more consumers who enter the category through more bittersweet expressions looking to move further into the world of amari and appreciate the idiosyncrasy of styles such as Fernet.” Fernet-Branca remains family-owned and is one of the oldest brands in the category, having first been produced in Milan in 1845. As Howells explains, effective communication of these stories is a priority. “We as brand owners obviously need to make sure our stories are well-understood, and primarily that is our responsibility,” he said.
Capturing current trends For Howells, there’s a clear link between historic aperitif brands, and the drinks trends of 2022. “Premiumisation and mindful drinking are also trends that grew strongly over the past few years, with people tending to drink less quantity but of a better drink,” he said. Gilchrist concurs, saying: “As consumers explore lower alcohol options, aperitif-style drinks are gaining popularity, especially among millennials.” May 2022 | 31
Retailing Aperitivo
Amaro Montenegro Created in 1885, Amaro Montenegro is a blend of 40 hand selected
The desire for authenticity and high quality among younger drinkers leaves the aperitif category auspiciously positioned to attract a new market of consumers. “We want retailers to be able to articulate how this historic, unique drink fits into the day to day life of their consumers, as this advocacy is ultimately what will drive more people to try amari,” Howells said. Yet this weight of tradition does not mean there is no room for innovation. At the other end of the spectrum is Hotel Starlino, a recent addition to the aperitif category, which is imported by Stuart Alexander & Co. As Liquor Marketing Manager, Gemma Eastwood, says, Hotel Starlino is hoping to capture the attention of drinkers with a lighter style, and natural fruit distillates designed for the modern palate. “Starlino takes cues from the golden age of aperitivos with its ‘art nouveau’
botanicals and the recipe remains unchanged, unmistakable, with its unique flavour developing a prestigious reputation around the world. There are six distinct and unmistakable aromatic notes of Amaro Montenegro – bitter and herbaceous; spicy and floral; sweet and roasted; fresh and balsamic; fruity and vegetal; warm and tropical. The final and fundamental element of this unique amaro is called the
inspired bottles and labels, then gives the range a modern twist with the use of
‘premio.’ Created by the Master
on-trend fruit flavours,” she said.
Herbalist, the premio, meaning ‘prize’ in Italian, is a micro-
A drink for all seasons
distillate that creates the unrivalled, delicate,
Spritz-style drinks, which hero aperitifs, remain enormously popular during the
complexity of Amaro Montenegro.
Australian summer and are widely understood by drinkers. However, as Eastwood explained, there is work to be done by both producers and retailers to communicate the potential of aperitifs in the cooler months. “Consumers understand the spritz concept very well, but are less aware of the versatility of aperitifs in winter,” she said. Retailers can help drinkers understand how to drink their favourite aperitif in winter, through the use of simple recipe cards or product bundles. “That’s the beauty of the aperitivo – it doesn’t have to be over-complicated,” Eastwood adds. “A simple serve of vermouth with tonic of your choice or Prosecco and soda plus a twist of citrus is enough to satisfy.” This combination of adaptability and simplicity is also touched upon by Joe Molinari of Combined Wines, distributors of brands like Capo Amaro, Strega and Santa Maria al Monte. “Although aperitifs are being used more and more as cocktail ingredients, in winter, they are meant be drunk straight,” Molinari says. 32 | National Liquor News
Italys most popular digestive
Vecchio Amaro del Capo Vecchio Amaro del Capo is a herb-based liqueur, fruit of an ancient recipe from the Caffo family. Amaro del Capo is made using more than 29 beneficial and medicinal herbs, flowers, fruits and roots from the rich land of Calabria. Enjoy Vecchio Amaro del Capo ice cold (suggested serving temperature -20) to enhance flavours and scents of the herbs in the liqueur, or in long drinks and cocktails. Due to the high quality of the raw materials and the expertise of the Master Distillers, Caffo family products have received many awards and
“The sector is growing more and more every year because of its versatility.” Surveying the category at large, Sophie Smallwood, Events Manager for Beam Suntory, said: “Competition is hot for the conventional liquids linked to the aperitif category.” Nevertheless, with the revival of classic cocktails an ongoing trend in the drinks
recognitions over the years at prestigious international competitions. Amaro del Capo has been awarded with a Platinum Medal at the SIP Awards 2017, and a Gold Medal at Concuour Mondial de Bruxelles in
industry, aperitifs are well-placed to take advantage as more and more traditional cocktails
2010 and 2014, Internationaler Spititousen
come back into the limelight.
Wettdewerb 2014 and 2016, Selections
As Cunningham says: “Cocktails are evolving year on year, as are the interests,
Mondiales des Spiriteux Canada 2011, and Wine Enthusiast 94.
preferences and tastes of consumers.” Howells also believes that “the unique nature of products such as Fernet-Branca provide bartenders with an instant means of adding complexity to the profile of other classic cocktails.” He points to the Milano-Torino (or ‘Mi-To’), one of the oldest aperitif cocktails, as a possible winter option for drinkers. This cocktail combines Milanese liqueurs (such as Campari or Fernet-Branca) with Italian vermouth from Turin. Somewhat Negroniadjacent, this is a winter-warmer that is perfect for introducing the aperitivo occasion as the temperatures dip. Cunningham outlined a possible avenue for aperitif brands and retailers in the winter months, playing into the after-dinner, or ‘digestivo’ occasion. One suggestion for this occasion using Galliano is the ‘Hot Shot’, a drink created
Select Aperitivo Select Aperitivo was created in 1920 in the Castello district of Venice and soon became a favourite, establishing Select Aperitivo as the star of the Venetian cocktail scene. Its made by blending 30 botanicals, including juniper berries and rhubarb roots that contribute to creating a sophisticated and
to warm up winter nights in the frosty regions of Sweden, and an alternative to one of
approachable bittersweet flavour.
Australia’s preferred ‘digestif ’ cocktails, the Espresso Martini.
Rhubarb roots are macerated
Cunningham said: “The Hot Shot involves gentle layering of 15ml Galliano Vanilla,
artisanal mastery to give the product its
15ml hot espresso and 15ml cream.” Ultimately though, aperitifs will always be intrinsically linked to the tradition from which they were born, the ‘original happy hour’ of the aperitivo occasion. Indeed, Howells believes that the eventual success of the category in the winter months depends upon the success of selling the occasion of aperitivo to drinkers. “The best strategy would be to educate consumers and remind them of what aperitivo stands for: preparing for a big meal, with great company around them,” Howells said. “Isn’t that exactly what we do in winter time?” 34 | National Liquor News
individually and carefully processed with
■
intense bitter note. Juniper berries are macerated and extracted so their fresh, resinous notes add a strong structure and balance to the bitter, making it perfect for mixing. Select Aperitivo is characterised by a sophisticated aromatic profile and well-balanced bittersweet taste.
www.selectaperitivo.it www.spiritsplatform.com.au
https://www.facebook.com/spiritsplatform
https://www.instagram.com/spirits_platform/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/spirits-platform
Imported and International Beer
A window to the world Provenance, authenticity and diversity prove to be determining factors for the imported and international beer category, as Seamus May explores.
After two years of travel disruption, borders have
Quirini, Owner and Managing Director of
reopened and Australians are slowly beginning to
international beer specialist distributor, Empire
return to the piazzas of Europe, the dive-bars of
Liquor, has highlighted.
America and the beach clubs of Asia.
“Imported beers are still as important as ever,
It is within these venues that overseas travellers
especially as Australians are longing to relive their last
have forged the memories that keep them returning
overseas visit and good times in a beer hall, ancient
to imported and international beers, long after they
English pub or Belgian town square,” Quirini says.
have touched down in Australia. During the pandemic years, and with continuing reticence among would-be travellers, imported beers
His sentiments are echoed by Richard Kelsey, Cofounder and Director of leading e-commerce beer retailer, Beer Cartel.
have had a crucial role to play. For many drinkers,
“We’re seeing the growth among traditional Belgian
these beers have represented a form of ‘safe escapism’
and German breweries. These are largely based around
for Aussies eager to connect with memories their
brands and styles people have previously experienced
previous voyages.
in Australia or overseas that they’re seeking out again,” he said.
Imported beer, important beer This shared experience is something that Brenton 36 | National Liquor News
“COVID and the inability to travel overseas may have had some impact on increased demand for these
“Imported beers are still as important as ever, especially as Australians are longing to relive their last overseas visit. Brenton Quirini Owner and Managing Director Empire Liquor
Imported and International Beer
beers, providing a window to places people
“We previously had a big focus on
expanded company at the top of the US
hop-forward beers from the USA, [but] as
craft beer market in sales volume and
In terms of beer marketing, this tactic is
we’ve seen the quality of comparable beers
growth, with an extraordinary line up of
nothing new. Corona’s famous ‘From Where
produced in Australia increase, we’ve seen a
brands including Voodoo Ranger, along
You’d Rather Be’ campaign lives long in the
huge slowing down in this space,” Kelsey says.
with Fat Tire, Two Hearted Ale, and
memory, and continues to be referenced by
One brand hoping to buck this trend is
the brand’s importer, Carlton and United
Voodoo Ranger IPA, produced by American
“Given how difficult international travel
Breweries (CUB).
brewery New Belgium Brewing, and
has been in recent times, trying beers
couldn’t travel to.”
Oberon Ale.”
Kym Bonollo, Head of International
imported to Australia by Lion. New Belgium
from some of America’s most famous craft
Brands for CUB, believes the company’s
itself began after its founders took a bicycle
breweries is a fantastic way to stay in touch
broad range of international beers leaves it
tour of Belgian breweries.
with beer trends around the world.”
well-placed to capitalise on the desire for escapism among drinkers. “Our international portfolio allows consumers the opportunity to experience
Lion’s Brand Ambassador for Voodoo Ranger, Johnny Day, believes that the beer’s
A taste of tradition
strong performance in the United States will
Nevertheless, there are certain traditional
translate to sales in Australia.
overseas beer varieties and brands that
a taste of escapism, whether it be Japanese
“Voodoo’s focus on big flavourful IPAs
continue to resonate strongly with Australian
discovery through Asahi Super Dry, the
has seen great success in the US, placing it
drinkers. In some cases, similar products
Italian lifestyle through Peroni or the beaches
as the number one IPA,” says Day.
made in Australia prove less popular than
of Mexico with Corona,” Bonnollo said.
So far, Day has been proven correct,
their overseas counterparts.
Yet there’s more to this phenomenon
with the 6.8 per cent ABV Voodoo Ranger
“When the traditional European styles
than pure emotion – Quirini and Kelsey’s
clearing the 200,000 litre mark for Australian
are produced locally, even when they are
observations are borne out in the statistics.
sales earlier in the year.
well made, the demand is significantly
According to analysis shared with
Lion Little World Beverages (Lion’s global
National Liquor News by CUB, imported
craft arm) acquired New Belgium Brewing in
beer continues to account for one in every
2019, and followed this purchase by picking
six dollars spent on all beer in Australia,
up Bell’s Brewery, based in Michigan.
contributing some $1.1 billion in retail sales per annum.
lower,” Kelsey says. Bonollo believes this is down to the narratives that certain brands possess. “We think that the defining point of
According to Day, “the combination
difference for international beers are the
of Bell’s and New Belgium places the
stories around those brands, their overseas
And Cam Pearce, Director of Marketing and Innovation for Coopers, which imports brands like Carlsberg, Sapporo and Yebisu, says the closure of travel helped produce strong growth for these brands. “During 2020 and 2021, at a time when international travel was halted, Sapporo experienced double-digit sales growth, and rose to become one of the fastest growing premium international beer brands in Australia,” Pearce said.
The craft beer challenge There’s no doubt that the recent explosion in craft beer means that there are more home-grown products for Aussie consumers to enjoy than ever before, and this has had an impact on the popularity of certain imported beers. May 2022 | 37
Imported and International Beer
Beyond the imported beer fridge Brands recommend innovative tactics to capitalise on the unique opportunities of imported beer. Celebrate national days “Not hiding from the culture the international beer category brings to different markets is a great way to attract more attention to international beer products. Celebrating a national day, sporting event or putting cultural nuances forward as part of the in-store
provenance, commitment to quality and history
Lager remains king
adds a degree of romance and appeal that builds
It is an inescapable truth that the imported beer
in premium value,” Bonnollo said.
category remains dominated by ‘bigger brand’
point of difference.” - Johnny Day, Lion.
“These stories give the shopper/consumer a
lagers, from the likes of Corona, Peroni and Asahi,
taste of distant and diverse cultures, a sense of
all of which are distributed in Australia by CUB.
discovery that you would get from travelling
CUB’s Category Manager, Rebekah Healy,
to those destinations and experiencing it
was on-hand to explain the leading trends in the
all firsthand.”
imported beer category.
For Quirini, “the unique qualities of many
“Lager remains the most popular style across
imports, including trappist, wheat, pils, stouts
both Australian and international beers,” said Healy.
and ales are not easy to replicate.”
“There’s also a trend towards the larger format
communication is a great way to create a
Treat it like a wine list “Retailers should treat this category like a restaurant considers a wine list – interest, balance, value and consumer satisfaction. Having a ‘Category
This difficulty in replication is not just down
(500ml) cans, which are driving significant
Champion’ who knows
to the particular ambience of the pub in which
growth for the segment, up 15 per cent on the
imported beer, styles and
drinkers first sampled the beer, as Quirini
previous year (adding $11.6m) and have gained
how they differ from local
explained. It’s a result of “many factors including
share from six per cent to eight per cent of all
products can contribute a
but not limited to, yeast strains, raw ingredients,
international beer value.
great deal.” - Brenton Quirini,
equipment and in many cases generations of history and experience.” In particular, Kelsey points to the increasing popularity of traditional Belgian and German
“However, the stubby is still king here, making up 84 per cent of all international beer value, which is ahead of the beer category average for stubbies at 53 per cent share.”
Empire Liquor. Tap into communities Certain brands have historic connections that retailers
styles including hefeweizens, helles or pale
Coopers is hoping to take advantage of the
lagers, pilsners, dark lagers, strong Belgian ales
trend toward larger cans, introducing a 500ml
example, Carlsberg and
and trappist style tripels.
Sapporo can in late 2021.
soccer fans.
“These traditional styles have had their beer
As Pearce said: “Bigger cans in smaller pack
recipes honed over decades, and in some cases,
sizes offer a strong value proposition for those
centuries,” Kelsey adds.
looking to try new beers or purchase premium
Traditional imported beer is an area where
products for occasions.
retailers can have an edge over the on-premise,
“The single can offering of Sapporo in the
as venues are less likely to have such offerings
iconic 650ml silver steel can is an example
– particularly in bulk keg format.
of this.”
38 | National Liquor News
■
might not be aware of, for
“Carlsberg’s strong association with world football is also attracting consumers and creating opportunities to align the brand with communities.” - Cam Pearce, Coopers.
Australian Spirits
A spirited country Australian spirits are enjoying strong momentum right now, so Brydie Allen investigated what’s behind this trajectory to find areas of opportunity for retail.
It was only a handful of years ago that Australia
Blake Vanderfield-Kramer, Founder of
had just a handful of distilleries to enjoy. Today,
local eau de vie brand Feels Botanical, also
Premiumisation and an appreciation for
there are hundreds, big and small, dotted
sees that growth opportunity, and likens it to
craft are a couple of elements that can also
across our great vast continent, delivering
what other sectors have already experienced.
claim responsibility for this preference shift.
internationally renowned spirits that continue
“I think we will see a boom in Australian
“Consumers are rewarding themselves
manufacturers and brands, as we have seen
with high quality spirits that help elevate
to excite consumers the world over.
but there is definitely more behind it.
And the sector is not finished yet. Despite
within the wine and beer categories,” he said.
their drinking experience, whether they’re
the popularity explosion in recent years,
Brendan Moynihan, Marketing Director
sipping whisky neat or stirring it down
Australian spirits are still accounting for a
at Starward Distillery, also sees this, and
in classic cocktails. Now more than ever,
relatively small proportion of spirits bought
said: “The Australian spirits category is on
consumers are willing to reach into their
and consumed locally. Considering the
an exciting trajectory which continues to go
pockets if it means they are supporting local
incredibly high quality of these products, this
from strength to strength.”
brands, and quality products with engaging
points to a huge opportunity for local retailers. “At the moment, Australian craft spirits
stories to tell,” said Moynihan.
Spirited growth
“It is important that Australian distilleries
amount to less than one per cent of the spirits
“For me, Australian drinkers are driving the
continue to produce approachable high-
consumed in Australia, in comparison to
growth of Australian spirits. Aussie drinkers
quality products to recruit a new consumer.”
international markets, we’re informed this
are choosing local in every category where it
When Syme was asked what is setting
is usually 10 per cent. So, there is massive
is available,” said Sebastian Reaburn, Master
Aussie spirits apart from international
opportunity to grow the segment, and
Distiller for Top Shelf Group, maker of
products right now, he also said quality
for consumers to support local product,”
Grainshaker Vodka and NED Whisky.
was key.
said Cameron Syme, Master Distiller and
Reaburn is certainly right there, as local
“I was judging the World Gin Awards
Founder of Limeburners, Giniversity, Tiger
consumers continue to place an every-
recently, and a fellow judge who is a gin
Snake and Dugite in WA, and a recent
growing emphasis on products that are
distiller from the UK said that Australia is
inaugural inductee into the Australian
closer to home. The pandemic is one thing
making the best gins in the world and is the
Distillers Hall of Fame.
that is often credited with this movement,
country to try to match,” he said.
40 | National Liquor News
Australian Spirits
The quality of the liquid itself is just part of it though – consumers are also looking to connect with other premium cues of the wider brands too. An example from Reaburn is about transparency and authenticity. “People want to connect with producers, they want to know who, where and from what their spirits are made,” he said. Vanderfield-Kramer noted this was especially prevalent in younger adult consumers, an important thing to note. “Half the Australian drinking population will be Gen Z or younger Millennials by 2026 and they are craving variety and choice,” he said. Australian spirits certainly deliver on the need for premium variety, tapping into drinkers’ desire to experiment. Jon Lioulios, Director of South Australia’s 36 Short Distillery, said: “Supporting local plays such an important role within Australia and we’re finding that customers really enjoy experimenting and finding new ways to drink premium Australian spirits with their friends and family.” Vanessa Wilton, Co-founder and Marketing Manager at Sydney’s Manly Spirits Co., believes it’s easy for drinkers to do this right now, and said: “Consumers are spoiled for choice in quality Australian spirits across multiple categories. “With an increase in curiosity and an excitement to find and share the next big thing, we are seeing big boosts in flavoured gins/spirits.”
Make the most of Aussie spirits Here are four top retail tips collated from producers in this story: 1. Create an ‘Australian spirits zone’ as an in-store destination to hero local distillers. Keep control of this space without the use of plannograms, and cycle stock seasonally to showcase more products. 2. Contact your suppliers to find out their stories so you can communicate them to customers. This will help drinkers connect more with local brands. 3. Do your research – know who you’re supporting and their standards. If they are a member of the Australian Distillers Association, they will follow an industry code of conduct and comply with relevant laws. 4. Upsell customers from other options, including in the nonalcoholic space. Show them what variety exists and what is possible with Australian spirits of all kinds.
May 2022 | 41
Australian Spirits
A new taste of local, without the alcohol Australian made and owned brand, Naked Life, has built on the raving success of its non-alcoholic cocktail cans with the expansion into the bottled non-alcoholic spirits sector. The new Naked Life Non-Alcoholic Spirits range is crafted with distilled
The innovation nation
Pillars’ new Yuzu Gin, Manly Spirits’ Lilly
One of the great Australian spirit success
Pilly Pink Gin or a number of local Shiraz
of 700ml bottles will include non-alcoholic
stories is Four Pillars from Victoria, which
or rosé wine gin combinations, for example.
spirits such as London Dry, Italian
has just opened its brand new distillery
Gregor said: “The Aussie distilling scene
Aperitivo, Veneto Spritz, Tennessee Malt,
in its home of Healesville after a $7m
is red hot right now; there are more than
Scottish Malt, Caribbean Blanco and
investment. According to Co-founder Stu
200 distilleries making gin and so many of
Caribbean Spiced, all perfect for crafting
Gregor, one of the things that sets both
them are absolutely world class.
non-alcoholic versions of the cocktails we
Four Pillars and the wider local spirits
know and love.
scene apart right now is innovation.
botanicals with no artificial flavours or colours, and is low in calories. The range
Naked Life is aiming for this new range to further expand its breadth of offer and build on the incredible success of the RTD range, which sold 2.5 million cans over its first seven months, and is a leader in the space overall, with a market share of 60 per cent in the non-alcoholic RTD cocktail sector in grocery.
botanicals like lemon myrtle, finger limes,
“We’re known as a country of
Davidson plums, Tasmanian mountain
innovation, a country of produce,” he said.
pepper... the list just goes on and on.
“The thing that sets us apart at Four
Nowhere tastes like Australia! Aussie gins
Pillars I guess is a relentless pursuit of
are growing faster, at almost double the
improvement and innovation. We’re
pace of all other gins in a market where
constantly experimenting with new
gin is growing incredibly quickly.”
flavours and combinations.” As Moynihan said, this is growing the appeal of the sector at many levels.
But there is also now more and more innovation across the board too, both in categories like whisky and rum, which are
“Australian brands are not afraid to push
tipped to grow at the rate that gin has, and also
the boundaries whilst highlighting the best
in emerging categories where producers are
of what we have to offer, creating an appeal
reinventing spirits with an Australian twist.
to both local and international audiences,” he said.
Some examples can be found in NED Whisky’s Sour Mash SKU, alongside Top
Syme said the unique abilities of
Shelf ’s upcoming foray into the agave
Australian spirits to explore in new and
sector; 36 Short’s handcrafted take on the
unusual ways has certainly served the sector
Eastern European spirit of Rakia; non-
well, and fostered this innovative approach.
alcoholic spirits created by non-alcoholic
“There has always been a trend in
distillers like Naked Life and also extending
pushing boundaries, incorporating more
lines from existing alcoholic brands like
unique Australian botanicals, and even
Manly Spirits; and a focus on the eau de
green ants in gin, to using Australian
vie category from Feels Botanical.
hardwoods in barrels. Australia’s laws
At the heart of these boundary-pushing
around spirit definitions give more room
products, and the wider Australian spirits
for manoeuvring and developing great
industry, is flavour experimentation.
spirits with unique tastes,” Syme said.
Lioulios noted: “The liquor industry is
Gin is a category of Australian spirit that
always screaming for more, and we truly
is known to have started a lot of innovation,
love experimenting with different flavour
through the use of native local botanicals and
combinations at our distillery.
other interesting flavour infusions, like Four 42 | National Liquor News
“We have some amazing native
“We’re passionate about quality
Australian Spirits
Introducing NED Sour Mash Australian Whisky A whisky for all occasions, NED is a clean, smooth and powerful whisky – a whisky that uses the best of bourbon and single malt production to create something quintessentially Aussie. Distilled from a mash bill that is predominately corn, with supporting wheat and malted barley, all of the grains are Australian grown and fermented using lautering and sour mash techniques. Matured in American Oak, Melbourne’s dynamic climate provides the perfect stage for NED to develop into a bold, rich finished whisky. The new make spirit showcases caramel, dark chocolate and
ingredients and believe that’s why our spirits
David Andrew, Founder of Naked Life
provide a real point of difference to customers.
Non-Alcoholic Spirits, said: “The non-
Most of our ingredients are sourced from our
alcoholic trend is definitely very visible. IWSR
farm, otherwise we ensure to source it locally.
forecasts that the no and low alcohol volume
We have amazing produce that is grown all
in Australia will grow by +16 per cent 2020
around our distillery and this enables us to
to 2024. This is no different for spirits as we
experiment with different flavour profiles.”
see a continued interest from consumer (60
subtle vanilla, flavours checked in every run with all spirit cuts made by sensory assessment. Those aromas beautifully integrate with mocha and dried fruits when fully mature, the local grains giving a soft and viscous texture. Created for sharing, celebrating and
For Vanderfield-Kramer this is also a point
per cent of the consumers indicate to want to
enjoying whether that be neat
of difference, both with using Australian
drink less) and we see more brands launching
or mixed.
grapes and also interesting botanicals such
in the market.
as hemp (in Feels Botanical BASK) and horny goat weed (in Feels Botanical ROUSE).
“As Naked Life is Australian made and owned, the brand has been able to really
Reaburn added: “Our climate is unique, the
answer to the local consumer need which is
earth our raw materials are grown in is unique
a need for a non-alcoholic drink that looks
and that Australian want to never sit still and
and tastes like an alcoholic drink.”
forever innovate is entrenched in everything we
The future is certainly bright in a number
do. Right now there is a huge local movement;
of ways for local distillers, and its a future
people want local jobs, local farmers, local
they want to protect. Many of the brands
distillers. But it is more than that as well. People
in this story noted sustainability as a huge
want to connect with authentic spirits that are
point of focus for this year and beyond, as
made with care and passion.”
producers seek to up their environmental
The local movement is not only causing
credentials and get behind to ‘green
existing Australian distillers to innovate, but
movement.’ As the industry finds new
also innovating new companies into existence
avenues to thrive in, this will become even
to meet emerging trends, such as that of no
more important, driven both by consumers
and low alcohol.
and the industry itself.
44 | National Liquor News
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#1
Non-alcoholic RTD brand in retail* expands into mixology with a non-alcoholic Spirits range
Following the success of Naked Life's award-winning non-alcoholic cocktails range, selling over 2.5 million cans in the past 7 months, the ready-to-drink market leader is now launching a range of non-alcoholic spirits in 700ml bottles. The range of seven spirits has been expertly crafted to deliver unparalleled authenticity in flavour combinations for a classic cocktail experience. This addition creates your venue’s non-alcoholic portfolio, covering the most popular cocktails through to a ready-to-drink dine-in or take-away range. Available from major wholesalers nationwide. *Data source: Quantium P26W ending 05/04/2022.
Crafted with Distilled Botanicals Non-Alcoholic
Made & Owned in Australia
Low in Calories
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT JUSTIN AT SALES@NAKEDLIFESPIRITS.COM.AU OR 0419931497
Family Wineries
r i a f f a y l i m a f A Andrew Graham analyses the continued success of family-led businesses and their impact on Australia’s wine industry.
46 | National Liquor News
It’s impossible to understate the importance of
economies of scale and global brand recognition,
family companies to Australia’s wine industry.
surely it should be corporations dominating the top
But sure, let’s look at the numbers. According to
20, not the other way around?
the latest Wine Australia estimates, there are 2156
I went to the source for an answer, hitting up a
wineries in the country (and 6000 growers), most of
few members of some of our most important family
which are family businesses. That trend continues all
wineries to work out what it is that really helps them
the way up, from boutique to large producers, with
not just survive, but thrive.
more than half of our top 20 largest wine producers (by revenue) all family-owned and operated.
It’s all about patience
It doesn’t stop there either, with many in that top
The benefits of a long view - that’s the most obvious
20 list (from the Wine Industry Directory 2021) also
answer as to why family wineries are more succesful.
multi-generational businesses - including Tahbilk,
It’s the benefit of looking beyond immediate
Brown Family Wine Group and Yalumba, who each
shareholder returns and instead gazing far into the
boast histories of more than a century.
future to spot a path, even if it means a few lean years.
But have you ever really wondered why? What
As Caroline Brown, from the venerable Brown
is it about family wine businesses that make them
Family Wine Group (Australia’s seventh largest wine
so successful, and for so long? Especially in a world
company in 2021), explains, time works differently
where larger corporations enjoy much greater
in a family winery.
Family Wineries
“We’re not in it for the quick wins. Patience is the
Calabria-Staltare made a similar point by saying:
key to our success (for over 130 years), and from this,
“There’s something about family businesses that bring
the rewards do come,” she said.
the concept of a ‘higher purpose’ to the forefront of
Elizabeth Calabria-Staltare, of Calabria Family
how we operate.
Wines (Australia’s 13th largest wine company in
“Our name is on every bottle of wine that comes
2021) agrees, and said: “The decisions we make in
out of the winery, so it’s very important the wines live
business today have a long-lasting impact on future
up to the high standards we aim to achieve.”
generations to come.
The sentiment doesn’t go unnoticed in the trade
“Our actions today will affect our children and our
either, as Will Figueira from Wine Selectors explained.
grandchildren when and if they decide to step into
“Being family, you can’t be more tied into
the business, so while we need to make decisions that make ‘business sense’, we also need to factor in the long term impacts as well.”
something - it’s blood,” he said. “You can’t run away when things go bad. You are often tied to it for life, so you have to stick, and tough
The other undeniable motivator for any family
it out. This creates many things - pride, pressure,
winery is the sense of responsibility when something
responsibility, accountability… all of it helps family
feels like it is ‘yours’. Mitchell Taylor of Taylors Wines
wineries be enduring success stories.”
(Australia’s 12th largest wine company in 2021) puts it succinctly.
Calabria family
It’s also about culture
“When your family name is on the building, the
It’s easy to explain away some of these family’s success
bottle and the letterhead, it results in an enthusiastic
stories by focusing on a sense of duty. But the most
obsession with quality and a respect of the heritage
successful producers also foster a culture beyond the
that the family has built up over many years,” he said.
names on the door.
Taylors vineyards
“When your family name is on the building, the bottle and the letterhead, it results in an enthusiastic obsession with quality and a respect of the heritage that the family has built up over many years.” Mitchell Taylor Taylors Wines
May 2022 | 47
Family Wineries
Take Yalumba (Australia’s ninth largest wine company in 2021) and the Hill-Smith family for an example. Here, the family places an emphasis on treating employees more like family, with the result a winery with a legendary low staff turnover. Indeed, when the latest member of the family Jess Hill-Smith entered the business in 2019, it was a surreal experience “It felt like coming home. There were so many people around the winery who were there when I was born. They were talking about meeting me first as a baby. I have to say that this is what makes us unique. I wouldn’t be here as the sixth generation in the business unless we didn’t have those incredible people working alongside the family,” she said. While Hill-Smith family members are encouraged to work in the business, there’s also a rule that states they must work elsewhere for at least five years before they can apply for a role within the company - a move widely respected for creating sense of real-
Yalumba Managing Director, Nick Waterman, and Robert Hill-Smith
world grounding.
Spotlight: McWilliam’s Hanwood Estate
The same rule applies at fellow First Family of Wine member, Brown Family Wine Group, with good effect. But it goes deeper than that. One of the benefits of finally entering the business
McWilliam’s Hanwood Estate 10 Year
for these next generation wine producers is that working with your family can be
Old Tawny is fragrant and fresh with oak
fun, as Brown explained.
complexity. Displaying obvious aged wood
“I love working alongside my best mates (sisters and cousins) and the way we
complexing flavours with raisins and toffee
work together and bounce ideas off one another is probably quite unique,” she said.
notes also present, the wine has spent a minimum age of 10 years in small oak casks. These years spent maturing, combined with six generations of fortified winemaking experience, ensures that the wine is consistent in its style and quality every year. Discover the new look packaging in-store soon. Visit mcwilliams.com.au for more details on the Hanwood Estate Premium Fortified range.
“No doubt we drive each other nuts at times but knowing what each other is thinking probably helps too!” For Casella Family Brands (Australia’s third largest winemaker in 2021), the sense of family permeates the business too, with a stated belief that ‘a company built on family values fosters a workforce of dedicated and resilient people.’
Innovation and adaptation is the ultimate answer It’s no coincidence that Australia’s most successful family wineries are also among the most innovative in the country too, with a storied history of bold moves (which don’t always work out) that simply wouldn’t fly in a larger corporation. Casella is a perfect place to start. We all know the legacy of Yellow Tail, which singlehandedly launched bright and cheerful Australian wines into millions of affordable wine glasses around the world. But what’s fascinating is how they’ve carried that brand forward, now featuring new products like Yellow Tail Pure Bright, a ‘lighter in calories and alcohol’ range, and the latest to market, and Yellow Tail Whiskey Barrel, aged in Australian Whiskey barrels. It’s a move straight out of the big brand playbook, and it’s hard to argue against. On the topic of ‘lighter things’, the no and low alcohol category is where many of these family businesses are investing their effort. Brown is especially excited.
48 | National Liquor News
EVERY MASTERPIECE NEEDS A
S I G N AT U R E
The Signature is a masterfully crafted and truly remarkable wine. But it would not be complete without the signature of an individual who has contributed greatly to the life and soul of Yalumba. We proudly dedicate the 2018 vintage to Managing Director, Nick Waterman.
Embrace the Magnificent Unknown
Family Wineries
Brown family
“Have you tried our Prosecco Ultra Low?” she asks. “The no and low alcohol space (this wine has 0.5 per cent ABV) is really growing and we think this wine really is the best tasting in the market. “We’ve retained the very small percentage of alcohol (technically we can call it zero alcohol, however we’ve chosen to be very transparent) to retain the flavour and it’s really paid off. This is a really exciting space for us.” You don’t have to look far to see how family wineries have helped colour the wine landscape too. At De Bortoli (Australia’s sixth largest wine company in 2021), the launch of the Rosé Revolution a decade ago helped to drive our rosé styles in a (welcome) dry, pale and savoury direction. Or for the grandfather of innovation, look at Angove Family Winemakers (Australia’s 14th largest wine company in 2021) who pioneered the wine cask in 1965.
“We’re not in it for the quick wins. Patience is the key to our success (for over 130 years), and from this, the rewards do come.” Caroline Brown Brown Family Wine Group
Family wineries, perhaps by nature of that long term view, are typically at the forefront of sustainability measures too. Taylors, for example, was the first in the world to launch a carbon-neutral wine range (80 Acres) and has partnered with the Sydney Institute of Marine Science to help save the Endangered White’s Seahorse from extinction. Tahbilk (Australia’s 11th largest wine company in 2021) is now carbon neutral, and is growing closer to ‘natural’ carbon neutrality thanks to decades of tree planting. Of course, it’s not all about a working green gauge. The other element for
Bill Calabria
enduring family winery success is about adaptation and embracing change. For the Brown and Hill-Smith families, it has meant buying up vineyards and wineries in Tasmania with an eye on a climate-change affected future. For the Calabria family, it has meant consolidating their footprint with the acquisition of another legendary family business, McWilliam’s Wines, in 2021. The family is also broadening its range of wholesale partnerships through the Vintners & Co. Merchants portfolio (including availability of the Piedmont original Fontanafredda).
Who do you trust? Finally, if there was a single reason why family wineries have a natural edge, it comes down to a question of trust from consumers and customers. According to the giant Edelman Trust Barometer (which surveys 36,000+ respondents), family businsseses are more trusted (66 per cent) than public (52 per cent) or state-owned (46 per cent) companies. A study published in the Psychology & Marketing Journal dug deeper, theorising that consumers feel this way because they “subconsciously take their positive emotions for their own families and project that onto the family-owned business and its products.” Of course, this doesn’t add up to instant success for family wineries, but it does suggest that when it comes to the crunch of what wine to pull off a shelf, family wineries enjoy an edge. Couple that with a focus on culture, innovation and family values, and it’s little wonder that top 20 list looks like a who’s-who of wine industry families. 50 | National Liquor News
■
Since first establishing their vines in 1877, McWilliam’s
Classic (5-Year), Grand (10-Year) pictured above,
have been celebrated as pioneers of Australia’s
Rare (20-Year) and Very Rare (30-Year) Aged
fortified wines. Working with carefully selected
Tawny, showcasing some of the finest and distinct
parcels of aged stock from the winery’s barrel
fortified releases in McWilliam’s winemaking history.
collection for these new releases. Look out for the
mcwilliams.com.au
For more details please contact your local Calabria Family Wines Group sales representative or customer service on 1800 800 584
SE
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.
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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.
52 | 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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Little Bang Little Banger
Moo Brew Session Ale
Dainton Brewing Major Tom
Sample 3/4 IPA
Fixation Brewing Obsession
ABV: 3.0% Style: Session Ale
ABV: 3.5% Style: Mid-strength Pale
ABV: 2.5% Style: New World IPA
ABV: 4.2% Style: Session IPA
ABV: 4.6% Style: Session IPA
A very pleasant fresh and vibrant example of a juicier style of session IPA that bursts with citrus and tropical fruit hop aroma and flavour, has a full and clean mouthfeel and low back-end bitterness. It has great balance with carbonation and in the overall finish and would make for a great smasher anywhere, anytime.
Food: Arancini
It might be low in ABV but the high level flavour and aroma wouldn’t be unusual in a full strength. Golden and bright with a thick white lasting head the aromas are of dank American hops while there’s great balance between the malts and hops. It’s noticeably bitter but far from offensive. The body is a little thin, it finishes dry and carbonation has some bite.
A masterclass of a classic WCIPA which excels in balance, big American hop character and bitterness yet is still crushable with very high drinkability. It’s pale gold and crystal clear with an off white head while big hop notes of pine and grapefruit lead aroma. Piney, resinous hop flavour with fruity back notes are met with big bready malts, notes of caramel and lingering bitterness.
moobrew.com.au
Food: Cheese burger
Bright pale straw in colour with a lacing white head, there are sweet or honey-like aromas leading to flavours of slight malt sweetness backed with a balanced hop profile. It has a slightly thinner body as expected with medium carbonation. Overall very drinkable and a good option if you’re watching your alcohol intake.
Food: Bánh mì littlebang.com.au
A clear deep amber with solid off white foam, slight floral aromas play into rock melon and pithy citrus while biscuity malt weaves and darts with subtle stone fruit as it warms. Tart citrus fruit flavours are to the fore with a splash of pine and fresh cut grass that adds a green, clean dynamic as a counterpoint while light honeyed malt tones offer balance and contrast.
Food: Backyard BBQ samplebrew.com.au
Food: A big juicy burger
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Bodriggy Brewing Bod Light
Moffat Beach Social Jam
Shelter Brewing XPA
Matilda Bay Redback Summer
Brick Lane Sunsetter
ABV: 4.0% Style: Low carb Lager
ABV: 3.5% Style: Mid-strength Pale
ABV: 3.5% Style: Mid-strength XPA
ABV: 4.7% Style: Wheat Beer
ABV: 4.6% Style: Ginger Beer
Beautiful in the glass, it displays prominent hop characters with grapefruit and both resinous and ripe tropical fruit taking charge. The slightly sweet, toasted malty palate provides some balance for the firm bitterness and lingering resinous, slightly peppery hop flavours. Champion Session Beer at last year’s Indies and will not disappoint.
Shelter’s mid-strength offering is a cleverly put together, hop-centric XPA that is ideal for anyone who likes lower alcohol beers, fully flavoured hoppy beers, or ideally, both! Pouring a burnt orange hue, tropical fruit aromas are abundant. The same flavours are evident on tasting and underpinned by a gentle bitterness, while the moderate body offers a lasting finish of fruity and herbaceous hops.
This is a very well made beer. Super refreshing and light but has a character that keeps you wanting more. Pale straw in colour with ever so slight haze and a thick white head there are some pleasant yeast esters present while the nice, bready malt flavours are quickly overshadowed by citrusy spice showcasing the yeast. It finishes dry with a light crisp body while carbonation is high.
Spicy flavours and aromas from QLD-sourced ginger make this a very light and refreshing entrant into the category. Pouring cloudy, almost pub squash-like, and with a light refreshing carbonation, this is well suited as a palate cleanser or for an all-day session. Served over ice Sunsetter could be equally enjoyed starting the day at a brunch as at sunset while overlooking the beach.
Food: Steamed mussels
bricklanebrewing.com
Refreshment is the mission here and it’s achieved with aplomb and with more care and thought than many of its ilk. It’s super pale straw with a thin foam that dissipates as aroma offers faint bready malt with a touch of hop citrus and resin. Bready malt carries through and is met with slight estery yeast notes while spritzy citrus signals its obvious intentions of rapidly rehydrating.
Food: Hot dogs bodriggy.beer
Food: Spicy pizza moffatbeachbrewingco. beer
Food: Mild-spiced Asian
Food: Eggs benedict
matildabay.com
shelterbrewing.com.au
May 2022 | 53
Wine Tasting Review
The Pinot G Panel This month our panel sipped and swirled through a range of Pinot Gris and Grigio, to find the standout wines across three price brackets.
Panels Picks
The Panel ➤
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J ack Glover, Marketing Director, Accolade Wines
B rian Chase Olson, Director, Blend Public Relations
S abine Duval, Brand and Sales Manager, Hungerford Hill Wines
E d Peake, Key Account Manager, Penfolds
C hristine Ricketts, Wine Educator, Endeavour Group
A ndy Young, Associate Publisher, The Shout and Bars and Clubs
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
54 | National Liquor News
Hungerford
Alma Mora
Trentham Estate
Hill Classic
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Gris
Tumbarumba
Region: Argentina
Region: Murray Darling
Pinot Gris
VIN: 2021 LUC: $12.90
VIN: 2021 LUC: $10.21
Region: Tumbarumba
Distributed by:
Distributed by:
VIN: 2021 LUC: $17.20
Déjà Vu Wine Co.
Bacchus Wine Merchants
“More intensity on the nose. Quite pretty. White flowers. Good sugar and fat concentration. Punter friendly.” – Sabine Duval
“Generous value for money. Delicious varietal. Nashi pear and talc flavours jump out. Rich and fleshy, not too much sweetness.” – Ed Peake
Distributed by: Winestock
“Well rounded and delicious. Richness and complexity on the nose with notes of preserved lemon. Pears come through on the palate with fresh acidity to balance. Delightful finish.” – Ed Peake
Wine Tasting Review
LUC over $15 La Boheme Act
Brokenwood
Three Pinot Grigio
Pinot Gris
Region: Yarra Valley
Region: Beechworth
VIN: 2021 LUC: $15.73
VIN: 2021 LUC: $21.50
Distributed by: De Bortoli
Distributed by: Samuel Smith and Son
“Bright and light, lovely nose of crisp green pear and citrus. Palate slightly short but still attractive, with balanced acid and weight.” – Ed Peake
“A delightfully approachable wine with some spice and the pear and apple characters that you want with a good Pinot G. Very well-balanced acidity that carries the fruit really well.” – Andy Young
“Many of the wines were made in a drink now ‘smashable’ style, perfect for picnics. They were either very simple or made with more concentration and texture.” Sabine Duval Brand and Sales Manager Hungerford Hill Wines
Thorn-Clarke
Small Victories
Pinot Gris
Pinot Gris
Region: Eden Valley
Region: Adelaide Hills
VIN: 2021 LUC: $16.40
VIN: 2021 LUC: $17.20
Distributed by: Mezzanine
Distributed by: Twelve Bottles
The Fine Wine Specialists
“Classic, juicy, textured and concentrated. Fresh citrus and lemon rind make it a very refreshing wine.” – Brian Chase Olson
“Lemon, limes, honeydew and pear. Classic, bright and very concentrated.” – Brian Chase Olson
Food Pairing ➤
Pike and Joyce
Bay Of Fires
Beurre Bosc
Pinot Gris
Pinot Gris
Region: Tasmania
Region: Adelaide Hills
VIN: 2021 LUC: $28.76
VIN: 2021 LUC: $17.96
Distributed by: Accolade
Distributed by:
Wines
➤
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Déjà Vu Wine Co.
“Incredibly well balanced. The ripeness is spot on with a great balance of acidity to support the crunchy green apple and pear flavours.” – Brian Chase Olson
“Lifted nose. Mouthfilling ripe pear and sweet apple on the palate. Good balance and has interest.” – Christine Ricketts
➤
“ Grilled salmon with its fatty texture goes well with the complex acidity and fruit characters of these wines.” – Brian Chase Olson “ Thai or Vietnamese roast duck salad.” – Jack Glover “ Grigio goes wonderfully with seafood and antipasti, and Gris is a magic complement to any Asian inspired food with spice and chilli.” – Ed Peake “ Definitely a mix of light white seafood with the Grigio, and chicken and pork with the Gris.” – Christine Ricketts
May 2022 | 55
Wine Tasting Review
LUC $12-$15
“Gris or Grigio? Seems like not everyone understands the differences, with some Gris too crisp and some Grigio too rich and round, and this can confuse the customer.”
Giesen Estate
Dee Vine Estate
Pinot Gris
Nericon Pinot Grigio
Region: New Zealand
Region: Riverina
VIN: 2021 LUC: $14.62
VIN: 2021 LUC: $13.99
Distributed by:
Distributed by:
Robert Oatley Vineyards
Dee Vine Estate
“Much more intense than others. Lovely primary fruit with the white flower spectrum.” – Sabine Duval
“Ripe and inviting nose with floral highlights. Balanced palate with slight tones of honey. Generous and delightful.” – Ed Peake
Ed Peake Key Account Manager Penfolds
Ara Single Estate
Pig In The House
Pinot Gris
Organic Pinot Gris
Region: Marlborough NZ
Region: Australia
VIN: 2021 LUC: $13.98
VIN: 2021 LUC: $14.35
Distributed by:
Distributed by: Veraison
Robert Oatley Vineyards
Wines (Sydney), Raw Wine and Beer Co (Melbourne), High
“Floral spice is overt and scented. Alert primary highlights with a spicy varietal signature. Long, with purity and energy.” – Jack Glover
Spirits Wholesale (QLD)
“Feminine and elegant. Nice finish.” – Sabine Duval
Editor’s Picks ➤
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evil’s Corner Resolution D Pinot Gris 2021, Tasmania (Brown Family Wine Group) rtemis Piont Grigio A 2019, Southern Highlands (Artemis Wines) alumba Organic Pinot Y Grigio 2021, South Australia (Samuel Smith & Son) ojo Pinot Grigio 2020, M South Australia (Red+White) quealing Pig Pinot Gris S 2021, Marlborough NZ (Treasury Premium Brands)
56 | National Liquor News
Fattori
La Maschera
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio
Region: Italy
Region: Limestone Coast
VIN: 2020 LUC: $14/94
VIN: 2021 LUC: $14.24
Distributed by:
Distributed by:
Déjà Vu Wine Co.
Samuel Smith & Son
“Vibrant bright colour. Faint minerality. Crunchy acidity with a well balanced finish. Will be beautiful with seafood.” – Ed Peake
“Dry light body, balancing acidity and nice finish. Very easy to drink. Lovely blend of fruit to acid.” – Christine Ricketts
Wine Tasting Review
LUC under $12 Prima Alta
Jacob’s Creek Cool
Pinot Grigio
Harvest Pinot Grigio
Region: Italy
Region: South Eastern Australia
VIN: 2020 LUC: $11.83
VIN: 2021 LUC: $9.07
Distributed by:
Distributed by:
Déjà Vu Wine Co.
Pernod Ricard
Quick facts about Pinot Gris and Grigio ➤
“Rosewater and pretty Turkish delight and apricots. Very textural. Great food matching wine.” – Sabine Duval
“Citrus, stone fruit and pear, but there’s a nice vibrancy to this wine that gives a little bite of sharpness to the fruit enhanced with a good balance of sweetness and acidity.” – Andy Young
Millon Wines
Taylors Promised
The Impressionist
Land Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio
Region: South Australia
Region: Eden Valley
VIN: 2021 LUC: $11.01
VIN: 2021 LUC: $9.68
Distributed by: Taylors
➤
➤
P inot Gris and Pinot Grigio are made from the same grape, but each wine has differences in style derived from where they originated. P inot Gris hails from France and is known to be more full-bodied and richer, while Pinot Grigio began in Italy and is lighter-bodied, crisp and fresh. P inot Gris/Grigio grapes are a mutation of the Pinot Noir grape and have more of a grey skin than other white varieties.
Distributed by: Millon Wines
“Interesting Grigio with the creamy texture mid-palate. Pleasant mouthfeel. Well balanced, with good length.” – Christine Ricketts
“Pear flesh with a flinty undertone. Light and quenching palate with hints of quince and nougat.” – Jack Glover
De Bortoli Rutherglen
McWilliam’s
Estate Pinot Grigio
Inheritance
Region: Rutherglen
Pinot Grigio
VIN: 2021 LUC: $11.49
Region: Australia
Distributed by: De Bortoli
VIN: 2021 LUC: $5.00 Distributed by: Calabria
“Pear and apple on this wine. Lovely palate, enough sweetness to carry through. Vibrant acid, fruit and length. Balanced.” – Sabine Duval
Family Wines
“Pleasant, easy-drinking style, nicely balanced. Typical Grigio, with green pear, floral and mineral notes on the nose and medium lingering finish.” – Christine Ricketts
“Overall a clean set of wines. The better wines combined freshness with bright flavour, texture and acid balance.” Jack Glover Marketing Director Accolade Wines
May 2022 | 57
E-commerce
Top themes of opportunity for e-retail In the latest presentation from its ‘On The Pulse’ series, IRI revealed the top areas of opportunity for e-commerce and online retail.
According to IRI analysis, 90 per cent of
actually is and investing further into
covered in the presentation, identified as a core
Australians shop online, and are doing so
e-commerce capabilities, including people,
customer experience pillar that can maximise
more often. The latest annual figures show
insights and digital brand presence.
success in online retail, when done right.
9.2M households now shop online and there
Bone added: “Physical stores, however,
“Order fulfilment is arguably the most
has been a 41 per cent increase in the rate of
are still the most important part of the
dynamic [component] and certainly the
online shopping versus a year ago. The dollar
channel mix to get right.
most debated, because of this rise of quick
value of online sales has grown 102 per cent
“Survey work with our panellists shows
commerce and rapid delivery,” Bone said.
versus two years ago (pre-pandemic), with
that the main way that shoppers learn about
One of the more material shifts in
online sales now accounting for 11.4 per cent
new products is still through physical, in-store
fulfilment preferences of customers lately
of total retail sales.
trade activations. Let’s get that balance right.”
has been the move to click and collect. IRI
Dan Bone, IRI Channel Insights Manager,
Another key theme was how lockdowns
referred to results from Endeavour Group,
said in the presentation: “If we look at just
have impacted the uptake of online retail
which noted that the number of pick up sales
the last year, we can see that online sales are
options. Throughout the pandemic, lockdowns
grew at a rate ahead of delivery sales, which
growing nearly five times faster than what
have created multi-year change in a matter of
sustained digital sales for Endeavour Group
we’re seeing in total retail.”
weeks, and fluctuated the popularity of online.
even after COVID restrictions began to ease.
While these figures are looking at all
By looking at both local and UK lockdown
For customers, click and collect allows
sectors of retail, the continued consumer
results, IRI sees that as consumer mobility goes
convenience and safety (by not having
love of online and astronomical growth
down, the rate of online sales goes up.
to enter the store to browse), flexibility
across the board shows substantial promise
This means that maintaining online
(to enter the store to browse if you forget
for the liquor industry. But where does all
sales penetration will be more difficult
something) and immediacy (through rapid
this opportunity lie?
moving forward, if lockdowns don’t happen
purchase and collection options). For the
One of the themes that Bone explored was
again. Without this circumstantial driver,
retailer, this model allows better economics
the implications of embedded e-commerce.
IRI said it’s likely that online sales will
via e-commerce options and the possibility
“Online shopping is embedded into how
plateau, especially as so much e-commerce
to drive a potential double transaction or
we go about doing both grocery and non-
development so far during the pandemic
increased spend.
grocery shopping, so it really creates this need
has caught the ‘low hanging fruit’. Growth
to stand out on virtual shelves. That’s a more
now won’t be as easy, and will require
Read more of this story online at
pressing need than ever before,” Bone said.
investment into creative, engaging and
https://bit.ly/3xYNB7h . The full IRI webinar
immersive experiences that hero a seamless
is available for free via their website, and is
omnichannel shopping journey.
also a precursor to a more detailed report
Bone said retailers need to focus on accelerating digital and e-commerce strategies, by identifying what the strategy 58 | National Liquor News
Fulfilment was a theme that Bone also
■
available to IRI clients.
averaged
60,497
*
unique users every month.
Do you have an upcoming launch, NPD, line extension or promotion? Then drive brand awareness. Support your sales team. Book a campaign.
Contact Shane T Williams to book now! on 02 8586 6205 or email stwilliams@intermedia.com.au * Google Analytics 2020, TheShout averaged 60,497 unique users per month.
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