National Liquor News November 2018 by The Intermedia Group

AUSTRALIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LEADING LIQUOR INDUSTRY MAGAZINE

vol. 37 no. 10 - NOVEMBER 2018

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;For 36 years National Liquor News has been the leading trade publication communicating news, trends and in depth features to educate and inform liquor retailers nationally.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Editor’s Note

elcome to the November edition of National Liquor News. We’ve got another cracking issue for you this month. In this issue we have introduced a new series called Wine Talks. As we all know, in such a crowded wine market shoppers are looking for more than just a great tasting product, they are also looking for a brand with a story. So in this series we aim to tell some of those stories and help to give you talking points to share with your customers. To kick off the series we’ve spoken with three wineries. The first is Wingara Wine Group who tells us all about their La La Land range of wines. This eclectic range has been developed with the millennial consumer in mind and breaks down the traditional aspect of wine pairing to create something a bit more fun and approachable. You can read all about it on page 37. We have also spoken to Poole’s Rock and De Bortoli, which are celebrating their 30th and 90th anniversaries respectively – such great milestones for some much-loved Australian brands. You can read these articles beginning on page 38. Over the past month we’ve experienced a bit of tension within the retail drinks space with some turbulence in the ranks of the Independent Liquor Group (ILG), which you can read about on page 10. We need a strong ILG to support a strong independent liquor retail community, so we are pleased to see that things are back on track following the Group’s AGM and the appointment of a new board. Some good news coming out of the industry last month was the successful relaunch of the Australian Liquor Stores Association (ALSA). Under the leadership of new CEO Julie Ryan, ALSA has relaunched as Retail Drinks Australia (RDA) with a new structure and direction that has won back the support of the Coles Liquor Group, which had previously separated from ALSA around three years ago. You can read all about RDA beginning on page 18. In more good news, last month we held the 25th annual Australian Liquor Industry Awards (ALIA), which by all accounts was an incredible

Get the facts DrinkWise.org.au

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Andrew Johnston from De Bortoli and Deb Jackson

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF ALIA’S WINNERS AND THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS WHOSE INVALUABLE SUPPORT MAKES THE NIGHT THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE DRINKS INDUSTRY’S CALENDAR. success. We would like to say a big congratulations to all of ALIA’s winners and also to thank all of our sponsors, whose invaluable support makes the night the highlight of the drinks industry’s calendar. Stay tuned for the December issue of National Liquor News for a full recap of the night. As always we’ve also got all of our regular features, including columns from the heads of ABA, Wine Australia and New Zealand Winegrowers. Along with our annual Scotch and Irish whiskies feature and we take a look at what beers and ciders are going to be hot this summer. As always, keep your feedback flowing through (djackson@intermedia.com.au). This is your mag, so let me know what you want to hear and make it work for you. Cheers, Deb Deborah Jackson, Editor 02 8586 6206 | djackson@intermedia.com.au

TOP READS 36 45 54

WINE TALKS WHISKY OR WHISKEY? IT’S ALL GOOD… FUN IN THE SUN NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS IS THE OFFICIAL TRADE PUBLICATION OF RETAIL DRINKS AUSTRALIA (RDA).

4 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

WE ENCOURAGE RESPONSIBLE DRINKING

PUBLISHER: Paul Wootton

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EDITOR: Deborah Jackson

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GENERAL MANAGER SALES – LIQUOR & HOSPITALITY GROUP: Shane T. Williams stwilliams@intermedia.com.au

GROUP ART DIRECTOR – LIQUOR AND HOSPITALITY: Kea Thorburn

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2018

MAKING THE VOYAGE TO AUSTRALIA SINCE 1855 The House of Lanson has been crafting ﬁne champagnes using traditional methods avoiding malolactic fermentation for 258 years. Our most recent addition to the family is cuvée Père et Fils Brut NV which is available exclusively through the On-Premise and selected independent wine stores. An enriched evolution of the classic Lanson Black Label it pays homage to the uniquely mouth-watering House style. On searching our archives, we discovered that Lanson Champagne has been available in Australia since 1855. Let’s raise a glass to celebrate the arrival of the new kid on the block 163 years later… www.lanson.com

#THEPERFECTSTART

Please drink responsibly. Distributed by Wine DNA, a network of Australia’s top independent wine distributors NSW-ACT:Young & Rashleigh Wine Merchants, 02 9967 5900 VIC-TAS: Santé Wines, 03 9429 1990 QLD: Cuttings Wines, 07 3262 1455 SA-NT: Options Wines, 08 8346 9111

CONTENTS

45 66 54

Contents November

Wine

30 New Zealand Winegrowers: Celebrating 23 years of export growth 31 Wine Australia: Champagne and sparkling on the rise 32 Wine News: All the latest releases and wine news 36 Wine Talks: La La Land, Poole’s Rock, De Bortoli 60 Wine Tasting Review: All the results from our Riesling tasting

Brews 22 Brewing: What’s new in the world of beer 23 Gage Roads: Introduces new national sales and marketing arm, Good Drinks 54 Summer Beer & Cider: How to take advantage of the summer season

58 Beer Tasting: Our experts review the latest release beers

26 Shopper Insights: Norrelle Goldring explores an Alaskan brewery

Spirits

40 Christmas Retailing: We get you set for the busiest trading period of the year

24 Spirits: The latest releases, news and promotions from the spirits category 25 Strait Brands: Set to take on the mainland 45 Scotch & Irish Whiskies: These categories are seeing strong growth

Retail Focus 18 Retail Drinks Australia: The industry body announces its Foundation Board 20 Retailer Profile: The Bottle Shop at The Royal, Bondi 21 Profile: The South Eastern Australia Young Liquor Retailer of the Year

6 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

Regulars 8 News: The latest liquor industry news for retailers around the country 16 IRI: The latest industry knowledge from IRI 28 People: All the latest industry appointments 29 ABA: Executive Director Fergus Taylor talks about marketing alcohol responsibly 64 Events: An exclusive peek at last month’s launches and parties

NEW

FINISHED

iPA

For smooth, fresh, hoppy notes

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT YOUR PERNOD RICARD AUSTRALIA ACCOUNT MANAGER OR OUR CUSTOMER SERVICE ON 1300 363 153 Enjoy Jameson Responsibly

NEWS The new ILG Board: Douglas Dalley, Steven Speed, Kent Walker, Sergio Colosimo, Chris Grigoriou, Damien Bottero, Bobby McGhee, Shaughn Murphy, Peter Cox, Paul Esposito

ILG STEADIES SHIP WITH NEW BOARD The Independent Liquor Group (ILG) experienced some turbulent times last month as an internal coup saw CEO Paul Esposito, Chairman Chris Grigoriou, and Directors Sergio Colosimo and Kent Walker all temporarily ousted. The four were ousted by fellow Directors Malcolm Russell, Michael Thomas, Kylee Dennis and David Mellor, but this all came to an end when these four Directors resigned their posts at the company’s Annual General Meeting on the Gold Coast. Chairman Grigoriou had been compelled by a NSW Supreme Court ruling to open the AGM at The Star Hotel on the Gold Coast to immediately resign his post. He then put himself forward for re-election, achieving it by a show of hands among members. A motion to dissolve the entire board of directors by Mal Russell was withdrawn and was not voted on. The resignations and withdrawals also allowed Esposito to retain his role as CEO while Damien Bottero, Walker and Colosimo were duly voted to remain on the board. With Leigh David McCracken, David Mellor and Michael Thomas withdrawing their nominations, the remaining nominees successfully joined the board. These were Peter Cox, Douglas Dalley, Robert (Bobby) McGhee, Shaughn Murphy and Steven Speed. In his opening address, CEO Esposito admitted, “It’s been a really tough week, full of emotion and passion. So let’s be respectful, we’re in it together. Our job is to grow”. Speaking to National Liquor News immediately after the vote, Chairman Grigoriou said, “I believe the wishes of the members have been done and decided in the right way. We can move forward with the directors who have come on board and focus on what ILG does best, supplying its members with great products, great prices and the highest service levels in the industry”. Director Walker, also speaking with National Liquor News, said: “There was a lot of passion over the last few weeks and this morning four of the directors offered their resignations and were accepted, which took a lot of heat out of the AGM. “I certainly respect their decision and I’m pleased they resigned. I thank them for their time on the board. “The one value ILG has always had is a family value and I don’t like families fighting, it’s against our ethics. I’m pleased the AGM went ahead without any disputes and I look forward to a successful year ahead for ILG,” said Walker. It was also announced at the AGM a new induction course for directors would be launched.

8 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

DSICA REBRANDS AS SPIRITS AND COCKTAILS AUSTRALIA Australia’s spirits industry association the Distilled Spirits Industry Council of Australia has rebranded to Spirits and Cocktails Australia (SCA), which it says will better reflect the vibrant spirits sector and cocktail culture it represents. In addition to the rebranding the association has also welcomed a new member in Pernod Ricard Australia, which joins existing members Bacardi-Martini Australia, Beam Suntory, Brown-Forman, Diageo Australia, William Grant & Sons, Moët Hennessy Australia, Remy-Cointreau and Bundaberg Distilling Company. SCA Chair and Managing Director of Diageo Australia, David Smith said: “There’s a positive cultural change underway in Australia right now when it comes to alcohol trends. Australians are choosing to drink better rather than more, and premium spirits are in growth. “With Australians embracing an increasingly vibrant local bar scene that puts cocktail culture and the art of bartending front and centre, now is the right time for us to have a name that better reflects our dynamic industry and the contribution we make to Australian culture and the local economy.” Smith added: “We’re also delighted to welcome our newest member Pernod Ricard Australia. SCA now represents 75 per cent of the Australian spirits sector and is the leading voice and advocate for our industry.” The CEO of DSICA, Alec Wagstaff, remains CEO of the rebranded association and he highlighted what the priorities will be for SCA. “Spirits and Cocktails Australia will promote and protect a spirits sector that supports a positive Australian drinking culture, employs thousands of people locally right across the country and makes a significant contribution to the Australian economy,” Wagstaff said. “Right now, our highest priority issue remains the heavy tax burden carried by Australian spirits drinkers who responsibly enjoy 20 per cent of the total alcohol consumed in Australia but pay 50 per cent of the total alcohol tax collected and face twice yearly excise increases on their favourite spirits drink. “Spirits and Cocktails Australia will continue to play a vital role in working with its stakeholders to address the inequality of the current alcohol tax laws.”

AU S T R A L I Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; S L A R G E S T L I Q U O R C O - O P E R AT I V E E X P E R I E N C E T H E F A M I LY GET TOGETHERS R ACE D AYS A N N UA L MEM B E R S DI NNE R

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WE ARE COMMITTED TO EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

TR A I N I N G & B U SI NE SS WOR KSH OP S

For more information contact ANDREW CLEMENT | 0427 846 902 or visit us at www.ilg.com.au

NEWS

RED ROOSTER TO TRIAL ALCOHOL DELIVERY

COLES REPORTS FIRST QUARTER LIQUOR GROWTH Wesfarmers has announced the Coles retail sales results for the first quarter of the 2019 financial year and for the first time this has included specific details of sales for Coles Liquor. The result saw the Coles Liquor division, including hotels, record sales for the first quarter of $744m, an increase of 2.1 per cent on the prior corresponding period. Comparable liquor sales increased 1.3 per cent for the quarter, driven by growth in basket size and transactions. Over a number of years, Coles has been working on transforming its liquor business, and in speaking about the progress of that in the results, the supermarket giant said: “The transformation program continued to deliver growth in sales, with significant opportunities remaining to improve product range through exclusive brands and delivering greater convenience for customers. “Investment in the store network continued in the quarter with 21 store renewals, including the next evolution Liquorland format and seven First Choice Liquor Market brand conversions.” Overall Coles saw a five per cent increase in sales for the first quarter, to $9.83bn, which Wesfamers’ Managing Director Rob Scott said was thanks to continued good momentum in Coles, improved in-store execution and investments in FlyBuys promotions. “Coles Supermarkets’ headline sales increased 5.8 per cent during the quarter, and its total sales increased by 5.0 per cent,” Scott said. “Strong growth in basket size, transaction numbers and units sold, as well as improvements in fresh market share supported the sales result. Coles’ liquor and convenience segments also recorded headline sales growth for the quarter. “The result for the first quarter was pleasing as it demonstrated the ability of the Coles team to continue to focus on improving in-store execution while preparations continued for the proposed shareholder vote on the demerger of Coles,” he said. At the end of the quarter Coles Liquor’s total number of venues remained 987, after closing one First Choice, three Liquorland and one hotel and opening five Liquorland stores. The store breakdown is 97 First Choice, 84 Vintage Cellars, 719 Liquorland and 87 hotels. Earlier last month Coles revealed the timetable for its proposed demerger from Wesfarmers, which will see shareholders vote on the issue this month. Coles said that if the demerger goes ahead it plans to continue to report quarterly sales as a standalone listed company in future quarters.

10 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

Chicken restaurant chain, Red Rooster, has revealed plans to start an alcohol delivery trial through selected Victorian restaurants. Available initially through six restaurants some of the products on offer include Carlton Draught, James Squire One Fifty Lashes and Chandon NV Brut. There are also a number of RTDs and wines available to customers, with Red Rooster saying the drinks “represent the perfect pairings for Red Rooster’s roast chicken menu”. Speaking about the trial, Red Rooster’s CEO, Nick Keenan said that there will be strict conditions surrounding the delivery of alcohol and that it would only be available if customers also order food. “Red Rooster is looking to be relevant and contemporary for its customers; we are looking to diversify our business offering and are therefore conducting this trial through selected stores in Victoria only. “We chose Victoria because it’s a dynamic and forward-thinking foodie state and we think it is the perfect place for this trial to happen. “This trial is in a strictly controlled environment, in fact, there are very strict guidelines for the whole process. Every crew member has undertaken RSA training, there are strict limits on alcohol that can be ordered and alcohol can only be ordered with food and through delivery not in restaurant. You will not be able to order only alcohol through our channels. “All crew have done RSA training and alcohol will not be handed over under any circumstances until ID has been cited and it is confirmed that the person receiving is over 18.” Customers will be able to use the service through the Redrooster.com.au website, as well as when ordering through Deliveroo, Menulog and UberEats. Keenan said that the move is not about Red Rooster becoming an alcohol delivery channel, “we are a food business offering choice to our customers”. He added: “Keep in mind that this is still a trial and depending on results between now and the end of the year this will impact if, how, where and when it will be rolled out. At this stage it’s too early to know exactly what kind of rollout it will be. But it will be subject to strict conditions and what is best for the customers.”

Distributed Nationally by Red + White: 1300 780 074

NEWS

THE FUTURE OF IBA BUILDING A BETTER METCASH BEGINS WITH UNDERSTANDING YOUR SHOPPER, SAYS GROUP CEO JEFF ADAMS. DEB JACKSON REPORTS FROM THE 2018 IBA CONFERENCE.

2018 IBA Trade Workshop business session

etcash Group CEO, Jeff Adams, has spoken about his vision for Independent Brands Australia (IBA) and laid out plans for a “better Metcash”. Speaking at the annual IBA Conference held at the Hyatt Regency in Sydney, Adams told delegates that to effectively compete it is important to figure out where the customer is going, and then get there early. “It’s a continuous cycle of improving your customer offer through foresight, through insight, through action,” he said. Adams highlighted convenience, availability, price and range as the key drivers influencing shopper behaviour in today’s market. “Customer trends are showing that customers are shopping more frequently, less planned and more local. As a network, I believe IBA is well positioned for this trend, with some great convenient locations, and we’ll need to keep developing a strong local presence,” he said. “Having what they want when they want it is important so managing our stock replenishment and warehouse deliveries to make sure we’re always in stock is another key factor. “Price will always be on a customer’s agenda, so being what I would call the right price for customers is important. And by right price, this takes into account being value for money having the right promotions while also protecting retailers’ margins. “And finally, range. Getting that balance right between our core ranges and our retailers having the ability to flex their range for local preferences. Having the right products for each store that matches their customers and their local community. I would say this is clearly one of the strengths of the independent model versus the chains.” Adams also pointed towards lifestyle factors that are influencing shopper behaviour,

Jeff Adams, Metcash Group CEO

specifically referencing health and wellbeing, premiumisation and the digital age. “Health and wellbeing is one of the main drivers of these lifestyle changes leading to customers who are choosing to drink less but wanting more premium products. “And then there’s the growing impact of the digital world, how customers are using technology and the many changes that result from this — from fast-paced range changes in categories like craft beers, influenced by social media, to emerging trends like the last mile delivery option. “This is a very high-level view of how customers are changing, and how we’ll need to keep adapting our offer to remain relevant,” he said. Adams announced that to be able to keep up with the fast rate at which shoppers are evolving, Metcash would be launching a new program called Mfuture.

12 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

“Mfuture will be a five-year program working on building a better Metcash to serve all of you: our retailers, our suppliers and your customers. Mfuture will be a balanced program focused both on sales growth initiatives and driving cost efficiencies. “Customers are changing faster than they ever have in history, and they’re telling us where they’re going. Mfuture will be about how we will keep adapting to those changes, working together with you to follow them, developing the right offers and working to get there early. It will also be focused on improving our systems, our processes and delivering efficiencies to get to the lowest cost to serve. “So what’s my vision for the future of IBA? It’s about building a better Metcash, focused on where customers are going. A better Metcash to support all of you, our IBA retailers, to be more competitive and to get there early for your customers.”

NEWS

ILR OUTLINES ITS THREE-YEAR STRATEGY INDEPENDENT LIQUOR RETAILERS’ THREE-YEAR PLAN INCLUDES LAUNCHING CLICK-AND-COLLECT AND ITS OWN CRAFT BEER BRAND, BULLETING BREWING CO, AS DEB JACKSON REPORTS.

ILR Group at James Boag Launceston

ndependent Liquor Retailers (ILR) has unveiled an aggressive three-year plan to members at its annual conference in Tasmania, which includes the launch of Bulletin Brewing Co. ILR has enjoyed significant success with its growing private label portfolio and will continue to grow the range, including a greater push into the craft beer segment with its newly developed craft beer brand. The first beer that will hit the shelves under the Bulletin brand will be The Daily Pale Ale, which was brewed at Sydney’s Sauce Brewing Co. ILR General Manager Corey Leeson said that the new beer will be hitting stores over the coming weeks and will be accompanied by marketing support across the network. The three-year plan outlines a number of other key pillars for growth including the shift into a new digital-first promotional strategy, an investment in cutting edge data analytics, and an aggressive push into the Queensland market. ILR will continue to expand its partnership with Foodworks in NSW while also pushing into Queensland. Already the group has appointed two new Business Development Managers to lead the growth strategy in that state. Leeson said the final strategy was the culmination of significant consultation with the ILR Board, members and industry experts including specialist consultants. “This is a genuine roadmap for an exciting future for the group and its members,” he said.

14 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

“Our plan continues to provide our members with significant rebate opportunities but also looks to invest in their future – providing retailers with unprecedented access to a suite of innovative decision making, marketing and business development tools along with access to an expanding range of quality, high-margin products. “As a group that’s always focused on member value, our new strategy has been built to give members increased choice around the promotional and partnership model that works best for their business and their market.” As a part of the three-year strategy, ILR will shift to a digital-first promotional and marketing strategy, which will reduce reliance on printed catalogues and overall marketing costs. Leveraging significant data insights, the group will provide members with access to a new ‘smart’ marketing plan that will be executed in the immediate vicinity of each of its stores and expand the reach of its promotional cycle significantly along with targeting capability. Finally, ILR has partnered with a specialist online commerce consultant to design a new click-and-collect service for members, which the group says makes “significant sense for a retailer with convenience at the heart of its competitive advantage”. Leeson said the Tasmanian conference was a significant success and provided the group with the opportunity to showcase the results of its recent efforts while laying out an exciting plan for future growth.

NEWS

LSA WA AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED THE BEST LIQUOR RETAILERS AND SUPPLIERS HAVE BEEN RECOGNISED AT THE 2018 LSA WA LIQUOR INDUSTRY AWARDS, AS DEB JACKSON REPORTS.

he Liquor Stores Association of Western Australia (LSA WA) has recognised the best retailers and suppliers in the state at its annual Liquor Industry Awards. More than 330 liquor industry and political leaders gathered in the Grand Ballroom of the Crown Perth to celebrate the 24th annual LSA WA awards night. In an address made by Minister Paul Papalia he congratulated the award winners and highlighted the value of independent liquor stores in WA. Papalia explained that WA’s independent liquor stores are important to a number of his portfolios including Tourism, Racing & Gaming and in particular, small business. The Minister told the audience that as well as the winners of the awards announced during the night, the State was also a big winner from the economic and social returns delivered by WA’s hundreds of small business liquor stores. LSA WA CEO Peter Peck said this year’s event at the Crown Grand Ballroom was very successful in recognising and celebrating excellence in the liquor industry. “There are a lot of quiet achievers in the packaged liquor sector who simply never get acknowledged for their hard work and community service,” Peck said. “The Liquor Industry Awards recognise some of the individuals, teams and families who go above and beyond – sometimes in very difficult circumstances – to provide responsible, diverse and sustainable service in almost every town in WA. “Our members are typically very happy to simply come together and celebrate the award winners. But the Minister’s powerful speech showing his deep understanding of, and support for, small business made the night even better and provided a big boost to member morale. “It was not only great for the industry to get together and acknowledge the hard work required to excel but also a true confidence builder to hear from a Minister who shares our view of the importance of independent liquor stores.”

THE 2018 LIQUOR INDUSTRY AWARD WINNERS: BEST PRODUCT PROMOTION: Winner: Treasury Wine Estates CORPORATE MEMBER OF THE YEAR: Wine Winner: Samuel Smith and Son CORPORATE MEMBER OF THE YEAR: Spirits and RTD Suppliers Winner: Brown Forman

Best Online Presence winners Gage Roads Regional Liquor Store of the Year winner Anita Grace with Lou Spagnolo

CORPORATE MEMBER OF THE YEAR: Beer Winner: Premium Beverages BEST ONLINE PRESENCE: Winner: Gage Roads YOUNG LIQUOR RETAILER OF THE YEAR Winner: James Allen SALES REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR: Winner: Simon Randall COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD: Winner: Nathan Detienne LIQUOR STORE OF THE YEAR NON-METRO: Winner: Cellarbrations Newman LIQUOR STORE OF THE YEAR METRO: Winner: Big Brews Liquor Warnbro

NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS NOVEMBER 2018 | 15

IRI INSIGHTS

IRI LIQUOR KNOWLEDGE

STEPHEN WILSON FROM IRI PROVIDES INSIGHTS INTO THE PERFORMANCE OF THE LIQUOR INDUSTRY FOR THE QUARTER TO AUGUST (02/09/18) ALL GROWTH VERSUS YEAR AGO.

TOTAL OFF-PREMISE LIQUOR • Total Liquor generated value growth of 3.3 per cent from lower volume of -0.1 per cent underlining the continued premiumisation trend. • Branded liquor delivered value growth of 3.5 per cent while Private Label sales were softer declining 0.2 per cent. • Private Label item count is nine per cent lower versus year ago driving the softer sales result.

TOP GROWTH SEGMENTS

*DOLLARS GROWTH % YA 1. Beer Mid-Strength (+18%) 2. RTD Dark Spirits (+4%) 3. Red Bottled (+4%) 4. Craft Australian Beer (+11%) 5. Rose Bottled (+56%)

MARKET VALUE

$4.1bn (+3.3%) MARKET VOLUME*

46.1m (-0.1%)

CATEGORY BREAKDOWN BEER (35%)

WINE (27%)

SPIRITS (22%)

RTD (14%)

*9 Litre (m)

BEER CATEGORY OVERVIEW • Beer value growth was 2.1 per cent with category volume 0.1 per cent sneaking back into positive growth. • Premium Australian Beer is enjoying a renaissance of sorts generating 10 per cent value growth driven by Furphy and Coopers Session Ale. • Premium International Beer, the equal number two ranked sub category in value, delivered flat value and volume growth for the quarter. • CUB and Lion brands are well represented in the top 10 growth brands featuring four brands each.

CATEGORY VALUE

$1.4bn (+2.1%)

CATEGORY VOLUME*

27.3m (+0.1%)

16 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

*9 Litre Equiv (000)

TOP

GROWTH MANUFACTURERS *DOLLARS GROWTH % YA

1. Lion (+4%) 2. Other Manufacturers (+51%) 3. CUB (+1%) 4. Private Label (+7%) 5. Gage Roads Brewing (+35%)

TOP GROWTH SEGMENTS *DOLLARS GROWTH % YA

1. Mid Strength (+7%) 2. Premium Australian (+10%) 3. Full Strength (+2%) 4. Craft Australian Beer (+5%) 5. Low Carb (+1%)

CIDER (2%)

IRI INSIGHTS

RTD CATEGORY OVERVIEW • The stunning turnaround in RTD sales continues with value growth of 5.5 per cent from -1.4 per cent softer volume. • The premiumisation trend is evident with value per litre growth of seven per cent for RTD Dark Spirits and growth of six per cent for RTD Light Spirits. • RTD Dark brands dominate the top 10 growth brands holding the top eight positions. • Canadian Club mirrored its positon in Glass Spirits as the number one growth brand in RTD.

TOP

GROWTH BRANDS

TOP

GROWTH MANUFACTURERS

TOP

GROWTH MANUFACTURERS

$592m (+5.5 %) CATEGORY VOLUME*

5.5m (-1.4%)

*9 Litre Equiv (000)

CATEGORY VALUE

*DOLLARS GROWTH % YA

1. Beam Suntory (+9%) 2. Campari Australia (+12%) 3. Asahi Premium Beverages (+5%) 4. Diageo (+2%) 5. Brown-Forman (+3%)

*DOLLARS SHARE OF TOTAL MARKET 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Canadian Club (+27%) Jim Beam Black Double Serve (NEW) Jack Daniel’s Double Jack (+14%) Woodstock Gold (+14%) Wild Turkey 5% RTD (+15%)

*DOLLARS GROWTH % YA 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Squealing Pig (+58%) 19 Crimes (+132%) Wolf Blass Red Label (+18%) Lindeman’s Bin Series (+21%) Taylors Estate (+16%)

$1.1bn (+4.5%)

CATEGORY VOLUME

9m (+0.1%)

*9 Litre Equiv (000)

GLASS SPIRITS CATEGORY OVERVIEW • Glass Spirits generated value growth of 2.6 per cent and volume growth of 1.2 per cent. • Gin continues to shine generating +58 per cent share of category value growth from 6.3 per cent share of category. • Gin SKU count has exploded increasing by 45 per cent versus a year ago. • Canadian Club remains the leading growth brand in Glass Spirits just ahead of Tanqueray.

TOP

GROWTH BRANDS

CATEGORY VALUE

WINE CATEGORY OVERVIEW • Wine dollar sales remain buoyant generating growth of 4.5 per cent from lower volume of -2.4 per cent. • Cask Wine is the primary driver of volume decline however White Bottled Wine volumes were also two per cent lower primarily driven by Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Moscato and Dry White. • Red Bottled Wine continued its consistent performance delivering +73 per cent of category growth from 41 per cent value share of category. • Rosé Bottled Wine generated +17 per cent of value growth driven by an increased SKU of +20 per cent versus year ago.

TOP

TOP 5 GROWTH MANUFACTURERS

CATEGORY VALUE

*DOLLARS GROWTH % YA 1. 2. 3. 4. 4.

Other Manufacturers (+18%) Treasury Wine Estates (+6%) Brown Family Wine Group (+14%) Taylors Wines (+17%) Samuel Smith & Son (+8%)

*DOLLARS GROWTH % YA

1. Pernod Ricard (+8%) 2. Other Manufacturers (+40%) 3. Beam Suntory (+5%) 4. Campari Australia (+5%) 5. Bacardi-Martini Australia (+5%)

$889m (+2.6%) CATEGORY VOLUME

1.7m (+1.2%)

*9 Litre Equiv (000)

TOP GROWTH BRANDS *DOLLARS GROWTH % YA

1. Canadian Club (+19%) 2. Tanqueray (+37%) 3. Loch Lomond (NEW) 4. Jameson (+11%) 5. Gentleman Jack (+42%)

NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS NOVEMBER 2018 | 17

RETAIL DRINKS AUSTRALIA

Giuseppe Minissale, Shane Tremble, Sharni Fenton, Faye Hartley, Paul Heilman, Cathi Scarce, Justin Dry, Julie Ryan, David Short

LIQUOR RETAILERS GET NEW INDUSTRY BODY THE AUSTRALIAN LIQUOR STORES ASSOCIATION HAS OFFICIALLY RELAUNCHED AS RETAIL DRINKS AUSTRALIA WITH A NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND A REINVIGORATED DIRECTION, AS DEB JACKSON REPORTS.

etail Drinks Australia (RDA) officially launched in Melbourne last month, announcing its Foundation Board Members and sparking a renewed excitement among the industry. RDA has already accepted membership from a significant number of the packaged liquor licences in Australia. And following the launch most of ALSA’s state-based membership has consolidated across with the exception of Western Australia. The Foundation Board Members include RDA CEO Julie Ryan and Giuseppe Minissale, the President of Porter’s Liquor as Chairman. They are joined by the Presidents of ALSA’s former state-based chapters including Paul Heilman the Managing Director of Top Cellars Group (formerly President of LSA NSW), Faye Hartley the Owner of Stuart Park Corner Store (formerly President of LSA NT), and Sam Cufone the Owner of Parafield Airport Liquor Store (formerly President LSA SEA). The Board is rounded out by Shane Tremble the General Manager Corporate Services at Endeavour Drinks Group (EDG), Justin Dry the Co-founder of Vinomofo, Rod Pritchard the Interim CEO of Australian Liquor Marketers (ALM), David Short the Managing Director of Shorty’s Liquor and Cathi Scarce the Director of Coles Liquor. An observer seat will also be granted to the annual winner of the National Young Liquor Retailer of the Year, which is currently occupied by Sharni Fenton from the Vantage Group. As a part of her opening address, Ryan explained the vision for the future of RDA as “to enhance the freedom to retail responsibly”. She said: “These words were chosen carefully and intentionally – to underpin a move away from siloed and reactive advocacy and to embrace positive, agenda setting and pro-active representation. “These words also specifically call out the leadership that must be taken in educating, and representing, responsibility in liquor retailing.”

18 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

“Everything that we do at Retail Drinks Australia will remain focused on the vision of enhancing the freedom for our members to retail responsibly,” Julie Ryan, CEO Retail Drinks Australia

The offical Retail Drinks Australia launch event

RETAIL DRINKS AUSTRALIA The new structure of the association is intentionally corporatised both in form and philosophy. “It is my strong belief that not for profit associations should be just as focused on delivering shareholder value as a profit generating enterprise,” said Ryan. “Reviewing our P&L and applying principles of eliminating waste and maximising efficiencies will result in greater value being returned to members – in services, events, education, and representation. “Aside from abandoning non-core activities, this can also be achieved by avoiding overlap with other industry bodies to allow Retail Drinks to focus on the core of liquor retail issues. “While existing state-based relationships needed to be fostered and preserved, they also needed to be managed under a single structure that would ensure consistency of policy and strategy. “Everything that we do at Retail Drinks Australia will remain focused on the vision of enhancing the freedom for our members to retail responsibly. “We will provide tools and resources to make our members more efficient and save them money. “We will partner with our corporate members to provide leading category insights, data and education. “We will collaborate with other parts of the liquor industry to maximise our relevance on agreed issues. “We will work with organisations such as DrinkWise and ABAC to provide education and tools to assist with compliance and responsible retailing. “Most critically, we will have a single, credible, unified voice that will represent the consensus view of liquor retailers with all levels of government.” Ryan thanked creative agency Nucleus and law firm Maddocks for the parts they played in executing the vision of the new brand, website, structure and membership. She also thanked the support of RDA’s corporate suppliers, who are all now recognised with their own category of membership under the new structure. The new structure and direction of Retail Drinks Australia has won back the support of the Coles Liquor Group, which had previously separated from ALSA around three years ago. “ALSA and therefore Retail Drinks is indebted to the unwavering support and membership of both Endeavour Drinks Group and ALM, and I am incredibly proud to say that the vision and execution of Retail Drinks has won back the support of Coles Liquor Group, who have rejoined Retail Drinks.” More information on the vision and purpose of Retail Drinks Australia can be found on its new website http://www.retaildrinks.org.au.

Faye Hartley and Michelle Walker

Deb Jackson and Paul Wootton Michael Ritoli and Scott English

NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS NOVEMBER 2018 | 19

RETAILER PROFILE

THE BOTTLE SHOP AT THE ROYAL, BONDI WE CHAT WITH MERIVALE GROUP SOMMELIER FRANCK MOREAU WHO HAS CURATED AN IMPRESSIVE RANGE OF AUSTRALIAN PRODUCERS AND INTERNATIONAL BRANDS, WITH A FOCUS ON ROSÉ, ORGANIC AND LOW INTERVENTION WINES AT THE NEWLY RENOVATED BOTTLE SHOP AT THE ROYAL IN BONDI.

Q WHAT CHANGES THAT HAVE BEEN MADE TO THE ROYAL BOTTLE SHOP AND WHY? The bottle shop was looking a bit tired and needed a revamp so we wanted to refresh the shop to look more modern and welcoming. We want our guests to feel good when they are shopping, so we gave it a fresh lick of paint, and new lighting and shelving.

Q WERE THERE ANY TRENDS THAT YOU HAD IN MIND WHEN CURATING THE WINE (AND OTHER BEVERAGES) LISTS FOR THE NEW BOTTLE SHOP? We want to offer a range of beverages with something for everyone. We have all the classics, the craft wine and beers, a great selection of rosé for summer, and some top end wine if you want to celebrate.

so we are trying to introduce new products like wine in cans, low alcohol wines, craft ciders, and Pet Nat wines to name a few. We have also created a big selection of French wines inside the shop.

Q WHAT ELSE MAKES THE NEWLY OPENED STORE UNIQUE? We work very hard to have some really interesting products available and we have built relationships with many small producers over the years. We always want to be introducing and educating customers on new discoveries and products. We also have our Merivale brands from domestic to imported that represent some of the best value for money in the bottle shop. We work very hard to have the best quality products.

Q HOW CHALLENGING IS IT FOR Q DO YOU SEE ORGANIC AND LOW INTERVENTION WINES AS A GROWING CATEGORY? Of course, we have a selection of organic and low intervention wines. There is definitely a lot of curiosity around this category and a lot of people want to try something a bit different, but I can’t say that this is the most popular category either.

Q ARE YOU TRYING TO BRING IN ANY NEW DEMOGRAPHICS OF DRINKER THROUGH YOUR NEW PRODUCT RANGING? Definitely as we want to have a good diversity

Franck Moreau

INDEPENDENT RETAILERS TO COMPETE WITH THE BIG CHAINS? If you are trying to compete with big chains your strategy is wrong. We are focusing on small producers, exclusive brands, and before everything else we want the best customer service. We listen to our guests and what they want, so that we can offer some of the best value and high-quality beverages. We want our guests to be recognised when they come in and feel valued when they shop with us. We are still very competitive in price as well as we have strong buying power.

20 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

“If you are trying to compete with big chains your strategy is wrong. We are focusing on small producers, exclusive brands, and before everything else we want the best customer service.”

L-R Corey Terry, Tony Williams and Julie Ryan

PROFILE

SOUTH EASTERN AUSTRALIA YOUNG LIQUOR RETAILER OF THE YEAR NAMED THE WINNER OF RETAIL DRINKS AUSTRALIA’S SEA YOUNG LIQUOR RETAILER OF THE YEAR AWARD WILL NOW COMPETE FOR THE NATIONAL TITLE, AS DEB JACKSON REPORTS.

etail Drinks Australia has named Corey Terry of Vantage Group in Launceston, Tasmania, as the 2018 South Eastern Australia Young Liquor Retailer of the Year. Terry will now be entered into the national Young Liquor Retailer competition and will go up against the winners from each state, with the national winner to be announced in mid-2019. Among other things, the national winner will receive an ‘observer’ seat on the board of Retail Drinks Australia alongside representatives from Coles Liquor, Endeavour Drinks Group, Australian Liquor Marketers (ALM) and others from right around Australia. Terry is following in the footsteps of Sharni Fenton, also from Vantage Group, who was the national winner in 2017. Terry told National Liquor News that he was extremely excited by the win as it will provide great networking and career opportunities for him. “I was happy in just being nominated and being one of the final two, so even just that was a feather in the cap. But to go on to win it and to find out how that is going to help me progress is a bit of excitement but also makes me a bit nervous at the same time.” Over the past 12 months the store that Terry manages, 9/11 in Launceston City, has won the Tasmanian Hospitality Association’s (THA) Best Liquor Retail Outlet award and then also went on to win the national title at the Australia Hospitality Association (AHA) awards. “I think it’s a really good reward for effort for not just myself but also for the Vantage Group. And all of the awards and accolades that we’ve been getting in the last two to three years, including Sharni (Fenton) winning the national Young Liquor Retailer title last year, has been really good.” The Young Liquor Retailer awards are sponsored by REST and was presented by Tony Williams. Hannah Lambert from BWS in Findon, South Australia was the runner up.

Sharni Fenton and Corey Terry

“I think it’s a really good reward for effort for not just myself but also for the Vantage Group. And all of the awards and accolades that we’ve been getting in the last two to three years, including Sharni (Fenton) winning the national Young Liquor Retailer title last year, has been really good,” Corey Terry. NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS NOVEMBER 2018 | 21

BREWING

IBA ISSUES BEER LABELLING GUIDELINES The Independent Brewers Association (IBA) has created the IBA Beer Labelling Guidelines and Logo Pack, which have been designed to help independent brewers ensure they comply with Australia’s beer labelling laws. With mandatory pregnancy labels set to be introduced for alcohol products, the IBA has created these guidelines in consultation with members and stakeholders, including The Alcohol Beverages Advertising Code Scheme (ABAC), Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) and DrinkWise. In a statement about the launch, the IBA said: “The truth is, for professional brewers seeking commercial markets, correct labelling is absolutely essential. That’s why we’re making these Guidelines available to all indie brewers across Australia, not just our members. It’s a leadership stance for the benefit of the entire sector. “We’re urging all indie brewers to revise your labelling now and apply the IBA’s Independence Seal. As we know, consumer awareness of the Seal changes consumer behaviour.” The guidelines are for any packaged beer and are structured to make it clear on mandatory label information, optional label information and additional labelling elements.

The mandatory labelling information includes: • Product description • Volume statement • Alcohol content • Standard drinks statement • Country of origin • Supplier and packer name and address • 10c Refund Statement • Best before date • Lot identification • Sulphites and allergens • Use of other ingredients Guidelines include explanations around regulatory authorities, relevant standards and the definition of beer, as well as logos that can be featured on beer labels, such as DrinkWise pregnancy advisory messages, recycling logos and gross weight logos and are available through the Independent Brewers Association website.

WESTONS LAUNCHES MORTIMERS ORCHARD IN AUSTRALIA

DR TIM COOPER TO HEAD WORLD BREWERS’ INSTITUTE

Australia has become the only country worldwide to offer Mortimers Orchard English Apple and English Berry Cider in both 50L kegs and 330ml bottles. Mortimers Orchard launched in the UK in 2015 and is an expertly balanced cider made from 100 per cent fresh English apple juice. It is crafted by Westons Cider, an independent and family-owned cider maker at their Mill in Herefordshire, England. Ian Cameron the Commercial Director at Westons said, “With fruit cider now accounting for 13 per cent of the Australian market, cider lovers are seeking authentic crafted ciders”. Both English Apple and English Berry ciders have a four per cent ABV and both won bronze medals in the 2018 Ciders Australia Awards. “The premium apple cider segment is the fastest growing price segment with volume +10.8 per cent YoY,” said Cameron. Mortimers Orchard English cider is a premium cider, produced by Westons fifth generation family cider maker, Guy Lawrence. “With over 15 years’ grounding, Guy decided to gain some global expertise and in 2007 left for New Zealand. He worked for Hawkes Bay Brewing Company and it was there that he really developed his own style with the freedom to make his own range. The results were clear to see; globally recognised, award-winning ciders. After two years overseas, Guy returned to the family business where he has been creating award winning ciders ever since. We hope that you enjoy his latest creation.” Mortimers Orchard English Apple and Mortimers Orchard English Berry retail for $18.99 per six-pack and are now available nationally through Westons Australia, which can be contacted on www.westonsau.com or 08 9381 2613.

Coopers Brewery’s Managing Director and Head Brewer, Dr Tim Cooper, has been appointed President of the largest global professional body representing brewers, distillers, maltsters and cider makers, the Institute of Brewing and Distilling (IBD). Based in the UK, IBD currently has more than 5000 members across 102 countries and Dr Cooper will serve a one-year term as President, after being appointed at the IBD’s annual general meeting. He is the first Australian to lead the organisation since Bill Taylor (Lion, 2004-05) and Adrian Gardner (CUB, 2001-02) served as Presidents of the Institute and Guild of Brewing, Dr Tim Cooper an earlier iteration of the IBD. Dr Cooper said he was delighted to accept the position. “The world’s brewing and distilling industry is undergoing an enormous surge in interest and growth with the emergence of the craft brewing sector,” he said. “Craft breweries and distillers are opening across the world on a daily basis and this has led to the situation where demand for qualified brewers and brewery workers has reached unprecedented levels. “The IBD is about improving the education and understanding of everyone involved in or entering the industry and helping to underpin the quality of the beers being developed.” The CEO of the Brewers Association of Australia, Brett Heffernan also welcomed the appointment. “Dr Cooper’s election as President of the IBD recognises his passionate commitment to industry excellence and his expertise as a Master Brewer,” he said. “It also underlines Australia’s position as a world brewing leader. “Tim is a living legend, respected by all across the entire alcohol industry and he brings with him a wealth of experience to the leadership of IBD along with a dedication to excellence that will serve the industry well into the future.” The IBD oversees training across all levels of the brewing, distilling and cider industries, from non-production staff through to Master Brewers and Master Distillers and Coopers currently has several employees undertaking IBD courses.

22 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

PROFILE

Scott Player, Head of Sales, Good Drinks

INTRODUCING GOOD DRINKS

GAGE ROADS BREWING HAS REBRANDED ITS NATIONAL SALES AND MARKETING TEAM TO GOOD DRINKS IN A BID TO CONTINUE ON ITS CURRENT GROWTH TRAJECTORY.

age Roads Brewing has announced the rebranding of its national sales and marketing team following 18 months of strong sales growth across Australia. The newly branded national sales and marketing team will be known as Good Drinks and will represent the full range of Gage Roads Brewing’s brands. The move to Good Drinks follows the acquisition by Gage Roads of the Matso’s Broome Brewery. Bringing Matso’s into the Good Drinks family has increased its national reach and accessibility for customers, across its range of products including Matso’s Ginger Beer. Along with Matso’s, Good Drinks will look after Western Australia’s own lager brand Alby, made entirely with premium West Australian barley as well as the entire range of Gage Roads beers including Single Fin (Summer Ale), Atomic (Pale Ale) Little Dove (New World Pale Ale) and Hello Sunshine (Cider). Good Drinks’ Head of Sales Scott Player says that Good Drinks will be a platform to

“Through Good Drinks we are well placed to deliver on the rapid growth in consumer demand for unique products that offer great value and distinct flavour, ensuring increasing sales and market longevity,” Scott Player.

allow Gage Roads to bring new or additional brands into the portfolio in the future, delivering on Gage Roads’ commitment of producing and selling accessible, high volume brands. “With a growing range of uniquely positioned brands within the family, including recently launched West Australian focused Alby and the addition of Matso’s, Good Drinks will allow us to better support our retail and hospitality customers with a range of distinct and diverse products that each have strong consumer demand,” says Player. “We are firmly committed to grow our brand presence not just in Western Australia but particularly on the east coast. Through Good Drinks we are well placed to deliver on the rapid growth in consumer demand for unique products that offer great value and distinct flavour, ensuring increasing sales and market longevity. “At Gage Roads, we believe good drinks are best shared with friends, and Good Drinks was created to help do just that.”

NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS NOVEMBER 2018 | 23

SPIRITS

INDEPENDENCE AND INNOVATION DRIVES EDGEMILL The Edgemill Group is a familyrun business, with roots that have been growing for nearly 50 years, since a humble milk bar opened in the Victorian suburb of Tottenham. With family and independence at the core of what Edgemill is all about, that business grew from a milk bar into a mini-mart, newsagency, post office and the drive-in bottleshop known as Tottenham Cellars. As Tottenham Cellars grew, the family’s knowledge of the liquor industry also grew, with a fundamental belief in the power of the independent retailer at its core. That saw the creation of a wholesale wine and spirits business, Alexander’s Wine and Spirits which has grown and developed into the business that is now known as the Edgemill Group. It is that long family history and understanding of the independent retail sector, that National Sales and Marketing Manager, David Hounsome says is crucial to how the business operates and plans today. “Our DNA is independence and it is our strong partnerships with groups like IBA, Liquor Stax and many others that has enabled us to develop NPD that is unique and exclusive to our independent partners. “Their continued support fuels our search for innovation on their behalf offering a point of difference in the Australian liquor market.” Edgemill prides itself on bringing innovation exclusively to the independent trade first, which has been seen recently with the introduction of Old Number Fifteen Bacon Bourbon Whisky. This is a new expression from the Old Number Fifteen distillery in Kentucky, which has been infused with smokey bacon for a smokey, salty and yet sweet flavour. Hounsome added: “Edgemill is totally committed to the independent sector and to helping it through bringing innovative new products that will help consumers come back for more.”

STONE PINE DISTILLERY CELEBRATES 10 YEARS Stone Pine Distillery is celebrating a decade of creating unique, distinctly Australian spirits this year and to celebrate, owner and distiller Ian Glen has created an anniversary gin featuring a botanical for each year of business and is set for release in early spring. Seeking to add an Australian nuance to the London Dry Style, this celebratory gin aptly named Decade Dry Gin, will feature four native botanicals alongside the juniper forward flavour. Another product coinciding with the release of Decade Dry Gin is a first look at the Brandy liqueur production at Stone Pine. Cool climate 2011 vintage Cabernet Sauvignon wine from the Bathurst region was sourced for this limited release. The wine was pot distilled before being aged for six years in French Oak Barrique to produce a ruby red liqueur with a nice oak complexity and warming finish. Ten years is no small feat particularly for Stone Pine Distillery as it was one of the first regional distilleries in Australia. Glen attributes much of the success to the small bar movement and the increasing growth of craft spirits on the tail of craft beer’s rapid rise. Both the Decade Dry Gin and the Brandy Liqueur are now available nationally through Nip of Courage.

GLENALLACHIE TO LAUNCH IN AUSTRALIA THROUGH VANGUARD GlenAllachie Distillers has announced its partnership with Vanguard Luxury Brands as the exclusive Australian importer and distributor for GlenAllachie Single Malt Scotch Whiskies and MacNair’s Boutique Spirits, with immediate effect. Vanguard, established in 2008 is a fully independent premium beverage wholesaler and brand building importer based in Sydney. David Keir, Sales and Marketing Director at GlenAllachie, says: “It is with great pleasure that we announce this partnership, I’m looking forward to launching GlenAllachie in Australia and working with James and the Vanguard team.” James France of Vanguard, commented: “For years we have been looking for an authentic, premium family of Scotch whiskies for our portfolio and we are delighted that finally we have found the perfect partner in GlenAllachie. We’re sure the trade will be as excited as we are about these great whiskies. GlenAllachie has genuine provenance and a deep archive of age-statement whiskies – two things that are all too rare these days.’’ The initial GlenAllachie single malt Scotch whisky range consists of 10 year old cask strength (57.1 per cent ABV), 12 year (46 per cent ABV), 18 year (46 per cent ABV) and 25 year old (48 per cent ABV). None of the range is chill-filtered or coloured. The GlenAllachie range is available now from Vanguard Luxury Brands. In 2019 the MacNair’s Lum Reek range of peated malts will be added to the lineup.

24 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

PROFILE

Strait advertises on a metro bus in Launceston

STRAIT BRANDS RAMPS UP PRODUCTION THE TASMANIAN DISTILLERY IS ENDEAVOURING TO BECOME THE LARGEST AUSTRALIAN-OWNED PRODUCER OF VODKA AND GIN, SO WE CAUGHT UP WITH PHILIP RIDYARD TO HEAR ALL ABOUT IT. Q TELL ME A BIT ABOUT STRAIT BRANDS AND HOW THE BUSINESS HAS GROWN SINCE IT LAUNCHED? Founded in 2004, Strait Brands went into production on 13 April, 2006 and sold its first bottles of Strait Vodka and Strait Dry Gin at its cellar door the following day. The business strategy was built on vodka and gin and a plan to diversify into white spirits flavoured with Tasmanian grown produce that at the time had no secondary market for surplus volumes. Its dedication to innovation meant that Strait Vodka and Strait Dry Gin were pioneers in the premium spirits sector in Australia, were the first spirits bottles to be screen printed, rather than labelled and the first to move into high volume exports into China and Vietnam. Exports were critical to cash flow as the Federal excise duty impost in domestic markets meant a juggling act as Strait tried to build sales in mainland markets. A triple whammy hit the business in late 2008 when its distributors in China and Vietnam were hit by the effects of the Global Financial Crisis and the Strait was also forced out of its $600,000 production facility due to lease issues. It was unable to raise funding for a new facility and so pulled out of export markets and withdrew from the mainland as it sought to retreat to Tasmania to preserve stock. There were no options for contract production in northern Tasmania at that time as the spirits industry was in its infancy. It wasn’t until December 2015 that Strait Brands was able to secure contract production in northern Tasmania and that was critical to rebuilding the brand and expanding its range to nine products. We had been in a state of semi-dormancy and in 2014-15 conducted a complete audit of the relevance of our original strategy and whether it remained contemporary. Despite the plethora of new gin producers in the domestic market it was obvious the value-adding strategy still had legs. In October 2017, the business launched Strait Tasmanian Raspberry and Lemon Vodkas, Strait Tasmanian Strawberry Gin a month later, and Strait Tasmanian Cherry Vodka in February 2018. We had raspberry, lemon and cherry bottles screen printed in 2005, but at the time, couldn’t secure fruit because growers were letting second grade fruit drop to the floor, but now, due to poly tunnels and irrigation schemes the volume of secondary fruit has grown enormously. We bought 10 tonnes of cherries and two and a half tonnes each of strawberries and raspberries in 2017-18 with plans to increase that to 30 tonnes of each in the current season. That is critical to our mainland

expansion as we seek a definitive point of difference over our rivals and the ability to maintain supply. It will also open up export markets in South East Asia, Europe and the USA. We already have a prospective order for 3,500 cases from the USA for a unique new product that we currently have in research and development and they haven’t even tasted it. This means a new interim production facility due to be commissioned in January and capable of packaging 800 bottles an hour on Strait’s existing bottling line, prior to a further development in June 2019 when production will increase to at least 3,800 bottles per hour. It will be Tasmanian spirits production on an industrial scale, backed by access to 10,000 litres of spring water an hour for the next 50 years. The business is building the new facility on 13 hectares at York Town, where springs were first discovered in 1804, during the foundation of Australia’s third oldest colonial settlement. It gives the brand provenance, and combined with sloe berries from blackthorn hedging planted in 1817, provides significant points of difference. The interim facility will eventually be converted to freezer cold storage for fruit.

Q IS THERE A SPECIFIC TYPE OF SPIRIT THAT YOU ARE THE MOST WELL-KNOWN FOR? Premium gin, vodka and naturally flavoured versions with Tasmanian provenance. We produced the first premium vodkas and gin produced in Australia, the first commercially produced sloe gin in Australia, the first hazelnut gin in the world and first strawberry gin in Australia. We are also currently working on a hybrid fruit gin and a super-premium gin made from local botanicals originally discovered in 1804-5 in the neighbouring environment, close to the production and packaging plant.

Q HOW IMPORTANT IS IT FOR CRAFT DISTILLERS TO BE ALWAYS INNOVATING? If Strait didn’t innovate it would be sucked into the mainstream saturation of domestic brands meaning stagnancy and probable demise. But, new products also have to be commercial, with guaranteed supply of ingredients to ensure large volumes can be produced if they take off.

Q WHAT DO THE NEXT 12 MONTHS LOOK LIKE FOR STRAIT BRANDS? We are ready to become the largest Australian-owned producer of vodka and gin with weekly volumes rising from 24,000 bottles per week to 114,000/ week or around 5.5 million a year.

NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS NOVEMBER 2018 | 25

SHOPPER INSIGHTS

Craft beer

MERCHANDISING just got

serious ALASKAN BREWING OUTLETS RESEMBLE MINI DEPARTMENT STORES TO CAPITALISE ON TOURISM SPEND, WRITES NORRELLE GOLDRING.

his month I am bringing more inspiration from my recent monthlong trip to Alaska and the Yukon, this time in the form of the Alaskan Brewing Company. Its ‘main store’, one of two in Juneau, the water-bound capital of Alaska, came as something of a surprise. Mainly because most of the 100+ craft breweries in the USA I’ve been dragged into by my beer-geek partner over the past 10 years generally sport the same small ranges of t-shirts, hoodies, glassware and bottle openers as we see in craft breweries in Australia. You don’t generally see an entire store devoted to one craft beer brand’s merchandise, let alone two. I’ll give a quick background on Alaskan Brewing Company for context, before I get into the detail of their two-storey main store. Founded in 1986, Alaskan was the 67th brewing company in the USA (of a now 3000+ craft brewpubs and microbreweries), and is now the 19th largest craft brewery in the USA. It is the Great American Beer Festival’s most awarded craft brewery. So it’s not a microbrewery, it has both distribution reach and awareness in the ‘lower 48’ states. In Juneau the brewery cellar door is located out of town and has a reasonable range of merchandise, for a brewery. There is a small merchandise outlet on the wharf, and the main store is located on South Franklin St in the middle of the cruise ship tourist shopping zone. (In the summer, Juneau’s resident population of 33,000 is nearly doubled on a daily basis by tourists. During our stay the average daily number of cruise boats was five, disgorging daily tourists

numbering upwards of 20,000, some of whom would have heard of Alaskan Brewing before they got there). Some Alaskan Brewing Company apparel is also ranged in the Kroger-owned supercentre store chain Fred Meyer, albeit that’s for local rather than tourist shopping. The original store opened in 2009 and moved to its present South Franklin St location a couple of years ago. While the main store carries the usual t-shirts and hoodies, it’s the scale and scope of both apparel and other categories, all Alaskan Brewing Company branded, that differentiates it from other breweries. It is like walking into a monobranded souvenir shop. Apparel includes bike jerseys, tanks (singlets), checked flannel shirts (the unofficial uniform of Alaska for men and women, it seems), pyjamas, caps, beanies, and socks. Within categories there is also range, such as multiple colours and sizes of hoodies for individual beers. Drinking vessels include flasks, mugs, thermos, coloured plastic travelling cups, and a broad range of glassware. Beer transporting products include growlers, zip-up bottle and can stubby holders, insulated six-pack holders, and insulated tote bags. Man cave paraphernalia includes ‘historic’ wooden signs, tap handles, bar towels, and mounted bottle openers, as well as all the constituents required for home brewing including books, fermenters, and copper chillers. And then there is the pet range, including portable dog bowls, collars, and squeaky toys. (Note that one of Alaska most well-known beers is the Husky IPA). Other branded souvenir shop

26 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

style merchandise includes bottle openers, key chains, postcards, magnets and stickers. While the purist category manager in me would have liked to see all similar categories grouped together and segmented (eg t-shirts by women’s and men’s, then segmented by beer type), and perhaps some signage delineating women and men’s apparel (or perhaps it’s meant to be gender neutral?), from a retail experience point of view the random-appearing layout actually served to create a sense of discovery and the upstairs area facilitated this. The upstairs has a small area with the history of the brewing company. The store also offers a shuttle out to the brewery for $25 per person which includes a tasting paddle of four beers. Some of the slightly more adventurous cruise tourists availed themselves of this option while on their eight-hour-in-port turnarounds. The 20-something craft breweries we visited in the three weeks after Juneau saw a return to the usual one wall of apparel. If you get to Alaska, or Juneau in particular, this is definitely worth checking out.

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

PEOPLE

HUMAN RESOURCES

Shifting Rank

AMBER KING (L) SUE LAURITZ (R)

CHRIS BADDOCK

Directors, BrightSide

CEO OF ALM Metcash Metcash has appointed Chris Baddock as its new CEO of Liquor, commencing in 2019, following an extensive search for a successor to Scott Marshall. Marshall stepped down as CEO of Australian Liquor Marketers (ALM) in March this year and took up the role of CEO of the Metcash Supermarkets and Convenience division. Rod Pritchard has been acting as CEO of ALM since that time and will continue in this capacity until Baddock comes on board in 2019. Baddock is a well credentialed executive with more than 25 years of experience, many of those in the liquor industry. He is currently the Director of Pinnacle and Direct, which is part of Endeavour Drinks Group. Before that he spent 11 years with Lion, during which time he was the Managing Director of Fine Wine Partners, and held roles in Lion Wine and Tooheys Brewery. Metcash’s Group CEO, Jeff Adams, said that Baddock’s mix of experience positions him well to drive the continued growth of the Liquor business.

DRESSING FOR INTERVIEWS We are often asked by candidates what they should wear for job interviews. Mostly candidates have prepared their responses to potential interview questions, researched the company and thought about what they’re going to ask the interviewer, but do they know what they’re going to wear? While we work in an industry where a suit and tie or power suit are not the norm, it is rarely appropriate to ‘dress down’ for an interview, regardless of company dress code policy. Having said that, what you wear should be suitable to your industry and the company culture. The drinks industry is unique and it’s often seen as a fun and vibrant sector to work in, as a result people dress in a relatively relaxed style. Often sales people are out of the office visiting customers so their work attire tends to be smart yet comfortable. When it comes to job interviews our advice is to always over, rather than under dress. Do take into consideration who you’re meeting and where. If it’s an office-based meeting we advise male candidates to wear pants, suit jacket and no tie and for women it’s more flexible – smart pants or skirt, shirt and jacket. For meetings offsite the same formula can be applied. The general consensus among recruiters is that dressing to impress for that first job interview not only tells the interviewer you are serious about the job but also that you’re serious about yourself. Having said that there are always exceptions to this rule. A young Gen Y candidate interviewing for a sales rep role for a craft beer brand needs to look the part. Turning up in a suit when the role requires them to be calling on hipster venues isn’t appropriate. The candidate should meet the brief both in their skill set and ‘fit for brand’. Lastly, wear clothes that are comfortable so you are concentrating on what is being asked of you and not on the fact that your pants are cutting into your flesh or your bra strap is falling off your shoulder. If in doubt, do a full dress rehearsal before the interview and get a second opinion from a friend or family member. For all things sales and marketing please go to www.brightside.careers or call Sue Lauritz on 0403 063 128 or Amber King on 0404 023 944.

DAVID SEGRETO COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR, AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND Bacardi-Martini Australia Denis Brown, Bacardi’s Regional Vice President North Asia Pacific has confirmed the appointment of David Segreto as Commercial Director, Australia & New Zealand. With a career spanning over 20 years, Segreto will join Bacardi-Martini Australia directly from McWilliam’s Wines, where he has been since 2011, commencing firstly as Sales Director before taking on greater responsibilities as Regional Director Asia Pacific. Segreto’s earlier career started with Cadbury Schweppes before joining Diageo as a Regional Director GTR, based in both Sydney, then Singapore. These formative roles provided him strong foundations in customer relationship management, being a great team player and team leader, working within high profile companies with strong brand presence. Denis

Brown said, “We are delighted to secure the calibre of talent that David will bring to both this role and our business overall”. The rescoped role will see Segreto take on overall leadership of the Australian and New Zealand Commercial teams.

MARTIN HUDAK GLOBAL COFFEE AMBASSADOR Mr Black Mr Black Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur, has announced the appointment of its first Global Coffee Ambassador, Martin Hudak. This role will see Hudak focus on leading the company’s coffee mixology focus, and bridging communications between coffee drinkers, bars, restaurants, retailers, distributors, and press. Hudak previously worked as a senior bartender at The American Bar at The Savoy, London, and in 2017, became Champion at the 2017 World Coffee in Good Spirits competition. Tom Baker, Co-founder of Mr Black said, “Martin’s passion for coffee and mixology is absolutely contagious. His edge and understanding of coffee, spirits, bartenders, and baristas are second to none in the drinks industry. We’re delighted to have him join our mission to take craft coffee into the night.”

TIFFANI GRAYDON GLOBAL MARKETING DIRECTOR Pernod Ricard Winemakers Pernod Ricard Winemakers has appointed Tiffani Graydon as Global Marketing Director, New Zealand brands, based in Graham Street, Auckland. Graydon will rejoin the Pernod Ricard business from her role as General Manager Sales and Marketing with Yealands Wine Group. Prior to this role, she was Marketing Director for Pernod Ricard New Zealand, focused on the domestic wine and spirits business. In her new role, Graydon will drive the global brand strategy and delivery for Pernod Ricard Winemaker’s New Zealand origin brands – Brancott Estate, Stoneleigh and Church Road. Graydon brings more than 20 years’ experience within the wine and spirits industry to the role.

ANNOUNCE YOUR NEWEST STAFF

28 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

Simply send the details of your newest staff member to djackson@intermedia.com.au along with a high-res headshot and share the news of your latest appointment.

MARKETING ALCOHOL RESPONSIBLY

n September, the International Alliance for Responsible Drinking (IARD) and the world’s largest digital platforms; Facebook, Snapchat, Twitter and YouTube strengthened their resolve to tackle harmful consumption and issued a joint communique pledging to work together to develop responsible standards in relation to alcohol advertising. The co-signed communique at global level will allow IARD, of which ABA is a member, to work with the platforms to develop not only standards, but also discuss other ways to ensure advertisements meet their relevant codes, including functionality. This commitment formalises much of the work being done globally to ensure the industry upholds the highest standards in its advertising and that advertisements do not target minors. Alcohol consumption is on a long-term decline in Australia with the apparent consumption of pure alcohol per capita at its lowest levels since the 1960’s. Underage and problem drinking are also declining, yet at the same time alcohol advertising has expanded onto digital mediums, which are now part of our everyday lives. The positive trends in consumption behaviours in the context of this expansion shows the effectiveness of the Alcoholic Beverages Advertising Code (ABAC) Scheme in adapting to changing trends and ensuring industry compliance.

CONTRIBUTOR’S

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ABAC has applied its regulations to digital media for some time and has done so with co-operation from the industry. In the past year, of all complaints lodged with the Advertising Standards Bureau, just two per cent related to alcohol. Alcohol companies advertise to influence brand choice and garner market share among adults of legal drinking age. The intention with digital marketing is the same, and just as the ABAC code stipulates, all talent in a TV or print advertisement must be over 25 as must be influencers and the talent in digital posts. In addition to the ABAC scheme, there are a number of measures in place to ensure minors are not able to purchase underage. These include responsible service campaigns such as ID Under 25 and Don’t Buy For Them and DrinkWise campaigns such as Kids Absorb Your Drinking. The development of standards between the industry and the social media platforms will only strengthen these efforts to reduce underage consumption and ensure responsible advertising practices across the board. Next time you talk to your local members, remind them about the responsible way alcohol is marketed in Australia across all platforms and the positive downward trends we’re seeing in harmful alcohol consumption.

FERGUS TAYLOR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ABA Fergus Taylor is the Executive Director of national alcohol beverages pan-industry body, Alcohol Beverage Australia. Before joining the industry he worked in senior roles for state government ministerial offices, national and international media organisations and as a communications and stakeholder engagement consultant.

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NZ WINE RECORDS 23RD YEAR OF EXPORT GROWTH

he latest New Zealand Winegrowers annual report statistics indicate that New Zealand wine is celebrating its 23rd consecutive year of export growth. Export value rose by 2.5 per cent in June year end 2018, and is now valued at $1.7 billion. The USA continues to be New Zealand wine’s largest market with more than $500 million in exports, followed by the UK and Australia with $387 and $367 million in exports respectively.

CONTRIBUTOR’S

PANEL Escarpment Vineyard, Martinborough

VINTAGE 2018 The 2.5 per cent increase comes despite export growth having been muted over the past year, due to supply constraints. In the coming year, New Zealand Winegrowers predicts export growth will continue to be muted given the vintage 2018 was smaller than anticipated. Despite this, the warm summer and favourable growing conditions benefited New Zealand’s winegrowing regions producing fruit with good ripeness and offering confidence that vintage 2018 will deliver the exciting flavour profiles for which cool climate New Zealand wines are renowned. Pinot Noir and Merlot each recorded significant production increases under good conditions, which bodes well for New Zealand’s red wines over the coming years. The country’s productive vineyard area continues to grow, increasing by an additional two per cent to reach 37,969 hectares. Sauvignon Blanc represents just over 60 per cent of New Zealand producing vineyard area (23,102 hectares), followed by Pinot Noir 15 per cent (5,653), Chardonnay eight per cent (3,163) and Pinot Gris six per cent (2,447). Vines planted but not yet producing indicate vineyard area growth of just over one per cent for each of the next two years.

A LEGACY OF SUSTAINABILITY New Zealand has steadily built a reputation for consistent quality; wine that is approachable, distinctive and noteworthy; and for a comprehensive commitment to sustainability. The Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand (SWNZ) programme continues to be a world leading initiative for the wine industry and was awarded with the Green Initiative of the Year at The Drinks Business Green Awards in London. In a highly contested category of the most ethical and environmentally friendly companies in wines, beers and spirits, SWNZ was recognised for a programme that encompassed the best of efficient and effective sustainable.

PROTECTING NEW ZEALAND’S REGIONAL ORIGINS Since the Geographical Indications (Wine and Spirits) Act 2006 came into force in July 2017, 18 priority New Zealand wine regions have applied to register their Geographical Indications (GI). As a result, New Zealand has joined the ranks of countries that use wine GIs to give consumers confidence in the regional wine brand and is a significant step forward for the sector, providing international safeguards for New Zealand’s geographic names.

AT A GLANCE • Total wine exports in 2018 were 255,093 million litres with an average price of $6.68/litre. • Australia is New Zealand wine’s third largest export market with exports to Australia reaching 56 million litres valued at NZ$367 million for the year to the end of June 2018. • The national vineyard now covers 37,969 ha, up by 2.8 per cent with Marlborough accounting for 75 per cent of that increase. • The average yield of grapes per hectare in 2018 was 11.1 tonnes, up from 10.7 tonnes. • Total number of wine producers increased three per cent to 697. The 2018 Annual Report can be accessed at nzwine.com. NOTE: All dollar figures represented are in New Zealand dollars.

NATALIE GRACE, MARKETING MANAGER – AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND WINEGROWERS New Zealand Winegrowers is the national organisation for the country’s grape and wine sector. As the local representative for the organisation in Australia, Natalie is responsible for all Australia market activity including the education and events programme, visiting media and trade and market insights. Prior to her appointment in 2013, Natalie was the Communications Manager for New Zealand winery Craggy Range based in the Hawke’s Bay.

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CHAMPAGNE AND SPARKLING ON THE RISE FOR AUSTRALIANS

ustralia is one of the fastest growing markets for Champagne in the world. According to the International Wine and Spirits Record (IWSR), between 2012 and 2017, the volume of Champagne sales in Australia increased by 11 per cent per annum. In comparison, sales in the two biggest Champagne markets have been declining; by two per cent per annum in France and by three per cent per annum in the United Kingdom. Australia is now the eighth largest Champagne market in the world. In contrast, Australia is the 10th largest market for table wines. The latest off-trade figures from IRI Market Edge show that while Champagne is growing, it is still a relatively small sub-category of the market for sparkling wine in Australia. In the year ended 19 August 2018, Champagne accounted for a nine per cent volume share and 31 per cent value share of the sparkling market. The higher value share reflects the much higher average price paid for Champagne. IRI Market Edge shows that the average price paid for

Champagne was $56 per bottle compared to $12 per bottle for other sparkling wines. The latest IRI Market Edge figures show some positive signs for Australian sparkling wine sales in the domestic off-trade market, with volume growing by two per cent and value by six per cent. In the last three years, the average price paid for Australian sparkling wine increased from $10.51 per bottle to $11.14. Driving the growth in the Australian sparkling wine category has been strong increases from Prosecco at $15-$19.99 per bottle and at $20$29.99 per bottle, and sparkling wines from Tasmania and the Adelaide Hills. Research just released by Wine Intelligence shows that there are 8.8 million people who drink sparkling wine in Australia at least once a year and 5.7 million who drink it at least monthly. Sparkling wine is more popular with females, with 55 per cent of sparkling drinkers being female and 45 per cent male. The Wine Intelligence report also shows that younger drinkers are showing more interest in

CONTRIBUTORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

PANEL

sparkling wine and are more experimental than older consumers. Compared to older consumers, a higher proportion of consumers under the age of 35 have a strong interest in sparkling wine and think it is important to their lifestyle. Younger consumers are also less budget conscious when it comes to sparkling wine. This may be a factor in the increase in the average price paid for Australian sparkling wine in the last three years. Another interesting insight from the Wine Intelligence research is that Australian sparkling wine is associated by more drinkers with being a good drink for celebrations (58 per cent) and good value (55 per cent). In comparison, while drinkers associate Champagne with celebrating (56 per cent), a very small proportion (17 per cent) sees Champagne as being good value for money. But in terms of quality perceptions, Australian sparkling wine trails Champagne. Among sparkling wine drinkers, 33 per cent indicated that they believed Australian sparkling wine was of high or very high quality compared to 52 per cent for Champagne.

PETER BAILEY, MANAGER â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MARKET INSIGHTS, WINE AUSTRALIA As Manager, Market Insights, Peter leads a team that keeps the Australian wine sector informed through the collection, presentation and dissemination of global wine sector insights. Peter joined Wine Australia as Senior Analyst in 2006 and was promoted to the senior management team in 2010. Prior to joining the wine sector he spent a decade in the Australian energy industry, his last role being Manager, Commercial Analysis at Origin Energy.

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WINE NEWS

MATEUS LAUNCHES NEW LOOK FOR SUMMER

YELLOWGLEN LAUNCHES SUNSET SPRITZ RANGE Yellowglen has launched a new spritz range, Sunset Spritz, featuring fruit infusions with a gentle spritz, and are now available in time for summer. The range features the Sunset Spritz Spritzed Rosé infused with wild berries, and Sunset Spritz Chardonnay Pinot Noir and Prosecco infused with elderflower and lime. Clive Coleman, Yellowglen’s Regional Director said: “Yellowglen’s Sunset Spritz range is an exciting new offering in the Australian market. Lighter in alcohol, this refreshing sparkling does not compromise on taste. Sophisticated, stylish and approachable, both infusions capture the essence of summer and celebration. “We’re thrilled to be launching Yellowglen’s brand new Sunset Spritz ahead of summer, where consumers can enjoy a refreshing glass and a good time among friends.” The Yellowglen Sunset Spritz range is available now from leading retailers nationwide, with both styles carrying a $14.99 RRP.

CELLARMASTERS LAUNCHES HALF BOTTLE RANGE Cellarmasters has said it is looking to help consumers avoid unnecessary waste with the launch of a range of half size wine bottles, which will cater to couples who have different palates. In a recent survey Cellarmasters discovered that 41 per cent of wine drinkers who were in a relationship said they don’t share the same taste in wine as their partner. The retailer said it also expects the range to appeal to single households, which according to the 2016 Census, are increasing. “Even though your personalities may match, your palates might not. The 375ml bottle allows you both to enjoy the wine you like the most, instead of one of you always having to compromise,” said Joe Armstrong, Head of Wine at Cellarmasters. “If you open a full bottle of wine you should, as most wine connoisseurs know, ideally drink it within a few days to avoid the worst effects of oxidation,” he added. “The 375ml range is the perfect solution to avoid unnecessary waste.” The 375ml range includes the most popular varieties among Australian consumers; Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris, and prices range from $6.50 per bottle to $12.99 per bottle. The half wine bottles are part of a global trend, with supermarkets like Asda and Waitrose in the UK also having launched 375ml ranges.

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Mateus Rosé has launched a new look for summer in a bid to connect the wine with a new generation of consumers. The new bottle design has proved successful in global test markets, where feedback has been that the new iteration offers a more contemporary and premium range. Mateus is distributed in Australia by McWilliam’s Wines Group and Head of Marketing, Sarah Nichols, said: “While Mateus was a wine many of us growing up in the 70’s and 80’s remembers with fondness, its fresh, fruity and elegant taste profile is as relevant now as it ever was. “Our Australian millennial audience have a great affinity with the brand and what it offers their drinking occasions. We feel that this sleek new packaging will not only make the brand more relevant to them (stylistically) but also bring long-time fans along with the brand to make their occasions all the more elegant.” Mateus, a finalist in the 2018 Australian Liquor Industry Awards Rosé Wine category, remains popular in a market that is focused on a bone-dry Rosé style. “Mateus has consistently been one of the top performing Rosé for volume in the Australian market for over 20 years,” Nichols added. “Consumers are showing with their shopping dollars that the fruit driven style of Rosé is not off their agenda. A wine like Mateus is easy drinking, approachable and diverse making it the perfect style for the new wave of wine creationism (cocktails, spritzes etc) a prospect we are really excited about sharing with a new audience just in time for summer.” The new bottle design is described as an elegant new take on the iconic cantil bottle shape that Mateus is famous for and helps to make the brand more relevant to a new millennial audience.

WINE NEWS

CHÂTEAU TANUNDA SIGNS DISTRIBUTION DEAL

TRENTHAM ESTATE CELEBRATES 30 YEARS Trentham Estate, the family-owned Murray Darling winery is celebrating 30 years operating its winery, restaurant and cellar door. Founded by brothers Anthony and Patrick Murphy along with Anthony’s wife Nola, the winery stills sees its three co-founders very active in its day-to-day operations, and Patrick still has a passion for creating a product enjoyed by many. “Being able to create something that people genuinely enjoy and that contributes to great experiences and memories is incredibly satisfying,” the Director and Vineyard Manager said. Over its 30 years Trentham has expanded from its first crush to a boutique, state-of-theart feature handling some 5,000 tonnes of premium varietal fruit each vintage. Today, the company distributes domestically and globally with Trentham holding a strong position in both markets. Today Trentham produces popular wines, while the cellar door and restaurant have developed into an impressive riverside destination where the tradition of quality food, wine and customer service continues. Reflecting on 30 years in the business, Managing Director and Chief Winemaker, Anthony, said: “The Trentham experience has been exciting, fun, hard work, satisfying and well worth the journey.” While Trentham has won a large number of trophies and medals over its 30 years, the Murphy’s said the most memorable award was the Trophy for Shiraz at the 2008 International Wine and Spirit Competition for the 2005 Heathcote Shiraz.

Barossa Valley winemaker Château Tanunda has signed a distribution agreement with Crush Fine Wines (CFW), who will now distribute the brand in the on- and off-premise across Australia, excluding the ACT. The deal is part of Château Tanunda’s strategy under Managing Director Michelle Geber, who is looking to build domestic distribution while building on the international reputation of the brand, in particular the Grand Barossa range. Geber said she was delighted that Château Tanunda would now have CFW as its distribution partner. “We’re looking forward to growing our domestic sales and unlocking the next chapter of the Château Tanunda story in this new partnership with Crush,” she said. “Together we will leverage the international success of our Grand Barossa brand nationally and build on the presence of our luxury wines, including Single Vineyard, Terroirs of the Barossa, Old Vine Expressions and the pinnacle of winemaking at the Château; ‘The Everest’ wines’.” CFW currently works with more than 5000 restaurants, cafés, bars, retailers and hotels across Australia and currently represents a number of family-owned boutique wineries. Managing Director of Crush Wines Matt Schmidt was keen to highlight the range of wines to the distributor’s partners. “Having grown up in the Barossa, I’ve always had a passion for the great wines the Barossa can produce, and Château Tanunda is a true icon of not just the Barossa, but the Australian wine industry. “With the Château’s luxury range gaining such international recognition our team of fantastic people are really looking forward to showcasing these great wines with some of the finest restaurants and fine wine retailers in Australia.” The highly anticipated new releases of the ‘Old Vine Expressions’ range were released on 16 October, comprising 2015 150 Year Old Vines 1858 Field Blend, 2018 150 Year Old Vines Semillon, 2015 100 Year Old Vines Shiraz, 2016 50 Year Old Vines Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon.

GOT SOME EXCITING WINE NEWS? Send your news and a high resolution image to Deborah Jackson National Liquor News djackson@intermedia.com.au

NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS NOVEMBER 2018 | 33

WINE NEWS

ED CARR RECEIVES LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD House of Arras Winemaker Ed Carr was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships for his contribution to the development and success of the sparkling wine industry. Carr was the only non-champenois winemaker to receive the award; an important recognition of the quality of wines from the House of Arras and its proven world-class credentials. Carr said it was a great honour to receive the award amongst his peers at the ceremony in London. “Getting up on stage to accept this particular award is extremely special because to me, it represents the pinnacle of recognition for our wine quality that we could scarcely envisage back in 1995. Hence why this is so immensely gratifying and exciting,” said Carr. House of Arras was started in 1995 as a project to develop a world-class Australian sparkling wine. By 1998, it was decided that fruit for these wines would be sourced entirely from Tasmania. Over the past 23 years, this concept has evolved to a range of traditional method sparkling wines based on the concepts of Tasmanian origin and meticulous winemaking

that includes extensive maturation on yeast lees. “As we have progressed on this journey with House of Arras, we became increasingly amazed at the longevity of the wines, and are now at a point where we can fully express this age with our current release labels. “Personally, it is extremely satisfying to craft such premium wines and I look forward to releasing future wines which will further express our ever growing resource and expertise of sparkling winemaking,” said Carr. Carr is Australia’s most decorated sparkling winemaker with more than 34 years’ experience in the Australian wine industry. Starting at Accolade Wines in 1994, his unmatched expertise in the Australian sparkling wine scene has resulted in the highest accolades at both domestic and international wine competitions. Since its inception, House of Arras has won 86 trophies and 225 gold medals on the wine show circuit. He has also been crowned Winemaker of the Year twice; once by Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine and the Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology. Tom Stevenson, Founder and Judge of the Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships gave out nine Lifetime Achievement Awards last night and praised

TASMANIAN WINE SECTOR EYES GLOBAL GROWTH The Tasmanian Government has pledged $600,000 in funding to Wine Tasmania over the next four years to help drive the value and global reputation of Tasmanian Wine and its associated tourism. Wine Tasmania’s CEO Sheralee Davies has welcomed the Government’s support and said that it will help the State to drive the global demand for its wines. “The Tasmanian wine sector conservatively contributes $115 million annually to the state’s economy, placing it in the state’s top 10 sectors. It has experienced strong and steady growth over many years, across vineyards, wineries and cellar door/wine tourism offerings,” Davies said. “The Tasmanian wine sector has deliberately focused on growing demand for our high quality wines, which has generated growth in wine supply. This has contributed to Tasmania’s position as one of the highest value wine regions, and it is critical that we continue to drive global demand for Tasmania’s wines.” Currently Tasmania produces just 0.91 per cent of Australia’s total wine grapes, but represents 4.37 per cent of the value and Davies added that the funding will help with growing recognition and tourism of Tasmania’s wines. “The Tasmanian Government support will facilitate the Tasmanian wine sector growing its differentiated reputation and value in key markets and driving high value visitation to the state’s cellar doors,” she said. Currently 95 per cent of Tasmania’s wine is sold domestically and Wine Tasmania said that this will continue to be a major focus of promotional and wine tourism activities. In addition the funding means that there will be an expanded focus on activities in key international markets of the United Kingdom, United States of America and Hong Kong. Wine Tasmania said that these markets have been identified as those offering the greatest potential outcomes for Tasmania and its wine producers in terms of value per litre of wine, tourism numbers and yields and broader Tasmanian export success and opportunities.

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each and every winner for their efforts, dedication and sheer brilliance. In addition to Carr, the other recipients were Thierry Roset of Champagne Charles Heidsieck; the late Michel Salgues, Sparkling Wine Consultant; Thierry Gasco of Champagne Pommery; Jean-Paul Gandon of Champagne Lanson; Hervé Deschamps of Maison PerrierJouet; Richard Geoffroy of Champagne Dom Perignon; Loïc Dupont of Champagne Taittinger; and François Domi of Champagne Billecart-Salmon.

POOLEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ROCK ICONIC WINES

E BR A T I N

30 L CE

YEARS

CONTACT AGNEW WINES FOR CURRENT AND MUSEUM RELEASES AGNEW WINES.COM.AU

SALES@AGNEW WINES.COM.AU

02 4998 6776

Wine Talks IN THE FIRST EDITION OF WINE TALKS WE CHAT WITH WINGARA WINE GROUP ABOUT LA LA LAND AND WE CELEBRATE SOME PRETTY EXCITING BIRTHDAYS WITH POOLEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ROCK TURNING 30 AND DE BORTOLI WINES TURNING 90.

WINE TALKS

MILLENNIALS GO GAGA FOR LA LA LAND LA LA LAND IS BREAKING DOWN THE TRADITIONAL ASPECT OF WINE PAIRING AND CREATING FUN AND APPROACHABLE WINES TO CAPTURE THE MILLENNIAL MARKET, AS DEB JACKSON DISCOVERS.

a La Land is an eclectic collection of new generation wines aimed at millennial drinkers and offering retailers an on trend and intriguing option that will stand out on shelf. The range is all vegan friendly and crafted with grape varietals slightly different to the norm – Tempranillo, Malbec, Garnacha, Vermentino, Pinot Gris and a pale, dry Rosé. Marketing Manager Annelie Mitchell said that millennials are looking for fun and approachable wines so the aim of La La Land is to build on that. “Millennials are adding wine into their lives on their own terms – they’re not as interested in the traditional aspect of wine pairing but want fun and approachable wine for social occasions,” she said. More and more, millennials are being recognised as one of the most powerful groups of consumers, but why is that? Well not only is this techsavvy bunch one of the largest generations of shoppers, larger even than the baby boomers, but they have also become powerful trendsetters with the advent of social media.

SO HOW DO WE ENGAGE MILLENNIALS? Sean Shortt, the Sales and Marketing Director for La La Land Wines says that millennials want to be challenged and intrigued. “Understanding what millennials appreciate most about wine drinking will empower retailers to engage with this growing demographic who are interested in experimenting and challenging their palates.” He said with that in mind, the La La Land range includes “interesting and intriguing varietals” that “showcase something different and enable new wine drinking experiences”.

The La La Land winemaking team recognised the emerging trend in lesser known retail varieties nearly five years ago and planted various Mediterranean varietals well suited to the Murray Darling wine region in North West Victoria. The most recent of these varietals to be added to the range are the Garnacha and Vermentino. The La La Land labels are also designed to be non-traditional and communicate enjoyment and fun. Mitchell explains that the aim was to create a distinctive brand representing a fantasy world in a striking way. “The wine labels all have their own Alice in Wonderland inspired theme with a subtle Spanish twist to convey the origins of the company owners, plus an element of surrealism and escapism to appeal to our target audience. “The wine brand was also around before the La La Land movie was released – but it has certainly helped with brand awareness,” she said. “La La Land wines are primarily targeted at millennials. Known for their interesting and unique approach to life, in Australia, this demographic is adopting wine at a faster rate than any other generation. They tend to be experimental, rebellious and crave new experiences. “Wine is now an affordable luxury, plus with the increase of imported wines in recent years, millennials are becoming more adventurous in their wine choices and more willing to try previously unknown varietals such as Malbec, Grenache and Vermentino.” So as Sales and Marketing Director Shortt says, “With an LUC of $10.24, there is excellent opportunity for good margin (for retailers). And rapidly increasingly distribution and sales indicate that retailers recognise this”.

NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS NOVEMBER 2018 | 37

WINE TALKS

POOLE’S ROCK CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF ICONIC WINES

THIS YEAR POOLE’S ROCK IS CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF WINEMAKING, SO DEB JACKSON CAUGHT UP WITH CHIEF WINEMAKER JEFF BYRNE TO HEAR HOW THE BRAND WOULD BE CELEBRATING.

unter Valley winery Poole’s Rock is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and marking the occasion with the special release of a 2014 Premiere Blanc de Blanc. Poole’s Rock was established in 1988 by the late David Clarke OAM. Upon his passing, the brand and winery in Pokolbin (Hunter Valley, NSW) were acquired by the family-owned and operated Agnew Wines in 2011, who already owned the neighbouring historic Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard. The Poole’s Rock label is headed by Jeff Byrne, who was promoted to Chief Winemaker for Agnew Wines in 2012. Byrne told National Liquor News that he feels fortunate to be contributing to the history of great wines under the Poole’s Rock label. “It’s been a privilege to head up the winemaking team for Poole’s Rock for the last six years. I’m particularly proud of a few small direction changes we’ve made to highlight what special vineyard assets we have as a company, which we’ve been implementing since 2014 such as introducing our ‘Post Office’ Shiraz off our historic winery block, ‘Centenary’ Shiraz from our Shiraz vines older than 100 years and our Single Barrel Chardonnay, simply our best 500L barrel in the winery, to name a few.”

Speaking of the special release 2014 Premiere Blanc de Blanc, Byrne said that feedback from the trade has been very positive since it launched in October, so it will likely become a permanent part of the Poole’s Rock range. “We’ve been long supporters of the cool climate wine region of Orange and have been making sparkling wines from there for over 10 years now. The Chardonnay we use for our Blanc de Blanc is sourced from a high altitude vineyard of approximately 950m, made in the traditional way, bottle fermented and left on tirage for four years to add complexity and creaminess,” he said. “We have had a very positive response from both retailers and consumers alike so far, so yes we are intending for it to be permanent and think it nicely complements the existing Poole’s Rock range.” In a crowded wine market, we asked Byrne why Poole’s Rock should be top of mind for retailers, and he summed it up perfectly. “The wines are of exceptional quality for the price point and highlight great regions and diversity from across Australia. Poole’s Rock is not limited to one region and so we’ve have had great success finding small pockets of great wines from premier wines regions, that’s why we believe we’ve made some iconic wines.”

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JEFF BYRNE’S FIVE KEY SELLING POINTS OF POOLE’S ROCK WINES: 1. During its 30 years, the Poole’s Rock label has become iconic and well-known for not only its exceptional quality, but also the success stories and back-to-back awards year after year many of its wines have received. 2. Strong 30 year history, established by in 1988 by the late David Clarke OAM. Upon his passing, the brand and winery in Pokolbin (Hunter Valley, NSW) were acquired by the family-owned and operated Agnew Wines in 2011, who already owned the neighbouring historic Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard. 3. ‘Best of region’ philosophy, sourcing the best grapes from highly regarded wine regions around Australia. 4. A majority of the Poole’s Rock wines are estate grown. We have turned our focus to single vineyard parcels as we’re able to control the vineyards and that’s where we see our brand improving. 5. Premium brand positioning, yet the wines are great value and quality for money with our Premiere range retailing at $40 RRP, especially in contrast to comparable wines currently in market.

Three generations of De Bortoli’s: L-R Sally, Eola (Cummins), Leanne, Darren, Emeri and Kate De Bortoli

WINE TALKS

DE BORTOLI CELEBRATES ITS 90TH MILESTONE TO MARK THE 90TH MILESTONE, THE DE BORTOLI FAMILY HAS RELEASED A LIMITED EDITION 20-YEAR-OLD BLACK NOBLE, AS DEB JACKSON REPORTS.

inety years ago, when Vittorio De Bortoli turned unwanted Shiraz grapes into wine for family and friends, little did he know what he was creating. He had just purchased a fruit farm near Griffith in the NSW Riverina region, a few years after emigrating from war-torn Northern Italy with dreams of building a better life and was soon joined by his fiancé Giuseppina. Now, 90 years on, De Bortoli Family Winemakers is in the hands of the third and fourth generation of De Bortoli’s and is operating estates across five Australian winemaking regions in NSW and Victoria. Sustainability is key to their philosophy of leaving a positive legacy for future generations. Over the past 12 years, De Bortoli has led the industry with its quest to become a zero-waste winery, receiving numerous awards and accolades for their work on wise water management, energy efficiency and improved waste management. With a vision for a future where great wine and a healthy environment can be enjoyed by everyone, they are also embarking on an undertaking to convert 10 to 15 per cent of the Riverina vineyards to organic in five years. Managing Director and third generation family member, Darren De Bortoli, says that he is proud to be carrying on his grandfather Vittorio’s legacy. “Our family is incredibly proud to be carrying on the work of our grandfather Vittorio and our father Deen in pushing the

boundaries of winemaking to produce premium wines that are enjoyable to everyone and which our business is known for,” he says. To commemorate the 90 year milestone, De Bortoli has released a special limited edition of Black Noble, the world’s only fortified made from botrytis grapes.

“Our family is incredibly proud to be carrying on the work of our grandfather Vittorio and our father Deen in pushing the boundaries of winemaking to produce premium wines that are enjoyable to everyone and which our business is known for,” Darren De Bortoli Black Noble was first created Darren De Bortoli in 1998, inspired by a wine his grandfather Vittorio produced in the 1930s. Black Noble has woven together both the family and the variety’s history, as it is crafted from the same botrytised Semillon grapes harvested for the iconic Noble One,

which was developed by Darren and his father Deen in 1982. Today one of the world’s most awarded wines, Noble One has proven that luxuriously sweet and hugely expensive French Sauternes-style dessert wines can be made under Australia’s much harsher climatic conditions. “From our iconic Noble One, which is now one of the world’s most awarded wines, to igniting Australia’s love of pale, dry rosé with the Rosé Revolution, and producing exciting new wine styles for the modern adventurous wine drinker, we are committed to fulfilling their legacy to ensure De Bortoli Wines remains at the forefront of winemaking innovation,” says Darren. The limited edition Black Noble is crafted from parcels of wine with an average blended age of 20 years in barrels. A parcel of the most botrytised Semillon grapes at approximately 20 to 22 Baume is selected to produce the Black Noble’s intense and ripe botrytis flavours. De Bortoli has been setting aside portions of these parcels since 1982, with a selection of exceptional quality blended to deliver structure, strength and complexity in this limited edition. A little fermentation occurs before fortification when a grape spirit is added to inhibit further fermentation. The wine is then clarified, and a touch of brandy is added for extra complexity before being transferred into used Noble One barriques. The De Bortoli 90th Anniversary limited edition Black Noble retails for $90 and is available nationally.

NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS NOVEMBER 2018 | 39

CHRISTMAS RETAILING

CHRISTMAS IS WITHOUT A DOUBT THE BUSIEST TRADING PERIOD FOR LIQUOR RETAILERS SO TO HELP TAKE THE PRESSURE OFF WE’VE COMPILED A LIST OF WHAT WILL BE ON TREND THIS FESTIVE SEASON.

1. RIUNITE PROSECCO

Christmas is known for spending time with loved ones, and Riunite’s tagline is appropriately ‘This is R moment to Riunite’. Recently named Prosecco of The Year and taking out gold at the Melbourne International Wine Competition, Riunite is rich with Italian heritage, beginning when a small group of wine producers came together to explore a shared passion for making great wine. Today, Riunite is produced by Italy’s largest exporter of Italian wines. Prosecco consumption is growing at 46 per cent and Riunite is a fine example of why. It’s light, fresh and clean with notes of crisp apples and pears. RRP: $16.99 Distributed by: Kollaras & Co

2. TOVARITCH VODKA Tovaritch is famously known for being Russia’s most awarded vodka, with The Drinks Business recently reporting that it’s on track for its 105th award. Gluten free, organic and non-GMO, Tovaritch has been a hit with the independent trade. The vodka was also listed as a finalist in the Best Light Spirit of the Year category at the Australian Liquor Industry Awards (ALIA). Eugenio Litta Modignani, CEO of Tovaritch commented, “These organisations signify our brand’s ever-growing international recognition as a top-quality vodka”. RRP: $39.99 Distributed by: Kollaras & Co

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CHRISTMAS RETAILING

3. LANSON PÈRE ET FILS BRUT NV

4. MATSO’S MANGO BEER

Lanson Père et Fils NV Brut was named after the name of the House when it was originally founded in 1760, and is the new release available exclusively through the on-premise and selected independent wine stores. Faithful to the House style this cuvée is produced according to the traditional winemaking method privileging wines with no malolactic fermentation, to keep natural, fruity, mouth-watering flavours with an exceptional freshness. Lanson Père et Fils is an enriched evolution of the classic Lanson Black Label, composed of 50 per cent Pinot Noir, 35 per cent Chardonnay, 15 per cent Pinot Meunier, 100 crus among which half are Grands and Premiers crus and minimum 30 per cent of reserve wines from 10 different vintages, aged four to five years on lees and a dosage of 7g/L.

Matso’s Mango Beer is the perfect match for an Australian summer. It combines full fruit aromas with a sweet dryness. It’s easy drinking and balanced, with a refreshing hint of mango and perfect for summer. With Matso’s recently acquired by Gage Roads Brewing Co and represented by its Good Drinks sales and marketing team, the brand will be given a significant national marketing push this summer – helping promote the stock in your store.

RRP: $23.99 per six-pack Distributed by: Good Drinks

RRP: $65 Distributed by: Lanson

5. ABSOLUT DROP LIMITED EDITION BOTTLE

Love is the most powerful force in the world. Absolut’s latest campaign celebrates the power that love has, to create a more open world and make a real difference to people’s lives, especially in places where hate-speech and intolerance is widespread. This was the inspiration behind the Absolut Drop limited edition bottle, a part of the Create a Better Tomorrow campaign. The bottle design contains ink taken from hate signs around the world, repurposed to spread a message that radiates positivity. The limited edition bottle is available now in two colourways from leading liquor retailers. RRP: $59.99 per 700ml bottle Distributed by: Pernod Ricard Australia

6 6. KAHLÚA ORIGINAL COFFEE LIQUEUR

7. MUMM CORDON ROUGE Mumm Cordon Rouge is Australia’s number one Champagne and has unveiled a brand-new look paying tribute to the iconic ‘Red Sash’. Mumm’s contemporary new design makes it the perfect Champagne to celebrate with loved ones through the Christmas season.

Originating in Mexico, Kahlúa has become the number one selling coffee liqueur in the world. Kahlúa Original Coffee Liqueur is the hero ingredient in one of Australia’s favourite cocktails; the Espresso Martini. And it’s no surprise that Australia’s love of the Espresso Martini spikes over the Christmas holiday season. Kahlúa Original Coffee Liqueur is available now from leading liquor retailers. RRP: $31.99 per 700ml bottle Distributed by: Pernod Ricard Australia

RRP: $81.99 per 750ml bottle Distributed by: Pernod Ricard Australia

NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS NOVEMBER 2018 | 41

CHRISTMAS RETAILING

8. JACK DANIEL’S NO.27 GOLD

The Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel expression from the Jack Daniel Distillery is the only offering from the distillery that is bottled from a single cask and is bottled at a higher presentation proof. It is again an opportunity to trade up existing Jack Daniel’s drinkers and reward themselves or others going into the important gifting period, with a unique expression. The premium American whiskey category is booming within Australia and the upcoming festive period is the perfect opportunity to capitalise on this trend. RRP: $90 per 700ml bottle Distributed by: Brown-Forman

The super-premium glass Bourbon category is growing as American whiskey in particular is seeing increased interest and trade-up. The Jack Daniel’s No.27 Gold is a unique offering from the Jack Daniel Distillery and is one of only two expressions from the distillery that is mellowed through the charcoal twice, and is the only one to see finishing in a maple wood barrel as part of a special maturation process particular to this expression. It allows the opportunity to trade up existing Jack Daniel’s drinkers and is the perfect gifting solution coming into the festive period. RRP: $150 per 700ml bottle Distributed by: Brown-Forman

9. JACK DANIEL’S SINGLE BARREL

10. JACK DANIEL’S & GINGER BEER Jack Daniel’s and Ginger Beer is presenting a new alternative in the RTD space with a lighter, more refreshing flavour offering that launched right at the start of the warmer months across the country. Consumer trends in soft drinks and mixers is leaning towards drier mixers versus sweet, and we are seeing non-cola mixers driving sustained growth in the category. Jack Daniel’s & Ginger Beer mixes Tennessee whiskey with crisp ginger beer with and a squeeze of citrus, and will help drive recruitment to the category and open up new drinking occasions for consumers. RRP: $22 per four-pack Distributed by: Brown-Forman

12 12. GINGLE BELLS The Wild Hibiscus Flower Company has come up with the perfect way to bring the holiday spirit to every event and gift exchange. Its newest specialty product ‘Gingle Bells’ is a gift set of six floral gin baubles, guaranteed to spread the Christmas joy in the form of a unique gift, celebratory cocktail or beautiful party decoration. The eye-catching baubles are filled with Australian Dry Gin sourced from master distiller Reg Papps, who was named one of the top five gin distillers in the world at the 2017 World Gin Awards in London. The gin is then infused with six different natural botanicals for a distinctive flavour and colour. The gift set includes two 54ml baubles at 37 per cent alcohol volume and four 50ml baubles at 40 per cent alcohol volume. RRP: $79 Distributed by: Wild Hibiscus Brewing Company

42 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

11. D’ARENBERG THE PEPPERMINT PADDOCK The Peppermint Paddock Chambourcin Shiraz Graciano NV is a refreshing style with a psychedelic purple hue that will get any party started. The palate is full and fresh, slightly sweet, showing strong flavours of mint, black fruits and Christmas spice. RRP: $28 Distributed by: D’Arenberg

JACK DANIEL’S OLD NO.7, GENTLEMAN JACK, JACK DANIEL’S NO.27 GOLD 40% ABV (80 PROOF) AND SINGLE BARREL SELECT 45% ABV (90 PROOF). JACK DANIEL’S, OLD NO.7 BRAND AND GENTLEMAN JACK ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS. ©2018 JACK DANIEL’S. DISTILLED AND BOTTLED BY JACK DANIEL DISTILLERY, LYNCHBURG, TENNESSEE. JACKDANIELS.COM

CHRISTMAS RETAILING

13. COOPERS SESSION ALE

Released in cans and bottles earlier this year, Coopers Session Ale was the first addition to Coopers’ family of ales in 14 years. Session Ale is a refreshing summer style beer with tropical fruit notes and an aromatic hop character. With a striking blue label, the beer provides an exciting new flavour profile for the Coopers range. Fresh, fruity and sessionable, Session Ale has quickly established itself as one of Coopers’ most popular beers. RRP: $18-$20 per six-pack of 375ml bottles or cans Distributed by: Premium Beverages

14. KURAYOSHI PURE MALT JAPANESE WHISKY

17. MR BLACK COLD BREW COFFEE LIQUEUR Mr Black is coffee liqueur made for coffee purists. With an overwhelming fresh coffee flavour, Mr Black is best enjoyed on ice or in cocktails. RRP: $51.99 per 700ml Distributed by: SouthTrade

Kurayoshi Pure Malt has a soft aroma and is balanced by a tart and sweet palate. Vanilla up front with almonds and a youthful spice. RRP: $99.99 per 700ml Distributed by: SouthTrade

15. COOPERS DRY Coopers Dry is the newest addition to the Coopers lager portfolio. A refreshing alternative to other low carb beers on the market, Coopers Dry is an easy drinking, fine filtered low carb beer with moderate bitterness. A true ‘dry’ style. RRP: $18-$20 per six-pack of 355ml bottles Distributed by: Premium Beverages

16. THE TOTTORI JAPANESE WHISKY Deep brassy gold. Bourbon heavy, with aromas of sweet oak, a touch of caramel and grainy, muesli sweetness. RRP: $89.99 per 700ml Distributed by: SouthTrade

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WHISKEY FEATURE

SCOTCH & IRISH WHISKIES

WHISKY OR WHISKEY?

. . . d o o G l l A Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

46 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

SCOTCH & IRISH WHISKIES

E SCOTCH WHISKY REMAINS THE LARGEST SPIRITS CATEGORY, NOW, WITH PRODUCERS LOOKING TO ARREST DECLINES IN BLENDED SCOTCH AND IRISH WHISKEY SEEING STRONG GROWTH IT’S AS IMPORTANT AS EVER THAT RETAILERS DON’T GET COMPLACENT ABOUT WHISKY. ANDY YOUNG REPORTS.

very retailer will be well aware of the massive growth that Scotch whisky has seen in recent years, it is growth that has seen Scotch overtake Bourbon as the number one spirits category in Australia. In fact of every $10 that is spent on glass spirits in Australia, $2.20 is spent on Scotch. And while blended whisky still makes up the majority of the overall category, the growth is coming from single malts, which are experiencing double digit growth, while sales of blended have softened slightly. What is interesting is that while growth for single malt Scotch is coming from various price brackets, it is the $50-$74.99 price bracket which is holding the highest share of single malt Scotch sales at 47.6 per cent. This suggests that consumers are still navigating through the introductory brands and expressions in the single malt category, an area where the Glenfiddich 12 Year Old sits well. As Kristie Asciak, Marketing Manager with William Grant & Sons Australia explains, this helps with making the brand and its expressions more approachable to consumers. “Our vision for whisky is to make it more accessible, explorable and understandable. Calling Glenfiddich ‘the world’s most awarded single malt’ helps give people the reassurance that what they are buying will be good quality, especially if it is a gift which is increasingly common at this time of year.” William Grant & Sons is also looking at trying to break down some of the restrictive rules that can apply to whisky and make the category less intimidating. One common approach that many brands are taking is to encourage consumers to move between expressions once they have found a brand and Asciak adds Glenfiddich looks to draw in new drinkers through innovative production processes and serves, which has been one of the reasons behind its popular experimental series.

LOVE OF THE IRISH

Award-winning whisky sits in Glenfiddich barrels

It is not just Scotch whisky that is proving popular in Australia, indeed globally Irish whiskey is enjoying a massive boom at the moment as the number of distilleries across Ireland increases and the number of high quality Irish whiskey brands increases. One relatively new brand making headway in Australia is Slane Irish Whiskey, which has come from a partnership between Brown-Forman and the Conyngham family, the owners of Slane Castle whose estate houses the distillery. Brown-Forman’s Brand Manager for Scotch, Irish and Canadian, Laura McCarthy explains where the brand is currently sitting in the Australian market. “Slane launched in Australia in April last year and we launched in the on-premise first and then over the last six months we have started to move the brand into retail as well. We’re getting picked up by more and more stores and banner groups, so we are really seeing our base in the retail sector spreading. “We initially started in on-premise but once we started to show it to the retail sector it has really started to take off. I thought we’d be looking at the next 12-24 months for it to take off but the uptake has been fantastic, so the focus now is getting the message out there about the brand and really working with stores on sampling and getting the message across about the brand.”

Gift the World’s most awarded this Christmas

SCOTCH & IRISH WHISKIES “There is definitely a lot more to explore in Irish whiskey now and Slane is a newer product that is out there and if people know they like Irish whiskey, and want to try to something new, then it’s a great option,” Laura McCarthy, Brand Manager, Brown-Forman

Slane is helping lead exploration of Irish whiskey With a distinct triple casked process of maturation, Slane has a more complex and robust flavour than traditional blended Irish whiskies, so that aspect of getting liquid on lips is vitally important. McCarthy added that in addition to exBourbon and ex-sherry barrels, Slane uses virgin oak barrels, that add an extra level of complexity which more and more Irish whiskies are doing, and all of which add up to making Irish an exciting category for retailers and consumers to explore. “Irish whiskey really is developing. It’s nice as the category is growing to see lots of new expressions of Irish whiskey highlighting that it is quite diverse. “Traditionally people would have said all Irish whiskey tastes that same, but that’s not the case. It’s not that it has to be triple distilled anymore, because it doesn’t; it’s not that it can’t be peated, because you do get peated Irish whiskies. Then there are the pot still Irish whiskies, single malts, some of the expressions coming from Jameson with Caskmates and Black Barrel. There is definitely a lot more to explore in Irish whiskey now and Slane is a newer product that is out there and if people know they like Irish whiskey, and want to try to something new, then it’s great and the packaging helps make it a great gifting option as well.” Speaking of Jameson, Eric Thomson, Pernod Ricard Australia Marketing Director, is very enthusiastic about where the brand is right now and what the future holds.

“Jameson is on fire in Australia, with value on the glass spirits growing at +11 per cent MAT and on the RTD range +52 per cent MAT. “Jameson Caskmates is a big focus for the business globally and is also performing strongly with value growing +114 per cent MAT which is promising coming into the busy Christmas period. We hope to see this momentum continue into 2019 and beyond.” He adds, “Jameson Caskmates IPA Edition is the new member of the family and is the focus for us coming into Christmas and the New Year. Best mixed with tonic and a wedge of lemon, it offers a new refreshing way to drink whiskey this summer. “It also appeals to a wide range of shoppers – existing Jameson shoppers or whiskey drinkers looking for something new as well as beer and craft beer drinkers looking to trade across, so it is a big opportunity to increase basket size.”

THE BEAUTIFUL BLENDS The single malt segment is showing tremendous growth, but blended Scotch still makes up the largest part of the category, currently accounting for around 84 per cent of the value and 89 per cent of the volume of the category. But blends have been responsible for some decline within the category with value down three per cent and volume down five per cent compared to a year ago. The exciting news is that many suppliers are now looking to arrest that decline and highlight many of the positive aspects of blends and really bring some excitement back into the category.

48 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

THE MOST EXPENSIVE WHISKY YOU CAN’T BUY One way that retailers can help give consumers confidence in the whisky they are buying is by enabling them to sample one expression and if they like that, then they can have confidence moving through the portfolio. Bacardi-Martini Australia is taking this concept to a new extreme with the release, or should that be the non-release, of the Craigellachie 51 Year Old. In a bid to stop ‘silly price tags’ and not have it “sitting on a shelf for another 51 years collecting dust”, 51 bottles of Craigellachie 51 Year Old will be opened and shared around the world. The single cask whisky was distilled in 1962 and is described as having notes of ripe orchard fruits and waxed lemons, creamy vanilla and sweet cereal. After being first shared among consumers in London, the whisky will head to Australia, the US and South Africa and the idea is that it will show consumers the best of Craigellachie and engage them with the brand.

Gift the Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most awarded this Christmas

SCOTCH & IRISH WHISKIES As Asciak explains, this is a key focus for William Grant & Sons now. “We are also looking to reinvigorate the declining blended category through the relaunch of Grants as Grants Triple Wood.” Brian Kinsman, Master Blender and Malt Master at William Grant & Sons explains, the importance of highlighting this distinction. “The Triple Wood process is at the very heart of what we create here at Grant’s. As a result of ageing our whiskies in three different casks our Triple Wood is distinctive to taste, with a balance of qualities drawn from the character of the wood. I love the complexity of spice, smooth vanilla and the sweet edge gathered from that combination of three casks.” Justin Strzadala, Brand Manager of Malts at William Grant & Sons adds, “The triple wood production process is such a strong claim to be able to make in the blended Scotch category, and we know that Scotch drinkers respond exceptionally well to it. We’re expecting some great results from this insight and will initially focus on in-store visibility to achieve this, as well as our continued support throughout trade as Australia’s Scotch Whisky Experts.” Strzadala explains what difference he hopes Triple Wood will make in this market. “Australians love Scotch but there’s a bias in wanting to dazzle your friends with single malt expertise. The blended Scotch category is often overlooked as a one size fits all, frequently shopped on price. This is a real shame because for the majority of Australian Scotch drinkers it’s what they reach for every other day and there’s a lot more to its story than they think, both in terms of how it’s made and the flavour profiles. Through Grant’s Triple Wood we are hoping to educate consumers about this.” Everyone in this industry should be well aware of the trend that Australians are drinking less but drinking better and this is reflected in the blended Scotch category as well, with the $75-$99.99 price bracket delivering some growth over the last year, driven by brands such as Johnnie Walker Green, Johnnie Walker Gold and Chivas Regal 18 Year Old. Lisa Whitworth, Head of Customer Marketing with Diageo Australia, says that this is something they are well aware of and are looking to help retailers make the most of this opportunity for growth at this crucial time of year. “White Walker by Johnnie Walker is already shaping up to be huge in the run-up to Christmas. The response from retailers has been phenomenal, and they share our excitement for new products that have real cultural relevance for consumers. “This limited-edition Scotch whisky is inspired by the most enigmatic and feared characters on the global phenomenon that is Game of Thrones – the White Walkers – and the release ahead of Christmas will add to the anticipation of both Scotch lovers and Game of Thrones fans ahead of the final season airing next year.”

SAY HELLO AGAIN TO AN OLD FRIEND Three years after distribution to Australia was stopped because of global supply issues, The Glenlivet 12 Year Old has just been re-introduced into the Australian market. A global shortage of the liquid saw sales in Australia cease, but thanks to an increased global availability of aged stock the whisky returned to bars and retailers in limited stocks last month. Eric Thomson, Pernod Ricard Australia Marketing Director, said: “During a recent trip to Australia, Master Distiller Alan Winchester said the most-asked question from whisky lovers was ‘When is The Glenlivet 12 Year Old returning to Australia?’ We’re pleased to now announce it’s back – just in time for the festive period.” Sinea Weintz, Brand Ambassador for The Glenlivet added: “Australians love The Glenlivet 12 Year Old and there is strong demand for Scotch whisky across the country. The single malts category alone in Australia is in strong double-digit growth at +19.7 per cent.”

50 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

INNOVATION BEYOND THE LIQUID It’s not just within the development of new expressions, flavour profiles and finishes that the whisky industry is innovating and developing. The category is increasingly becoming more attractive to different drinkers including more younger, legal age, drinkers and more women. And it’s not just that more women are drinking whisky they are increasingly the brains behind it. The Balvenie has appointed 26-year-old Kelsey McKechnie as the apprentice Malt Master under the careful stewardship of the industry’s longestserving Malt Master, David Stewart. Stewart has spent 56 years working in the industry and previously mentored Glenfiddich Malt Master Brian Kinsman. “It goes without saying that it’s both an incredible honour and a privilege to be announced as The Balvenie’s new apprentice Malt Master,” McKechnie said. “Over the past four years, the team at William Grant & Sons have provided me with a wealth of support, guidance and knowledge on all things spirits, and I look forward to continuing my journey and development under David’s tutelage.”

SCOTCH & IRISH WHISKIES

TURNING WHISKY ON ITS HEAD

Jameson is extending its premium range of whiskies

THE GIFT GIVING PERIOD December is a massive time of year for all whiskies, especially with the premiumisation of the Australian liquor market. So how can you as retailers make sure that you are making the most of this crucial time of year, and take the key opportunities to upsell or advise gift givers? Whitworth says that many consumers are still looking for more understanding of the category to help them broaden their whisky purchases with confidence. “Encourage your staff to share whisky tips with customers or even tap into their taste in wine as a way to bridge the gap on their whisky knowledge,” she says. “If the customer enjoys full-bodied Shiraz then steer them towards a whisky that’s complex, rich and smoky like a single malt from Islay, a Lagavulin 16YO for example. “Make the most of the limited edition gifting and seasonal packaging you find on many of the single malts and premium blended whiskies too. This is the time when discretionary spend is higher than ever so capture the market while they’re in your store. Prompt conversion by reminding your customers that Christmas is the perfect time to look at single malts and premium blended Scotch whisky as popular gifts.” For McCarthy because Slane is a new brand it doesn’t have a huge suite of assets, but it does have a team that’s passionate about the brand and that is something that retailers can look to take advantage of. “I’ve really emphasised to the sales teams here that we are happy to customise our support to their channel or group. So if a group wants to do something like a gift with purchase we can help with creating wobblers and we can do some training in-store, to help with understanding the importance of our triple casking and the flavour profile. “So really our key message is that if a retailer wants support, or they need support, they should let their sales rep know and we’ll work it out from there.” Asciak adds that helping consumers understand the brands and the quality of those, will help give them the confidence they need.

52 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

“From a gifting standpoint, we know that a lot of those people buying might not necessarily be ‘into’ whisky themselves, so what are they going to do, how are they going to know that what they are about to buy is good? “So that’s where our ‘world’s most awarded’ gives them the reassurance and quality messaging that they are buying a good whisky. The great thing is that they can then look up and down the portfolio of expressions of a brand that they can trust like Glenfiddich or The Balvenie and then choose whichever one fits within their budget.” Asciak also says there are opportunities for retailers to fully engage with their consumers and help take them on the journey through the full range of Scotch. “Some consumers will come in and they’ve tried a couple of blends, or are just interested in finding out about the category as a whole and we really want to help retailers take them on the journey. “They can shop through blended and have a range of beautiful flavour experiences, they can get into entry-level single malts and then begin to move up through the range of something like Glenfiddich, where you can go from a 12YO all the way up through the range to a 21YO and beyond, or they can keep exploring through things like our new Ailsa Bay or The Balvenie, or whatever wonderful expressions people are bringing out.” So while both Scotch and Irish are very mature categories in Australia, the message is clear that innovation is still as important as it always has been to the category. Single malt brands are continuing to develop new expressions and flavour profiles to engage new consumers; the blended whiskies are looking to reinvigorate the category and help consumers re-engage with this massive area and Irish whiskey producers are showing that there is as much complexity within their drinks as any other and that it is definitely a category worth exploring. So with the key gifting time ahead, engage with the suppliers, understand what options are available and make sure you are ready to make the most of this hugely important and continually evolving category.

William Grant & Sons has launched Ailsa Bay, a single malt which is the first and only whisky to index ‘sweetness’ due to its data-led distillation process, created by Malt Master, Brian Kinsman. The scientific measurement of sweetness complements a precise calculation of ‘peatiness’ to create the perfect balance between smokiness and sweetness – all driven by advanced technology. Ailsa Bay single malt whisky is also the only Scotch whisky to undergo ‘micromaturation’, a process where the new spirit is first kept in small Bourbon casks to age for up to nine months. By ‘cask starting’ rather than ‘cask finishing’ the malt, whisky scientists can then layer on a complex matrix of flavours, taking the liquid through rapid, intense maturation and incorporating varying levels of sweetness and smokiness. “Ailsa Bay’s distillery is one of the most advanced in the world and is a playground for our inquisitive team of scientists, engineers and whisky makers questioning the status quo and pushing boundaries,” said Kinsman. “We have created a beautiful new sensory experience in whisky through experimentation with data science, distilling whisky in the most precise way possible.”

T H E I C O N I C S I N G L E M A LT. A P E R F E C T LY B A L A N C E D C L A S S I C .

SUMMER BEER & CIDER

n u S e h T n I n Fu EVEN WITH ALL OF THE CHOICE ON THE SHELF FOR THE SUMMER REVELLER THESE DAYS, THE RETURN OF HOTTER WEATHER STILL SEES MANY REACHING FOR AN ICY-COLD BEER OR CIDER. SO HOW SHOULD RETAILERS BEST TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE SUMMER SEASON? TAM ALLENBY FINDS OUT.

ust as the hotter weather sees many Australians dust off their beach towels and boogie boards for another season, as the weather warms up, the beer and cider industries prepare themselves for the busiest months of the year. So, as we near the tail-end of 2018 – and look ahead to 2019 – there’s a few trends that you, as a retailer, need to stay on top of to ensure that this summer is a cracker.

THE CONTINUED RISE OF SESSION ALE AND CANS Summer is peak time for breweries, with one trend that looks set to continue into late 2018 and early 2019 being the rise of the session ale. Miles Hull, Head of Marketing at Good Drinks – the new name for the rebranded sales and marketing team at Gage Roads Brewing – says that the Gage Roads portfolio of beers, which are largely hop-forward but approachable, are perfect for summer drinking occasions.

“Our Narrow Neck Session Ale – being a lighter alcohol, mid-strength beer – it tends not to knock you around as much on those long, hot summer days, and is designed to be more approachable,” explains Hull. “With our Single Fin Summer Ale too, we don’t go too heavy on the bitterness. We really believe that beer is a refreshing drink, and we like to produce approachable styles that are sessionable as well – appealing to consumers that are looking to have a couple of beers, and are looking to be refreshed by those beers.” Hull also reveals that Gage Roads will be putting Single Fin into cans for the upcoming season, in the form of a loose carton ‘summer pack’. “It’s all about the upcoming summer period where people get together for festivals, events, backyard barbecues, camping trips and the like – where cans are particularly suited to,” he says. Another brewery launching a mid-strength beer, targeting this ‘afternoon session’ occasion,

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is Wingman. The release of Wingman 3.5% Mid Strength follows the launch of (bottled) Wingman 4.5% Premium Lager last summer, with the brewery’s Anna Worsley encouraging retailers to “stock up” on the new beer. “This summer, as we are a more established brand, we expect to see a surge in sales as summer is the perfect time to enjoy an ice-cold Wingman beer,” she told National Liquor News. Back on the craft side of things, Sydney brewery Wayward has also relaunched a new line of cans – two of which are completely new beers. Peter Philip, Founder of Wayward, says that getting the four beers into cans before summer was an important consideration, describing cans as “the perfect format for summer around the pool, at the beach, festivals etc.” Interestingly, one of the four beers is a Berliner Weisse – a sour beer style which usually sits at around three to four per cent ABV, and is known for its refreshing quality.

SUMMER BEER & CIDER “People are super stoked to have Sourpuss – now called Raspberry Berliner Weisse – in cans for summer,” says Philip. “The term ‘sour beer’ has probably been most responsible for holding back its popularity, but once people try one then they see that it’s the perfect summer beer – light, dry and refreshing while being lower in alcohol, and of course super tasty.”

ASIAN REFRESHMENT The clean and crisp lager styles typical of Asian beer brands also prove popular during summer; Thailand’s Singha, Singapore’s Tiger and Indonesia’s Bintang (just to name a few) have long been favourites of Australians escaping to the tropics for a holiday, a nostalgic memory and association that can be a powerful factor in purchasing decisions back home. In terms of the figures, it’s two Japanese beers leading the charge in the off-premise Asian beer segment in Australia: Asahi Super Dry and Sapporo. According to statistics released in the ALSA-IRI State of the Industry Report 2018, Asahi and Sapporo were the number seven and number 15 largest growth beer brands, with the former growing by 21 per cent in 2017 and the latter by 30 per cent. “The crisp refreshment offered by Japanese lagers make them the ideal beer choice for an Australian summer,” says Andrew Brooks, Brand Manager for Sapporo Premium Beer at Premium Beverages. “It’s a sessionable, versatile beer style that lends itself to the many summer occasions that Australians enjoy – be that dinner with friends, a backyard barbecue or a sunny Sunday afternoon at your favourite watering hole.” In terms of promotions, Sapporo will shortly be launching its ‘Legendary Bīru’ campaign, telling the story of Sapporo’s first Brewmaster Seibei Nakagawa – who, in 1876, risked his life in pursuit of what is now Japan’s oldest beer brand. “You can expect a big push through summer including above-the-line [marketing], digital partnerships, sampling, retail promotions and a continued focus on the Sapporo perfect pour on-premise,” says Brooks. “It’s a jam-packed season which is sure to have Sapporo top of mind around the country.”

HOW CAN RETAILERS MAKE THE MOST OF THE SUMMER MONTHS IN THEIR STORE? ANDREW BROOKS, SAPPORO: “The basics of stock weight, clean merchandising, shoppable displays and price continue to be the easiest way for retailers to maximise sales opportunities through summer. Sapporo also offers support over and above these basics to bring the brand to the forefront and encourage consumers to trade up to a premium beer choice.” MILES HULL, GOOD DRINKS: “Occasion-based packs are always great, or cans in a pack designed for sharing. Summer ales, mid-strength beers and ciders are also popular. And we always encourage that ‘stock sells stock’ so nice floor stacks, and ease of availability is important. I think the Gage Roads brand particularly is well-geared to provide consumers with beers that are suited for the summer months – well-made, balanced beers with a nice hop character but moderate alcohol content as well. ANNA WORSLEY, WINGMAN: “Retailers during this busy summer period when selling Wingman should ensure that the Wingman logo is blue (not silver) to let customers know that the beer is at the perfect drinking temperature of 4.5 degrees. Retailers should also inform customers of the benefit of having a colour changing logo, for us there is nothing worse than when you are at a mates barbecue and you go to have a beer and it is warm, with a Wingman you’ll never have to drink warm beer again.”

FRUIT BEER – PERFECT SUMMER DRINKING? “We’re really excited by the Matso’s brand, with some exciting plans ahead for that,” Good Drinks’ Miles Hull told NLN. “The Matso’s products were born out of warm climate, producing beers that are great for summer. Some of the Matso’s range are a great beer alternate as well, and an alternate to cider too – because cider can only be apple or pear – but our Ginger Beer, Mango Beer, products that introduce fruit flavours very similar to cider, provide a great alternative to the more traditional products that we know. We’re seeing quite a growth in this section – ultimately it’s about enjoyment and refreshment, and I think the Matso’s range provide that. The Ginger Beer (3.5 per cent ABV) for example is a really well-balanced beer that also brings a light sweetness – which you really crave when you’re thirsty – and is a little lighter on the alcohol.”

NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS NOVEMBER 2018 | 55

SUMMER BEER & CIDER

CHATTING SUMMER WITH CAMERON FLETT, MANAGER OF WARNER’S AT THE BAY BOTTLE SHOP Q DO YOU SEE A GENERAL INCREASE IN BEER AND CIDER SALES WHEN THE WEATHER HEATS UP? Absolutely. When it comes to the warmer months, people tend to socialise a whole lot more; barbecues, picnics are more prevalent, and add Christmas/New Year into the mix and people are generally out more. And what pairs better with those social situations than a delicious beer or cider?

Q DO YOU ADJUST YOUR BEER AND CIDER RANGE SEASONALLY? Definitely. As soon as the sun starts shining and people lose their jumpers, we definitely see a change in consumer tastes. Big heavy stouts and bold red wines take a back seat to thirst quenching ciders and easy drinking ales.

Q HOW ELSE DO YOU TAKE ADVANTAGE

CIDER: STILL QUENCHING THIRST While the cider market may have contracted last year (according to statistics from ALSA-IRI) there’s still plenty of innovation in the segment, with new products continuing to excite consumers. At the recent Australian Liquor Industry Awards (ALIA), the overall winner in the offpremise cider category – Pure Blonde Crisp Apple Cider, with 60 per cent less sugar and 50 per cent less carbs than regular cider – reflecting the overall trend towards low-carb options, and lending significant weight to the ALSA-IRI’s finding that “moderation themed cider is the most significant bright spot for the category”. Also, while cider is consumed all year round, its refreshing character means that summer continues to be a key season for consumption, with the seasonal proliferation of barbeques, pool parties and festivals the perfect occasion. Over at Good Drinks, Hello Sunshine Cider – produced in partnership with the operators of Fringe World Festival, a summer festival in WA – was designed precisely for this type of occasion. “In Perth at summertime it can get quite hot, and cider is a great product for those long, hot summer days and nights,” Hull told NLN. “Hello Sunshine is light and refreshing, and there’s a little bit of sweetness from the apple. Even by name, we think the cider is great for the warmer months.” Rekorderlig has also introduced a new range of ready-to-drink Cider Cocktails, which Nikki Romans, Marketing Director Australasia for Rekorderlig Cider, says will be a “key focus for us during the summer months”. “We recognised that consumers are looking for high quality, immediate drink solutions and we worked hard to ensure that our Cider Cocktails taste the same as if they were freshly made,” Romans says. “Whether it’s at home, a barbecue, a party, or in a bar, the launch offers consumers a sophisticated way to enjoy cider”. Available in a clear 330ml glass bottle (or as a four-pack), each of the three cocktails – Strawberry-Lime Swedish Punch, Mango-Raspberry Daisy and Wild Berries Bramble – is a Swedish twist on a cocktail classic. “Consumers don’t just drink one product or brand any longer, they have a repertoire of drinks,” reminds Romans. “However, what we’re seeing is a real shift towards less is more and it is premium, quality, authentic brands that are really resonating.” So make sure your cider ranging, as well the beer selection in your store, reflects this.

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OF SUMMER AT YOUR STORE? Stock up on what are the new big movers for the season. Make sure that you have your four and six-packs cold and ready to go – people are looking for convenience.

Q WHAT’S HOT FOR SUMMER 2018/19? Craft beer wise, we’re seeing a lot of mid-strength options coming through – but mid-strength with flavour. Seems like the Balter Captain Sensible, Ballistic Pilot Light, Colonial Small Ale and stuff like that is popular. Session IPAs, XPAs, pales were the big ones last year. In terms of cider, a fair few people have started to turn away from the sweet stuff and to a medium dry style. Things like the Hills Cider, producers like Spreyton down in Tasmania – people like the story, and brands that have their own orchards rather than just being brands.

Q GIVEN YOUR WATERSIDE LOCATION, DO YOU OFFER UPSELLING OPPORTUNITIES TARGETING OUTDOOR OCCASIONS? As well as our wide range of beers and ciders, we also stock local meats and cheeses which are the perfect accompaniment to a chilled six-pack down by Lake Macquarie.

TINA PANOUTSOS

NEAL CAMERON

JUSTIN FOX

MICHAEL CAPALDO

GRAHAM WRIGHT CHARLIE WHITTING

TAM ALLENBY

IN THIS ISSUE OUR PANELISTS TASTE THE LATEST NEW RELEASE BEER AND CIDER. HERE ARE THE RESULTS.

4 PINES WEST COAST RED RYE IPA

NOBLE BOY PALE ALE

7.3% ABV, 500ml This is another birthday beer from 4Pines and that old fashioned clarity is there once again – an amber red colour. The influence of the rye is evident from the first inhalation, with a spicy, toasty nose. Resinous IPA notes also poke through. The flavour offers more than the nose. It balances bitterness and sweetness well, while the spicy rye does enough to be noticed without dominating. All the elements are in check and they hide the alcohol all too well. Style: Rye IPA 4pinesbeer.com.au

4.4% ABV, 375ml can Hailing from the Napier Hotel, Fitzroy, this conceived gypsy brew is gathering interest. The appearance is amber with a good lacy white head. The aroma of malt, with tropical fruit notes and some hop grassiness. The palate is medium bodied, with good malt carry and light fruit flections. The finish is clean and simple, with low bitterness. Style: Pale Ale Nobleboy.com

TWO HEADS MILLER’S PORTER

STONE & WOOD CLOUD CATCHER

BEE MEAD HONEY & GINGER

6% ABV, 375ml can This is a very dark beer, with a fast-thinning head. Aromas of coffee, hazelnut and dark cocoa abound on the nose, while the mouthfeel is incredibly smooth and velvety. It is almost light in texture, belying its dark colour. The beer is slightly sweet, but it is a sweetness from dark chocolate, which also brings bitterness. The finish reminds me of roasted chestnuts. This is a very sessionable porter with decent bitterness backing it up. Style: Porter Twoheadsbrewing.com

5% ABV, 330ml A bit less hazy than its famous cousin Pacific Ale, this beer has an appealing yellow to orange huee. There is plenty of hop aroma on the nose – peach, stone fruit, mango and pineapple, along with citrusy lemons. The first gulp reveals an excellently balanced beer, and a great example of an Australian pale ale. There are hints of Galaxy coming through, but overall this is more complex than the Pacific Ale, with a firm bitterness rounding it all out. Style: Pale ale Stoneandwood.com.au

4.5% ABV, 500ml Using predominantly clover honey, the addition of ginger adds body, mouthfeel and complexity. Opaque in appearance with light carbonation the aroma is as the label expresses. The palate is light, and moderately sweet, with good flavour expression. The carbonation adds to the zestiness of the mead. The finish is slightly confected candy sweet, but the ginger carries well. Style: Flavoured mead Beemead.com.au

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LORD NELSON PEKING POPPI SEASONAL ALE 4.2% ABV, 375ml can This beer is clear as a bell and very pale, with a nice effervescence. The first whiff is intriguing – like a spice rack. There’s plenty of allspice, coriander and lemongrass, but fennel and aniseed are dominant too. This is followed with an almost candy cane perfume. In the mouth, this is a spicy, but fruity and light-bodied ale. There’s not much bitterness, but there are plenty of interesting flavours that shine through moderate sweetness. Style: Session ale Lordnelsonbrewery.com

EGERER SUPER WEIZEN 5.2% ABV, 500ml can Brewed at the Privat Brauerei in Pilsting-Grösskollnbach, this German wheat has all the traditional hallmarks of the style. The colour is gold with a firm white head. The aroma of sweet malts and cloves are evident, with malt more dominant. The palate of banana, citrus and clove, with rich malt layering and yeastiness is excellent. The finish is full of lingering malt and clove. Style: German wheat Egerer.de

URBAN ALLEY BREWERY URBAN ALE 4.5% ABV, 375ml can This five hop sessionable ale has excellent balance. The straw appearance has a medium white head. The aroma is a medley of nettle, herb and has hints of citrus and lemon. The palate is light with good hop flavour and a suitable malt base. The beer offers interest and flavour with low bitterness. Style: Australian pale ale Urbanalley.com.au

EAST 9TH BREWING DOSS BLOCKOS PALE LAGER 4.6% ABV, 330ml This beer looks like a classic lager, pale gold and crystal clear. The aroma is all about beer – there’s a slightly sweet maltiness on the nose, with a slight hint of honey. There’s not much bitterness on the palate, although there is some flowery and citrussy hop flavour. This is an uncomplicated, crushable lager. It’s also worth knowing that East 9th are using this beer to raise awareness of children’s charity Polished Man. Style: Lager E9thbrewing.com

AIBA AWARDS COLLABORATION PASSIONFRUIT TART IPA 6% ABV, 375ml can Brewed to commemorate the AIBAs 2018, this is a beauty. Cloudy yellow, with a good white head. The aroma of pulped passionfruit, and a grassy hop note. The palate is sharp and tart, with intermittent sweetness, strong passionfruit. The finish is sharp and dry. Style: Fruit beer Rasv.com.au

JAMES SQUIRE HOP THIEF NO. 9 AMERICAN PALE ALE

YOUNG HENRY’S FOO FIGHTER’S FOO TOWN LAGER

5.0% ABV, 345ml This beer showcases Calypso and Citra hops. The beer pours an orangey-brown colour and has good foam. The aroma offers cumquat and orange notes with a hint of pear and spruce. The palate offers good malt and orange flavour. The bitterness is low and the finish is dry. Style: American pale ale Jamessquire.com.au

4% ABV, 375ml can Young Henrys Brewery in Newtown is situated close to Sydney University, an ideal setting for the Foo Fighters Collaborative brew. Footown Lager pours a clear gold with a light white head. The aroma offers a cereal graininess and maltiness. The palate is clean with some malt layering. Clean and easy drinking with a subtle citrus note on the finish. Style: Lager Younghenrys.com

JAMES SQUIRE THE HOP FATHER COLLABORATION EXTRA PALE ALE 4.7% ABV, 345ml The Hop Father is a commemorative brew. Pouring dark copper in colour with a creamy head, the aroma of the beer is citrus and good bready malt. The palate offers a hop medley of fruit flavours with a good malt spine. The finish is mildly bitter with some resonating grapefruit flavour. Style: Australian pale ale Jamessquire.com.au

4 PINES KELLER DOOR BIG BREKKY PORTER 7% ABV, 500ml This Big Brekky Porter captures some of the flavours of breakfast with burnt toast and coffee, but not recommended to drink as a breakfast beer. The beer offers the scent of milky chocolate and bitter dark chocolate. On the palate the dance of chocolate and roast is unusual, and for a porter is a clever cross-style beer. The body and the finish are full, hiding the alcohol masterfully. Style: Strong porter 4pinesbeer.com.au

WEIHENSTEPHANER HEFEWEISSBIER 5.4% ABV, 500ml Weihenstephaner Brewery is the original Benedictine monk brewery and has beers hailing from Bavaria since 725AD. Pouring a hazy yellow-gold, it has a white wheaty head. The yeast aroma and phenolic notes of cloves are style signatures. The palate offers banana, rich malt and yeast character, the finish is rich malt with some wheat derived dryness. Style: Wheat Weihenstephaner.de

NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS NOVEMBER 2018 | 59

WINE TASTING

THE RIESLING TASTING THE PANEL

1. Daryl Fisher, General Manager, Fisher Fine Wine

4. Renée Foster, Communications & Marketing Manager, Moppity Vineyards

2. Duncan Macdonald, Cellar Door Manager, Cherry Tree Hill

5. Geoff Bollom, Retailer, Fennell Bay Cellars

7. Andy Young, Editor, The Shout 8. Amber Maddox, Wine Ambassador, Pernod Ricard Australia

3. Andrew Graham, Online Communications Manager, 6. Craig Hawtin-Butcher, Editor, Australian Hotelier Cracka Wines

THE PANEL’S PICKS Taylors St Andrews Riesling Region: Clare Valley VIN: 2017 LUC: $23.87

90 Devil’s Corner Riesling Region: Tasmania VIN: 2018 LUC: $13.01

“Good complexity on the nose. Great colour, great primary fruits. Really good.” Geoff Bollom

“A well-balanced wine with fruit on the nose and acid on the palate. One for the cellar.” Duncan Macdonald

Distributed by: Taylors Wines

Distributed by: Brown Family Wine Group

93 Pepper Tree Limited Release Orange Riesling Region: Orange VIN: 2018 LUC: $16.13

“Wonderful aromas on the nose and it had a very drinkable mouthfeel.” Daryl Fisher Distributed by: Déjà Vu

THE SYSTEM 95-100 Classic: an exceptional wine

90-94 Outstanding: a wine of remarkable character

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85-89 Very good: a wine with impressive qualities

WINE TASTING LUC UNDER $13 De Bortoli Wines Sacred Hill Traminer Riesling Region: Wine of Australia VIN: 2017 LUC: $4.82 “A classic off-dry.” – Duncan Macdonald “Floral, citrus bloom and lavender. Good acids and complexity. A tart finish.” – Daryl Fisher

Distributed by: De Bortoli Wines

Ferngrove Black Label Off-Dry Riesling Region: Frankland River VIN: 2018 LUC: $12.36 Blackcurrant flavours and some residual sweetness.” – Andrew Graham “A bright and effervescent palate with lifted lemon, musk and floral notes.” – Renée Foster

Distributed by: Ferngrove Wine Group

Jacob’s Creek Barossa Signature Riesling Region: Barossa VIN: 2017 LUC: $11.56 “Rose petal, floral, citrus, lemon and intense lime. A rich, complex wine.” – Daryl Fisher “A touch of lime on the nose, dry and crisp on the palate.” – Duncan Macdondald

“Price is not an indicator for the quality of Rieslings.” – Daryl Fisher

Distributed by: Pernod Ricard Australia

La Vue Riesling Region:Central Victoria VIN: 2017 LUC: $11.83

J acob’s Creek Classic Riesling Region: South Eastern Australia VIN: 2018 LUC: $7.29 “Bright and zesty style. Clean and fresh. Lovely lifted citrus fruits and bright acidity.” – Renée Foster

“Lovely bright floral nose. Honey-coated citrus on the palate.” – Renée Foster

“Pale, bright, with an intense nose of citrus and stone fruits. A very dry palate with bright acidity.” – Andy Young

“Bright, lemon, honey and exotic blossom. Very floral.” – Andy Young

Distributed by: Pernod Ricard Australia

Distributed by: Tahbilk

Ferngrove Black Label Riesling (Dry-Style) egion: Frankland River R VIN: 2017 LUC: $12.36

DID YOU KNOW? • Varietal growth is solely driven by Bottled Riesling with Cask Riesling in decline.

“Much more fruit than the nose suggested.” Duncan Macdonald

• Bottled Riesling growth is slightly higher than Total Bottled Wine growth for both value and volume.

“Bready, sherbet, capsicum, tropical fruit. Tight, firm acids on the finish.” – Daryl Fisher

• Riesling sales (bottled and cask) are worth $65m and delivered growth of $2.8m or a heathy 4.5 per cent versus year ago.

Distributed by: Ferngrove Wine Group

Source: IRI MarketEdge data | MAT to 02/09/18

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

NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS NOVEMBER 2018 | 61

WINE TASTING LUC BETWEEN $13 AND $16 K atnook Estate Riesling Region: Coonawarra VIN: 2015 LUC: $15.05 “Fresh and spirited. Good length on the palate. An approachable wine that would be great with food.” – Amber Maddox “Good acid and fruit balance. Complexity on the nose. Great colour, great finish.” – Geoff Bollom Distributed by: Fesq (VIC/NSW/QLD), Muster (SA), Off the Vine (WA)

“The best wines combined lift and delicacy with depth and presence on the palate.” – Renée Foster B rockenchack Mackenzie William 1896 Riesling Region: Barossa VIN: 2018 LUC: $13.80

L isa Bunn Fleißiges Lieschen Riesling Region: Rheinhessen, Germany VIN: 2017 LUC: $15.52 “A classic, dry, aperitif-style Riesling.” – Craig Hawtin-Butcher “Clean and crisp in look and taste. Slight hint of a spritz.” – Andy Young

“Mineral saline and grapefruit. Lovely present and structure on the palate. Subtle citrus fruits. Very clean with depth and length.” – Renée Foster “Citrus fruit aromas. Lovely minerality with a long dry finish.” – Andy Young

Distributed by: Brockenchack Wines

Distributed by: Decante This

G iesen Riesling Region: Marlborough/Waipara, New Zealand VIN: 2017 LUC: $13.76

T aylors Riesling Region: Clare Valley VIN: 2017 LUC: $15.48 “Ripe fruits with good acid. A nice warming finish. Great with lemon-based dishes.” – Geoff Bollom “Much drier than the nose would suggest. Still lively and bright.” – Amber Maddox

“Pineapple and tropical fruit. Good balance.” – Daryl Fisher “Subtle citrus on the nose and surprisingly sweet.” – Duncan Macdonald

Distributed by: Oatley Fine Wine Merchants

Distributed by: Taylors Wines

D ’Arenberg The Dry Dam Riesling Region: McLaren Vale VIN: 2017 LUC: $14.41

DID YOU KNOW? • Continued growth at approximately the same level for Bottled Riesling is expected. • Similarly, further range rationalisation for Bottled Riesling brands is also predicted. • Riesling volume sold was 3.7m litres, an increase of 12,000 litres or 0.3 per cent versus year ago.

Source: IRI MarketEdge data | MAT to 02/09/18

“Nice complexity on the nose. Great colour and good balance with a crisp acid finish. A good wine.” – Geoff Bollom “Lively and bright wine with classic varietal characteristics. Well balanced.” – Amber Maddox Distributed by: Off The Vine (WA), Empire Liquor (SA), Young & Rashleigh (ACT), The Wine Company (VIC), Inglewood Wines (NSW)

THE SYSTEM 95-100 Classic: an exceptional wine

90-94 Outstanding: a wine of remarkable character

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85-89 Very good: a wine with impressive qualities

WINE TASTING LUC $16 AND OVER L isa Bunn Orbel Riesling Region: Nierstein, Rheinhessen, Germany VIN: 2016 LUC: $31.55 “Hints of aged Riesling. Good balance of acid and fruit. Really interested to try this with some age.” – Andy Young “Stone fruits on the nose, a crisp freshness with a refreshing acidity.” – Craig Hawtin-Butcher

“This tasting had a very good standard. White fruits coming through to add to the complexity. It’s good to see some good Rieslings coming from warmer areas.” – Geoff Bollom

Distributed by: Decante This

M cGuigan The Shortlist Riesling Region: Eden Valley VIN: 2018 LUC: $17.20

S teingarten Riesling Region: Barossa VIN: 2018 LUC: $20.16 “Great aromas give a hint of what’s to come. Good, balanced finish. Clean acid lingers.” – Geoff Bollom

“Very aromatic on the nose with lots of floral notes. Palate more driven by stone fruits.” – Amber Maddox

“Fresh and lively wine with classic varietal citrus characteristics. Lovely minerality while still being beautifully balanced. Yum.” – Amber Maddox

“A good wine that will develop. Good acid fruit balance.” – Geoff Bollom

Distributed by: Pernod Ricard Australia

Distributed by: Australian Vintage Limited

G undog Estate Riesling Region: Canberra District VIN: 2018 LUC: $17.42

DID YOU KNOW? • The Northern Territory currently accounts for 11 per cent of national sales volume of Cask Riesling. • Riesling sales are following the general liquor trend of ‘premiumisation’ with higher value growth from lower volume driven by higher price. • The average price per 750ml is $13.23 which has increased 4.2 per cent versus year ago.

Source: IRI MarketEdge data | MAT to 02/09/18

“Yum. Reminds me of lime cordial but in a good way.” – Duncan MacDonald “Lemon and straw. Sherbet with a citrus finish.” – Daryl Fisher

Distributed by: Garrick’s Wine, Australian Liquor Enterprises

R obert Stein RS15 Half Dry Riesling Region: Mudgee VIN: 2018 LUC: $19.35

R obert Stein Dry Riesling Region: Mudgee VIN: 2018 LUC: $19.35 “Lovely bright nose, citrus and floral notes. Lovely clean palate, dry with good depth of fruit. Lovely structure and length.” – Renée Foster “The best of the lot. Flavour intensity and some lovely peach fruit.” – Andrew Graham

Distributed by: Red+White

“Orange blossom and floral notes make for a lovely nose. Good balance with complex citrus fruit.” – Daryl Fisher “Good fruit scents on the nose. Sugar with citrus and acid on the palate.” – Duncan MacDonald

Distributed by: Red+White

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

NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS NOVEMBER 2018 | 63

EVENTS

1. ILG HOSTS ANNUAL CORPORATE RACE DAY Around 200 members of the ILG family gathered at the Hawkesbury Racecourse in Clarendon NSW for the Annual Corporate Race Day on 27 September. Supplier sponsors treated the crowd with a variety of tastings that included refreshing ales, wines, nips and other exciting new release products and old favourites. CEO Paul Esposito welcomed the ILG family to what he described a celebration. “Let’s make today a family celebration, let’s all have fun, back some winners and more importantly let’s enjoy the camaraderie, this is what ILG is all about.” Hosting the day’s program was none other than second generation family member Dane Wheeler, Glenn Wheeler’s son. Members will recall that Glenn was once the face and voice of the ILG Let’s Get Together Events that were introduced in 2011. The winner of the ‘Colourful Tie Award’ Scott Richardon

Attendees were encouraged to ‘walk the runway’ for the Fashions on the Field award A bartender shakes up an 1800 cocktail

1 2. JOSE CUERVO CELEBRATES THE DAY OF THE DEAD Jose Cuervo held a tequila masterclass for trade to celebrate Day of the Dead at Barrio Cellar on 29 October. Hosted by the Jose Cuervo Tequila Specialist, Hayley Dixon, the session covered the 100 per cent agave tequila offerings of the brand with tastings of the premium Grand Centenario range, as well as the super-premium range – Reserva de la Familia Extra Anejo, and Platino, the only silver tequila in the world to score over 95 from the Beverage Testing Institute. Guests were also treated to a range of 1800 cocktails after the session on the history and production of tequila, as well as tacos and free Day of the Dead face painting.

2 Jose Cuervo Tequila Specialist Hayley Dixon

Grey Goose Global Ambassador Joe McCanta

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The newly opened Cellar Door

EVENTS 3. BROCKENCHACK WINES OPENS ITS CELLAR DOORS

3 Grey Goose getaway

Trevor and Marilyn Harch opened the Brockenchack cellar door to the public on Friday 19 October after official opening for industry guests on Thursday 10 October. The Harches fell in love with the Barossa during numerous visits to the region throughout the 1990s, and in the late 1990s purchased the historic Tanunda Cellars. In 2007, they bought a single vineyard estate in Keyneton, now known as Brockenchack, and relocated to Eden Valley in 2013 as committed vignerons. Located at Sawpit Gully Road, Keyneton, the original 1880s cottage turned butcher shop has been transformed into a cellar door, complete with a tasting bar, upstairs wine room and underground cellar. It complements the luxury bed and breakfast next door with 360-degree scenic views of the vineyard. “We are excited about this addition to our vineyard as we believe it will provide a unique experience to both complement and complete our Eden Valley wine tourism offering,” Trevor said. Cognac tasting with Martell

5 VSOP Red Barrel from Martell

5. GREY GOOSE GETAWAY Last month Grey Goose hosted its inaugural Grey Goose Getaway destination experience. The Bells at Killcare boutique hotel property was booked out exclusively and provided a picture perfect setting inspired by the French home of Grey Goose, Le Logis combined with the charm of the Riviera seaside. More than 40 bar professionals from across Australia and New Zealand experienced the bonne vivant lifestyle as the ideal way to kick off the ultimate summer celebration. Global Ambassador, Joe McCanta, joined the local advocacy team consisting of Georgie Mann, Loy Catada and Pete Hollands to host guests across a jam packed itinerary of education and fun. This year’s Limited Edition Riviera bottle designed by modern French illustrator, Quentin Monge, was also launched at the Getaway.

4 4. MARTELL HOSTS FULL COGNAC COLLECTION TASTING The Martell team invited an exclusive group of media to taste its full Cognac collection at the Pernod Ricard offices at Barangaroo in Sydney. Guests were able to explore a new dimension of Martell aging savoir-fair and discover the latest addition of VSOP Red Barrel, which after 58 years is taking over the reins to completely replace the old VSOP Medallion.

NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS NOVEMBER 2018 | 65

EVENTS

DE BORTOLI TURNS 90

Steve Webber, Paul Crowley, Emeri De Bortoli, Katherine Fogarty, Eola Cummins, Deb Jackson, Shane T Williams, Leah Crowley, Leanne De Bortoli, Warwick Brook

To celebrate De Bortoliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 90th anniversary, three generations of the De Bortoli family hosted a lunch at its picturesque winery in the Yarra Valley. The De Bortoliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s graciously opened up their cellar and guests were able to enjoy any De Bortoli wine of their choosing as well as the newly released Black Noble. It was a wonderful day spent hearing stories from the history of the family as told by Eola and Darren De Bortoli while enjoying delicious food and even better wine.

Melissa Johnston, Sean Diamond, David McCrea, Jason Lyons, Caitlyn Proctor, Sofie Heslin, Marianne Grace, Ctibor Bilik, Andrew Johnston

Warwick Brook, Sally & Kate De Bortoli Katherine Fogarty and Deb Jackson

66 | NOVEMBER 2018 NATIONAL LIQUOR NEWS

Warwick Brook, Paul & Leah Crowley, Marianne Grace, Deb Jackson, Katherine Fogarty

Melissa & Andrew Johnston, Paul & Leah Crowley, Deb Jackson, Katherine Fogarty, Warwick Brook, Marianne Grace, David McCrea

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National Liquor News November 2018

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