National Liquor News October 2021 by The Intermedia Group

AUSTRALIA’S LEADING LIQUOR INDUSTRY MAGAZINE

vol. 40 no. 9 - October 2021

If you’re not reading

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National Liquor News is the only independent, impartial, trade journal published in our industry today. In these tough times, more than ever, it’s critical to keep the lines of communication open and National Liquor News has both the readership and the journalistic integrity to achieve this.” CHRIS O’BRIEN G E N E R A L M A N AG E R , L I Q U O R B A R O N S

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National Liquor News is a great source of information as it brings together all the stories and issues from across this great industry. It packages up special interest, consumer trends, new product innovation, and current affairs all into the one easy-to-read format.” ANDREW WILSMORE C E O , A LC O H O L B E V E R AG E S A U S T R A L I A

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National Liquor News really is the fastest way to get your message across to the whole Australian liquor industry. It’s as important to our members as the Financial Review is to the business community. When you’re looking for answers on any liquor issue then it’s always the first port of call. Basically if it’s happening in the liquor industry then you can guarantee they are across it.” PETER PECK C E O , L I Q U O R S T O R E S AS S O C I AT I O N O F W E S T E R N A U S T R A L I A

then you’re not up to speed on the latest trends, NPD, new releases and best practice running a liquor store, but don’t take our word for it…we asked some of the industry what they think.

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National Liquor News delivers multiple purpose for me. The topical content on market trends and industry news helps us all to keep in touch with important information and in some cases, validates our promotional plans. It’s also a great platform to read the thoughts and opinions of our industry leaders on various topics across the national market.” VA U G H A N P E T E R S N AT I O N A L T R A D E M A N AG E R , L I Q U O R L E G E N D S

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We find National Liquor News to be a forum of valuable expertise between industry colleagues, inspiring each other in the journey to successful achievements. It is an effective medium to foster the co-operative’s mission with the publication’s extensive and esteemed following.” PA U L E S P O S I T O CEO, INDEPENDENT LIQUOR GROUP

S U B S C R I B E : shop.nationalliquornews.com.au A DV E R T I S E : Shane T Williams – stwilliams@intermedia.com.au E D I T O R I A L : Brydie Allen – ballen@intermedia.com.au

Editor’s note

Editor’s note Welcome to the massive October 2021 issue of National Liquor News.

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

Elsewhere in this issue, we’ve investigated the aperitivo occasion (from page 44), and the BYO

It’s almost unbelievable that we’re just a couple

occasion (from page 48).

months out from Christmas again. Things are only

Unfortunately, lockdown restrictions here in

going to get busier from here, as vaccination rates

Sydney postponed our wine tasting again this

climb across the country, restrictions begin to ease

month. We’ll be bringing your the rosé and

in locked down areas, and Australia keeps moving

sparkling tasting results before the end of the year,

towards a ‘new normal.’

but in the meantime, we asked our expert panel to

What that will look like for the off-premise

tell us what they’re drinking right now and why.

industry is still anyone’s guess, so it’s important to

As usual, in this issue we’ve also got all the

prepare for anything at this stage. To help you do

latest

this, we’ve deep dived into some trending categories

from our regular contributors Retail Drinks

in this issue, which are likely to go through peak

Australia, Alcohol Beverages Australia,

popularity times over spring and summer.

Strikeforce, Wine Australia, BrightSide, DrinkWise,

One such category that is booming is RTDs,

ne ws,

insig ht

and

analysis

and Perfectly Rieslingable.

with a slew of new products recently rolling out

I hope you enjoy this issue! Please do reach

ahead of the warmer months. Read about what’s

out with any feedback about what you’d like us

hot in that category, and what consumers are

to explore for the rest of the year, my inbox is

hoping for this season from page 59.

always open.

Another key category at the moment is sparkling wine, which Cindy Panzera dives into

Cheers,

from page 70. Meanwhile, Claire Hibbit reviews

Brydie Brydie Allen, Editor

minds of consumers across the country.

02 8586 6156

Publisher: Paul Wootton pwootton@intermedia.com.au Editor: Brydie Allen ballen@intermedia.com.au General Manager Sales – Liquor & Hospitality Group: Shane T. Williams stwilliams@intermedia.com.au Group Art Director – Liquor and Hospitality: Kea Thorburn kthorburn@intermedia.com.au Prepress: Tony Willson tony@intermedia.com.au Production Manager: Jacqui Cooper jacqui@intermedia.com.au Subscription Rates 1yr (11 issues) for $70.00 (inc GST) 2yrs (22 issues)for $112.00 (inc GST) – Saving 20% 3yrs (33 issues) for $147.00 (inc GST) – Saving 30% To subscribe and to view other overseas rates visit www.intermedia.com.au or Call: 1800 651 422 (Mon – Fri 8:30-5pm AEST) Email: subscriptions@intermedia.com.au

the opportunity around the tequila and agave segment, which continues to reinvent itself in the

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Sponsored Content

Unwavering dedication to improving member stores Australian Liquor Marketers (ALM) is continuing to boost the multifaceted ethos that drives several of its retailer improvement programs across the Independent Brands Australia (IBA) network. One of the biggest challenges for

as a range of in depth product and category

independent liquor retailers in Australia is

education modules.

competing with the big box supermarket

The results of IBA’s multifaceted

chains. Aside from the product price and

approach to supporting member stores

offering, large chain budgets also invest in

speak for themselves. Stores that have been

other areas of the stores, for example, with

through the refresh program have recorded

store refresh programs and staff education.

in excess of 22 per cent sales growth and no

Independent Brands Australia (IBA)

“We’re using our experience and our

negative impact to margin, while those who

is proving that it’s not just the chains that

knowledge to help each retailer across the

have utilised the Training Academy, even

can benefit from such strategy, thanks to

country be the best they can be.”

before its relaunch, have recorded generally

the many layers of programs dedicated at

Ritchie said that by bringing the retailer

improving stores in its network of retailers.

together with the specialist and their local

happier and more satisfied employees,

National Retail Operations Manager

Business Development Manager: “really

“We know shoppers are staying more local

for IBA Phil Ritchie, said a key component

reduces and almost completely removes

these days, so you need to have the best store

of this multifaceted approach was the

the need for a store to close its doors at all

in town. Because we have such diverse and

store refresh program. In this program, a

during a refit, which is super important

multifaceted programs to support our retailers,

dedicated Retail Development Specialist,

and means those retailers get to continue

I think that’s how we really set ourselves apart

of which there is at least one in each state,

to trade whilst this works carrying on.”

from our competitors,” Ritchie said.

leading to less staff turnover.

circulates through the network to help

But IBA’s support programs don’t stop there

“It’s not just about having competitive

identify areas of opportunity in an individual

– the group’s strategy to help stores improve

prices… there’s lots of different things that make

store and coordinate a refit accordingly.

also includes a comprehensive Training

shoppers tick. We support our members to be

“We have a dedicated program where

Academy, which has been rejuvenated and

competitive across marketing, promotions,

we are constantly improving the retail offer

expanded in the past 12 months to become

range and pricing with the added benefit of

across our entire network. That program

what Ritchie called: “the best independent

comprehensive retailer and staff support in-

is highly essential in making the physical

retail training program available.”

store. It’s about focusing on what the shopper

store feel comfortable, feel welcoming, and

The Training Academy includes courses

provide all of those category and product

on a huge and ever-increasing range of

needs for a shopper, to therefore keep them

topics, such as general operations, selling

coming back to our stores,” Ritchie said.

skills, staff safety and store security, as well

wants then supporting our retailers to be the most successful independents they can be.” Contact IBA for more information at info@iba.net.au

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October 2021 | 31

Retail Drinks Australia

Retail Drinks partners with St John Ambulance

Retail Drinks recently undertook a full day of first aid training at St John Ambulance in Sydney.

The new partnership will offer Retail Drinks members discounted first aid training, writes Michael Waters, CEO of Retail Drinks Australia.

Without a doubt, one of the most important life skills that anyone can know is how to save a life. Whilst it is always hoped that these skills will never need to be used, you can never know when they will come in handy. That’s why Retail Drinks is thrilled to announce that it has recently partnered with St John Ambulance, Australia’s leading provider of first aid services, training and equipment. Under this new partnership, Retail Drinks members will receive discounted access to both first aid training courses and lifesaving equipment such as defibrillators and first aid kits for the safety of their staff and their customers. This new partnership with St John is the latest way which members can receive value for the cost of a Retail Drinks membership. Retail Drinks’ own management team were put through their paces at St John Ambulance’s Sydney offices in June, with the team completing a full day first aid course. For most staff members, it was the first time they had received formal first aid training. Following the completion of this training, Retail Drinks replaced the first aid kits in our office and purchased a defibrillator from St John. We would strongly urge all of our members to take advantage of this offer today, ensuring that all of their staff are properly trained in first aid and that their stores are well-equipped with first aid equipment such as first aid kits and defibrillators. Further information regarding this offer can be found on our website or by calling our Member Hotline on 1300 451 213. 32 | National Liquor News

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“Retail Drinks members will receive discounted access to both first aid training courses and lifesaving equipment such as defibrillators and first aid kits for the safety of their staff and their customers.” Michael Waters CEO, Retail Drinks Australia

Liquor news straight to your inbox For the latest liquor retail news, subscribe to the National Liquor News e-newsletter

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Recruitment

Driving the conversation: Hiring top talent in 2021 Sue Lauritz and Amber King, Directors at BrightSide, explore how employers can best position themselves to attract candidates in the current climate. The challenge to attract talent is now a

Be up front from the outset regarding all

making process. In this market candidates

regular topic of conversation. Seek has

elements of the role, be prepared to address

are not moving ‘sideways’ (i.e. for the same

released data to support what we’re hearing

any candidate concerns head on and outline

level of responsibility and for the same salary),

from candidates – that they feel nervous

career development opportunities. A fast

regardless of how attractive the company is.

to change roles in the current climate. Job

process is also key, because candidates won’t

Take the time to work with your

security has become a priority. Many of

wait around. Also don’t ‘low ball’ strong

recruitment partner or your hiring team, to

our clients with strong employer brands

ensure they can talk clearly to the companies’

are struggling to fill roles that in the past,

culture, training, and career development.

they’ve been able to recruit seamlessly.

Our successful placements this year have been

The combination of a risk averse

attracted to the career development aspects of

market, border closures and people exiting

the role they’ve moved into. We’ve been able

the industry are putting pressure on the

to clearly articulate this, and our clients have

recruitment process. So how can we get around these issues? Employers who offer flexibility and who have strong brand awareness are more appealing. Candidates are more likely to entertain a conversation if the business has a strong positive profile in the industry. Word of mouth is incredibly important.

“Be up front from the outset regarding all elements of the role, be prepared to address any candidate concerns head on and outline career development opportunities.” Sue Lauritz and Amber King

supported it with discussing what training and support the candidate will receive. Provide good examples of your internal learning and development framework, as this clarity helps the candidate feel more secure about making the move. While financial gains count, so does your employer brand.

Directors BrightSide

Candidates are looking for long term moves

peers for their feedback when considering

candidates by offering a salary which is lower

opportunities in the business are crucial. It also

changing roles so it’s important for employers

than their expectations. Many employers are

gives you, the employer, something in return

to present a strong brand image and to

increasing salaries to help attract talent. We’re

for potentially paying a higher salary.

leverage testimonials where possible. Ensure

cautious in ensuring that financial gain is not

We look forward to sharing our predictions

your website and social media support how

the primary motivator for a candidate moving

on how the past year has impacted on the

you wish to be perceived in the market.

roles, however it is a key part of the decision-

future of work in our next article!

People will ask their friends, family and

34 | National Liquor News

so understanding what the longer-term

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Data

Data led decisions Data driven insights take the guess work out of decision making for retailers, writes Stephen Wilson, Category and Insights Manager at Strikeforce.

Continued market disruption has once again

merchandising, inventory management, forecasting

created an uncertain and unpredictable retail

and experiential services to increase return on

environment.

investment for retailers and suppliers alike.

Households are forced to ‘bunker down’ with

Store call cycles and types of activity, whether

only a few hours’ notice in some cases and retailers

featuring brands in off-location displays, sampling

are once again unsure what these seismic jolts to

product to shoppers or replenishing stock on the

a consistent flow of ‘regular’ trading will deliver.

shelf, are all designed and activated from data points

Off-premise stores are the backbone of the liquor

generated from brand activators, interrogated

industry when pubs and other venues are forced to

and then actioned in a structured, organised and

close their doors for an undetermined period of

targeted manner to drive optimal results.

time. So how do suppliers and retailers drive positive outcomes when the outlook is so unpredictable? Information and hard data are key in establishing the knowledge and understanding to

Stephen Wilson Category and Insights Manager Strikeforce

of how to best move forward with confidence and empowers retailers and brands to make short term strategic decisions.

confidently assess the current climate, interrogate

Integrating real time information from the field

historical sales achieved during 2020 and 2021

powers effective activation and drives sales revenue.

and forward plan for similar trading conditions

Connecting sales and field activation data

expected for the duration of lockdown.

“While data might not be a sexy topic for most, it enables an agile and flexible approach to ensuring that stock levels ebb and flow as required.”

Data driven insight takes the guess work out

sources to real-time movements provides the

A great example of the ‘lumpiness’ in trading

platform to improving on-shelf availability and

comes from the Australian Government website

which stores to prioritise. Vendor Replenishment

where for the period May 2020 to early February

Planning (VRP) or Vendor Managed Inventory

2021, Commonwealth Bank card spending

(VMI) services ensure stock is in the right place

on alcohol continued to be higher than in the

at the right time in front of the right shoppers

same weekly period for the previous year. The

through alignment of stock movement in the

proportional change in total alcohol spending

supply chain versus on-shelf availability.

when compared with the same weekly period in

While data might not be a sexy topic for

the previous year varied between four per cent and

most, it enables an agile and flexible approach to

24 per cent between May 2020 and February 2021.

ensuring that stock levels ebb and flow as required,

This increase was driven by spending on alcohol

providing retailers with the ability to flex up and

goods (such as bottle shops).

down as required to ensure positive cash flow

From a trade partnership perspective, data driven decisions are at the centre of support for in-store

outcomes and at the same time manage inventory and meet customer expectations.

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October 2021 | 35

Wine Australia

When less is more

There’s a huge opportunity for wine producers to jump on the increasing popularity of no and low alcohol products, writes Sandy Hathaway, Senior Analyst at Wine Australia.

No and low alcohol products seem to be attracting a lot of

drinkers are over-represented as consumers of no and low alcohol

attention lately. Attitudes towards non-consumption of alcohol

alternative drinks according to CGA.

are becoming much more positive and accepting, as evidenced

The challenge for wine producers will be to capture their share

by the numerous dry month initiatives and the #sobercurious

of this segment. At present, only 25 per cent of no and low alcohol

movement with its accompanying celebrity supporters. A bar

consumers in Australia choose no and low alcohol versions of wine

recently opened in Melbourne that claims to be ‘Melbourne’s

when they go out, compared with 39 per cent choosing beer and 31

first permanent non-alcoholic bar’ (although it does serve one

per cent cocktails.

alcoholic drink). Endeavour Group recently reported that sales

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for non-alcoholic drinks more than doubled in the 12 months to April 2021 and they have greatly increased the amount of floor space allocated to these products. In the scheme of things, the no and low alcohol segment of the drinks market is small. No and low alcohol wine products accounted for just 9.3 million cases globally in 2020 according to IWSR, which is less than half of one per cent of total consumption. However, the growth rate for this segment has been well above that of the total wine market. Between 2015 and 2020, the

Distribution of no and low alcohol alternative drinkers and average Australian consumers in Australian 2021, by age. Source: CGA published by Statista 2021

average annual growth rate was 25 per cent, and the growth rate forecast by IWSR for the next five years is 15 per cent per annum on average, compared with less than one per cent for total wine volume. Underpinning these figures is a global trend towards alcohol moderation, particularly among younger demographics. In Australia, 46 per cent of all regular wine drinkers and 56 per cent of 18 to 34 year olds report that they are actively moderating their alcohol intake, according to Wine Intelligence, and younger 36 | National Liquor News

Preferences for no/low alcohol drinks in Australia 2021 among no/low alcohol drinkers. Source: CGA published by Statista 2021

www.ampersand-projects.com hello@ampersand-projects.com

Online Retail

Liquor shoppers are spending more online New data from Fonto sheds some light on how shoppers are engaging with the liquor retail industry online.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic,

shoppers engage with liquor retailers online.

and pace. Essentially, it is more suited to

there has been a sizable shift to online

Although average spend differs between

the way people want to buy alcohol, which

retailing for many industries, especially

retailers, there are some elements that make

provides them with a feel good factor.”

those that were forced to shut.

customers want to spend more at certain

Further key numbers about online liquor

While the off-premise liquor industry has

types of stores. What’s interesting is that a

retail uncovered by Fonto in this research

been able to keep operating physical stores

large amount of these elements are related

include:

under pandemic restrictions, this online

to the physical store itself, as many online

• 63 per cent of shoppers are making greater

shift has still impacted liquor retail. New data

shoppers aren’t choosing to shop online

from Fonto has identified what areas have

solely to avoid the store.

been impacted, illustrating how shoppers are engaging with the industry online.

“Online spend at stand alone format

use of online ordering options for alcohol • 62 per cent like to browse online as they can take more time to consider their options

stores is 67 per cent higher than smaller,

• 46 per cent browse multiple websites

One of the biggest findings from

mall-based or attached to supermarket

before deciding where to place an order

Fonto about the online liquor sector, is

format stores. This is primarily due to

for alcohol

that shoppers spend 74 per cent more

click-and-collect being twice as popular

These points show the importance of

online than they do in-store. However, the

as delivery. Hence, the increased product

building a competitive online component

amount of liquor sales made online remains

offering combined with the convenience

into a store’s offering.

relatively small, accounting for 26 per cent

of being able to wheel a trolley directly

As O’Loughlin said: “Online ordering

of purchases.

to the car at Dan Murphy’s or First

and seamless click-and-collect is a good

Choice translates to more dollars spent,”

route to building customer retention. If the

O’Loughlin said.

online ordering process is made really easy

Jon O’Loughlin, Head of Client Development at Fonto, said: “COVID-19 has permanently changed the way we shop.

“Online gives customers more options and

Alcohol is no different, however, the rate of

allows them to browse at their convenience

and click-and-collect works as intended, customers will keep coming back.”

online purchase adoption has been lower in the alcohol sector (than other sectors such as electrical products, stationery and take-away food), as bricks and mortar liquor stores have remained open during lockdowns. “When consumers place an order online, they want to make it worth their while. So, where they buy a case of wine in bricks and mortar stores, the same person may buy

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Introducing Fonto Fonto offers a unique way to understand consumers, by directly linking behavioural and perception data, creating a far more accurate and insightful picture of what Australians are thinking, feeling and doing, removing many of the frustrations that have surrounded traditional market research. Through wholly owned data assets, it connects what people have bought with the ability to conduct research to understand why they behaved that way. With transactional information from over 30 consumer categories, Fonto gives clients and partners a unique means of

two cases of wine and a case of beer when

measuring market share, category dynamics, impact of promotional activity and in-

ordering online.”

the-moment understanding of customer experience.

Fonto’s research has also shown how 38 | National Liquor News

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DrinkWise

DrinkWise, NSW Police, the NRL and Liquor Accords partner for NRL Finals message Simon Strahan, CEO of DrinkWise, talks about the organisation’s latest initiative.

Following the successful collaborations to deliver alcohol moderation messages during the early stages of the pandemic, DrinkWise has again taken a whole-of-community approach to campaign development. Faced with some members of the community yet to heed to the messages around responsible alcohol consumption and the broader need to respect one

“Always respect, always DrinkWise is another example of the benefits of bringing together often diverse partners for the common good.” Simon Strahan CEO DrinkWise

another, DrinkWise, NSW Police and Liquor Accords have come together to develop a new campaign – Always respect, always DrinkWise – to coincide with the NRL Finals Series. DrinkWise then leveraged its partnership with the NRL to secure their support and gain the participation of two NRL stars, Penrith’s Matt Burton and Sydney Roosters’ NRLW captain Corban Baxter, to help deliver the message. This collaboration is a timely reminder about the importance of moderation and showing respect to those around us in an effort to curb excessive consumption and make it clear that violence is never acceptable.

Faces of the campaign As part of the Always respect, always DrinkWise

The campaign launched with coverage on Channel Seven’s Sunrise and

campaign, Burton and

evening news, along with coverage in The Daily Telegraph and industry

Baxter have recorded

publications. The message will also be heard on radio, seen on social media

messages to NRL fans.

and displayed within venues associated with Hastings, Nambucca Valley and Macleay Valley Liquor Accords. Always respect, always DrinkWise is another example of the benefits of bringing together often diverse partners for the common good.

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Burton, who made his finals debut this year, said the campaign’s message is something he’s passionate about. “The NRL finals series is an exciting time, with expectations about which team will reign supreme after a long and turbulent season,” he said. “Corban and I are proud to be supporting this important initiative from DrinkWise and NSW Police, to remind community members to focus on what’s important by looking out for those closest to them and if choosing to drink alcohol to do it in moderation.”

40 | National Liquor News

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https://www.facebook.com/spiritsplatform

https://www.instagram.com/spirits_platform/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/spirits-platform

NZ Wine Insights

New Zealand Winegrowers 2021 Annual Report:

The year in review

Escarpment Vineyard. Credit: NZW Inc

The national organisation for New Zealand’s grape and wine industry recently released its annual report, writes Natalie Grace, Founder of Perfectly Rieslingable. Ten years ago, the New Zealand wine industry

per cent), Merlot (2.8 per cent) and Riesling

set out to double the value of its wine exports

(1.2 per cent). All varieties experienced

to NZD $2 billion per year. A decade on, the

production decreases from the previous year

country’s wine producers realised that objective

with Marlborough’s shortfall contributing

with exports reaching $2.01 billion for the first

to the 18 per cent drop in Sauvignon Blanc

time in the year ending December 2020.

harvested across the country in 2021.

Recent supply constraints have seen this figure slip back to $1.87 billion for the year

Exports

to June 2021 and the ‘small, but perfect’ 2021

Almost a third (32 per cent) of New

vintage may hamper growth opportunities

Zealand’s wine exports head to the United

for the next 12-18 months. New Zealand

States ($589 million) followed by the UK

producers experienced a 19 per cent drop in

($449 million), Australia ($380 million) and

the tonnage of grapes harvested compared to

Canada ($113 million). Average FOB price

vintage 2020 which has led to an increase in

per litre for these lead countries is $7.34,

supply and demand tension and a reported

$5.61, $5.77 and $10.21 respectively.

shortfall equivalent of around seven million nine litre cases.

Source: New Zealand Wine – 2021 Vintage Survey

Taking a closer look at Australia, Sauvignon Blanc accounts for 75 per cent

The average yield was 9.2 per cent, down

of New Zealand’s export volume across the

by almost 20 per cent on the 2020 harvest

ditch followed by Pinot Gris (eight per cent),

with regions in the centre of the country

Pinot Noir (six per cent), Sparkling (four per

most impacted by frost damage and poor

cent), Rose (two per cent) and Chardonnay

Australia is currently the lead source for

flowering weather. Wairarapa, Nelson,

(two per cent).

New Zealand’s wine imports at a value of

Marlborough and North Canterbury all

$121.324 million representing 49 per cent

experienced crop reduction of between 20

Domestic market

per cent and 33 per cent in 2021.

Back on home soil, domestic sales and

The 2021 New Zealand Winegrowers

Sauvignon Blanc dominates as the key

consumption decreased slightly for both

Annual Report and the 2021 Annual

variety with 74.8 per cent of total production,

New Zealand wine to 49.2 million litres and

Vintage Survey is available on the New

followed by Chardonnay (6.6 per cent),

9.6 litres per capita, as well as all wine to

Zealand Winegrowers website via the News

Pinot Noir (6.1 per cent), Pinot Gris (5.9

90.2 million litres and 17.7 litres per capita.

and Media section.

42 | National Liquor News

of total imports.

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https://www.linkedin.com/company/spirits-platform

Bonal image credit: Melvin Haxaire-Christophe

Retailing Aperitivo

Aperitivo hour Australian consumers are learning more about creating the perfect aperitivo hour moments from home, and looking for inspiration to do so.

The aperitivo occasion is one that has been gaining popularity in Australia in recent years. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, many consumers enjoyed the Italian culture’s pre-meal ritual at venues, traditionally with carbonated, bitter and lower alcohol mixed drinks

Australian Alps

Sorrento Spritz

Ingredients

missed cocktail experiences of all kinds, and increasingly began

60ml Bonal

60ml Villa Massa

experimenting with how they could recreate them at home. Now,

100ml PS40 Bush Tonic (or

60ml Prosecco

other quality tonic water)

1 splash of soda water

home mixology which they will continue to utilise for the foreseeable

Orange wedge to garnish

Lemon wheel

future during events in their own homes or others, creating their

Method

own aperitivo hours anywhere they like.

1. B uild over ice in a

such as spritzes. When the pandemic hit the country and venues shut, consumers

18 months later, Australian consumers have gained new skills in

As a greater number of these experienced and curious home bartenders explore the shelves of their local liquor stores, there is a prime opportunity for retailers to share their knowledge and inspire consumers to try new aperitif products, especially as the weather warms.

An aperitivo climate While the aperitivo occasion comes from Italy, there are several reasons that it has been working so well in Australia. Joe Molinari, General Manager of Combined Wines, said: “With Italian restaurants being the favourite food style of restaurant goers, it is easy to replicate the aperitivo occasion in Australia. “Our warmer weather 10 months of the year and our many outdoor establishments mean there is a growing market for cocktails, and the aperitif brands are one of the favourite ingredients.” Outdoor social events are some of the most popular places for consumers to observe aperitivo tradition, and therefore the peak consumption time is naturally the spring and summer months we’re currently in. Mungo Gilchrist, CEO of Spirits Platform, described what Australian consumers look to get out of the occasion in these seasons, namely: “Elegant low alcohol drinks that whet the appetite and are perfect as a sociable summer drink with salty or savoury snacks before dinner, at a brunch or barbeque. 44 | National Liquor News

Fresh basil leaves Method

highball glass

1. A dd Villa Massa, Prosecco

2. G arnish with an

and soda water to a wine

orange wedge

glass over ice 2. A dd lemon and basil and gently stir

Retailing Aperitivo

“Aperitivi conjure up images of long summer days, and relaxed occasions with family and friends - without getting drunk!”

The opportune moment The opportunity for retailers when it comes to aperitif products has multiple angles. One of the biggest strategies is education, to support a relatively new occasion and inspire consumers to explore new categories. Gilchrist said: “Aperitivo culture has been part of the Italian ‘dolce vita’ way of life for centuries, but this is still a fairly new trend in Australia. There are many simple serves and education can help to demystify aperitivi and encourage consumers to experiment.” Gemma Eastwood, Marketing Manager for Liquor at Stuart Alexander and Co, said the versatility and unique offering of the aperitivo occasion is a draw for younger generations of adult. The retailer role of educator becomes even more important in these situations where the consumer is not familiar with the specifics of the occasion, to help communicate what is possible with aperitifs. “This new generation of aperitifs is bringing brighter, fresher flavours to the fore, which complement the Aussie food and beverage culture. Their low ABV nature and versatility make them so easy to mix, easy to drink and easy to pair with spirits such as gin for a new spin on popular classics such as the Negroni. They also provide an element of discovery – something new and different - which is a key purchase trigger for younger consumers,” Eastwood said. By highlighting things like cocktail recipes and food pairings in-store, retailers can inspire more customer exploration and therefore, bigger basket sizes. Creating easy buy packs with all the ingredients to craft new aperitivo hour cocktails is one simple way to do this, tapping into

Fiorente Spritz Ingredients

Starlino Orange and Tonic

50ml Fiorente Elderflower

Ingredients

Liqueur

1 part Starlino Orange

100ml Prosecco

Aperitivo

50ml Soda water

3 parts tonic water

2 thin lime wedges

Orange slice to garnish

Mint leaves to garnish Method 1. P our all ingredients over ice in a wine glass 2. S queeze in the fresh lime

the shopper desires for convenience, value and exploration at once.

Method 1. A dd Starlino Orange aperitivo to glass over ice 2. T op with tonic water and garnish with orange slice

and garnish with mint

Whatever approach is taken in-store in this regard, the final and most integral piece of the puzzle is ensuring staff are also on board, and understand the possibilities of the occasion, which for summer, can really be endless.

■

Summer Refresh

The Original Venetian Spritz

Ingredients

30ml Vecchio Amaro del Capo

3 parts Prosecco

30ml Licorice liqueur

2 parts Select Aperitivo

30ml Tonic water

1 splash soda water

Sprig of mint to garnish

1 large green olive to garnish

Method

1. Combine all ingredients in a

1. Pour cold Prosecco into wine glass

highball glass with ice 2. Garnish with a sprig of mint

over ice 2. Add Select, a splash of soda water and gently stir 3. Garnish with a large green olive October 2021 | 45

Retailing Aperitivo

In the mix

Get your customers inspired for their own aperitivo hours at home with these products.

Starlino Orange Aperitivo Starlino Orange Aperitivo is the next generation Italian aperitif, crafted in Torino, Italy, the birthplace

Bonal

of modern vermouth. With

Bonal is one of many French

citrus flavours and tropical

aperitifs born in the 19th century when religion and medicine were creating various products using wine and spirit, mixed with plants and spices. Monsieur Bonal, a priest, started his recipe

bright, zesty bittersweet notes, it matches perfectly with ice cold tonic for a fresh twist on the classic G&T. Distributor: Stuart Alexander & Co.

with Mistelle macerated with both quinine and gentian (a flowered bush from the hills in the south of France), as well as numerous other botanicals. Distributor: Cerbaco

Select Select was created in 1920 in the Castello district of Venice. When the popularity of the aperitif began to spread, the Spritz soon became a favorite, establishing Select as the star of the Venetian cocktail scene. Today Select is enjoyed in more than 50 countries, with a recipe that blends 30 botanicals to create a balanced aromatic bitter liquid, and the essential ingredient for the Original Venetian Spritz. Distributor: Spirits Platform

46 | National Liquor News

Retailing Aperitivo

Fiorente

Vecchio Amaro del Capo

Fiorente is the first international brand

This award winning liqueur comes from

of Italian elderflower liqueur and is

Italian producer Distilleria Fratelli Caffo,

named after the Roman goddess of

and is sweet on the nose, with a dense and

flowering plants. With a lower sugar

creamy body and softness on the palate.

content than most on the market,

Warm floral tones of honey, spices and

Fiorente only uses natural ingredients in

pastry develop into cooked fruit and toasted

the creation of the liquid at its carbon-

caramel notes which finishes with a slight

neutral distillery, from the elderflowers,

bitter hint, reflective of the multifaceted

to fresh mint leaves, Sicilian lemon

personality of the liquid.

juice and honey. Distributor: Combined Wines Distributor: Spirits Platform

Villa Massa Villa Massa still adheres to its traditional family recipe that uses only the peels of organically grown Sorrento Lemons, purified water, top-quality alcohol, and sugar to produce its Limoncello. By using these finest quality ingredients and expert blending techniques, Villa Massa has grown to become the market leader amongst Limoncello producers and has won a multitude of awards along the way. Distributor: Spirits Platform October 2021 | 47

Retailing BYO

What’s the go with

BYO? When consumers are shopping for BYO social events, what are they looking for? We take a deep dive with Growth Scope data to find out.

After a pretty tumultuous 18 months, there’s nothing quite like getting together with those you love the most. Whether you’ve been in lockdown recently or not, social events and what they offer are being appreciated just that little bit more across the country. And when these events happen outside of venues, specifically at the homes of friends and family, the usual ritual is to BYO, i.e. bring your own drinks. A combination of easing restrictions, warming weather, the end of the year and the festive season is set to give rise to an increased amount of social events in the coming months. And according to Growth Scope data, 28 per cent of events in spring and summer fit into the BYO shopping occasion. This makes understanding the nuances of the occasion quite important right now, in order for liquor stores to give great experiences to social butterfly customers and therefore build loyalty, trust and satisfaction.

48 | National Liquor News

Retailing BYO

Reason for the season

Nowicki continued describing some of the lower

When customers are shopping for the BYO occasion,

scoring feelings and thoughts, which indicated the

they are seeking drinks to take with them to a social

overall sentiment that: “I’m not here to show off, I’m

gathering at the home of a friend or family member.

not here to take risks, this is not about romance, and it’s

Growth Scope data reveals that these gatherings most

not important that I feel confident,” showing different

commonly bring together large groups of people in

emotional needs are serviced by BYO occasions.

a casual setting. “On this occasion, there’s lots of people. Rather

Winners of the occasion

than being just ‘me and one other’, it’s two or three

In terms of what consumers are specifically drinking

others on 25 per cent of occasions, four to seven other

during BYO occasions, beer is the winner, consumed

people on 31 per cent of occasions and more than

at 43 per cent of occasions. This is followed by spirits

eight people on 32 per cent of occasions,” said Andrew

at 39 per cent, red wine at 27 per cent, still white wine

Nowicki, Director at Growth Scope.

at 23 per cent and sparkling wine at 23 per cent.

“The top 10 reasons for the occasion are to spend

The most frequently consumed beverage types

time and catch up with friends, eat a meal, celebrate a

at these occasions however are beer and red wine,

holiday and spend time with family. What’s interesting

which Nowicki believes complements the main

and polarising about these events is that they are most

activities undertaken at these casual events, such

often either regular [and happening quite often],

as eating a meal. When it comes to format, most

which I’d imagine would be the case for families and

people are opting for regular sized bottles for wine

close friend groups, or irregular, happening yearly

and stubbies for beer.

or half yearly.”

Age and gender also plays a part in what products

The atmosphere at these events is casual and the

people are looking for in these occasions. For example,

energy level is moderate, indicating people feel very

more females choose categories such as vodka, rosé

comfortable and that they can ‘let their hair down’ on

and sparkling wine, while more males choose Scotch

such an occasion. Nowicki said this is quite different

whisky and beer. Meanwhile, there’s a fairly equal

to more formal occasions such as work functions or

split on bourbon and Shiraz, as well as a smaller gap

weddings, where people feel as if they are more ‘on show’.

between genders specifically for French Champagne.

He said that people at these occasions have a

In terms of some of the age demographic stats,

“positive sentiment,” with the most common feelings

Nowicki said: “For cider, 60 per cent of drinkers

and thoughts being: “I feel bright, I want to make the

are under 40, whereas when we go to full strength

moment special, I want to be reminded of good times,

Australian beer, its more 50/50. Mid strength beer has

I want to feel rewarded and treated.”

a higher incidence of younger people, and international

“Value for money goes down the ranking here. When people go to these social events, they buy what they like to drink, or buy what they buy every time.” Andrew Nowicki Director Growth Scope

October 2021 | 49

Retailing BYO

What is Growth Scope? Growth Scope democratises access to consumer and shopper insights for small, medium and large industry suppliers, manufacturers and retailers. It exists to assist businesses to achieve their organic growth potential by affordably arming them with market-ready insights in an easy to use and digest format, covering the who, what, when, where, why and how much of liquor consumption and purchase in Australia. It also assists businesses in identifying their where to play and how to win choices by synthesising otherwise inaccessible and complex data into easy to interpret frameworks.

beer is older, likely because they have more money. Elsewhere, bourbon

they buy every time. Loyalty and imagery is a much more important

is older, whiskey is younger and vodka even moreso.”

factor in brand choice than price for these occasions,” said Nowicki.

Growth Scope data also compares the availability of a beverage

“When people buy just before consumption, the cold six pack or

type at an event, and how suitable a person thinks that beverage is

chilled bottle of wine for example, they pay on average 20 per cent

for the occasion. This is interesting as it highlights some disparities

more than if they were to buy the ambient product for pantry stocking.

between the shopper and the consumer, especially at group events

There is an inverse relationship between the price paid and the gap

where they aren’t always the same person. To find this data, Growth

between purchase and consumption - the most expensive drink you’ll

Scope gets consumers to answer whether a type of drink was available

ever buy is the drink at the bar that you’ll drink straight away. The

at a BYO event, and whether they think it was a suitable choice to

cheapest will be the product you buy six months in advance because

drink at said event.

you come across a really great deal.”

A huge finding in this regard, according to Nowicki, is that:

With all these factors in mind, one of the biggest takeaways for

“More people think sparkling wine is suitable for these events

Nowicki surrounds the opportunity to upsell shoppers into key BYO

than the amount that is available. This tells me that even though

categories, for example, with sparkling wine.

sparkling wine is big for these events, there is more opportunity.

“The key ‘aha’ moment for me out of this whole analysis is that

If people were more motivated to bring sparkling wine to these

people go to these events, they buy on the way, they’re buying a single

events, more people would drink it.”

bottle, probably chilled, at a price premium, typically through a [local liquor store], but for some reason they’re not picking sparkling. The

Shopper behaviour

opportunity is to emphasise and focus on creating growth here,”

The key findings when it comes to shopper behaviour around the

Nowicki said.

BYO occasion surrounds pricing, convenience and loyalty.

“From a retail perspective, the value uplift they can get from this

“For these occasions, people just buy on the day. It over indexes

shopping occasion is substantial. The move from a $20 six-pack to

significantly as an impulse purchase… As for reason for purchase,

a $20 six-pack, and a $60 bottle of French Champagne, which is

40 per cent of people were planning for an event, so this type of

appropriate for the occasion, would triple or quadruple the average

consumption occasion drives a unique shopper mission,” Nowicki said.

basket for this occasion,” said Nowicki.

And while on that mission, shoppers are less likely to be swayed

“So there is an opportunity for retailers that focus on convenience

by pricing and promotions, as people are more willing to pay for a

occasions to open up their display, not their price promotion, and

specific product, pre chilled, and ready to go.

better merchandise sparkling wine during the summer months,

“Value for money goes down the ranking here. When people go to these social events, they buy what they like to drink, or buy what 50 | National Liquor News

to pick up on this occasion, increase basket size and drive growth around the category.”

■

Sustainability Trends

IRI research reveals

sustainability ‘mega trends’ The research has identified trends and opportunity in the wider retail space, showing shoppers are increasingly choosing eco-friendly options.

New research from IRI has analysed the

impacts decisions about where shoppers choose

• R educe: Provide practical steps for

behaviour of shoppers over the past 12

to buy. Bone said that shoppers that “proactively

shoppers to reduce their carbon

months, revealing a lot about their purchasing

seek environmentally friendly products” are

footprint. Incorporate less carbon

patterns in relation to sustainability.

more likely to be conscious of the sustainability

intensive materials/processes (including

Daniel Bone, Insights Director for IRI Asia Pacific, said: “Our research shows

credentials of retailers, and therefore choose to shop at certain outlets over others.

packaging). • Remove: Embrace digital substitutes and

that Australian shoppers do care about

“This demonstrates that manufacturers

remove material collateral. Eradicate non-

sustainability and they are actively making

and retailers not only need to understand

essential packaging, especially plastics, and

purchasing decisions based on their

the complexities and characteristics of

explore refill options. Lead the way with

concerns - 55 percent of those surveyed try

a sustainability mindset, they must also

packaging-free items.

to buy environmentally friendly products.”

be able to respond through action in a

• R elationships: Share sustainability

One of the key areas that was raised

meaningful way to attract a greater share of

learnings and pursue brand/community

shoppers’ spend,” said Bone.

collaborations and industry initiatives that

throughout all demographics of shoppers was packaging, as this is one of the biggest things associated with sustainability. “Packaging stands out because it is often a shopper’s first and last sustainability cue,” Bone explained.

“Nearly 50 percent of shoppers state

foster sustainable practice

that it is quite important to them that the

• Range: Make sustainable choices easier

outlet they shop with offers a range of

through a transparent and curated range,

sustainable products.

and boost approachability through

“To continue to drive growth, it is

accessible prices.

“Sixty-eight percent of shoppers connect

critical for retailers and brands to focus

• R eassure: Share stories about your

packaging with sustainability. Interestingly,

on supporting shoppers through seven key

sustainable efforts and develop a measure

they also prioritise waste reduction. When we

areas of action. We call them the seven Rs of

of basket/brand sustainability, to inspire

asked shoppers to pick the top three things

sustainability and they have been developed

and assure customers.

they most closely associate with sustainability,

by IRI through an extensive process of

• R epresentation: Celebrate Australia’s

53 percent said their number one issue is

analysis, consultation and market testing,

diverse industries by enabling marginalised

reducing by-product/waste, followed by

to provide businesses with a clear road map

members of society, championing better

minimising environmental impact at 47

on how to meet the needs of shoppers with

standards across the industry including

percent and thirdly, a commitment to using

a sustainability mindset.”

supply chains and lead through action

renewable resources at 38 percent.”

These Rs include:

and advocacy.

In addition to showing that shoppers let

• Recycle: Aim for 100 per cent recyclable

For more information about these areas

sustainability dictate what products they buy,

packaging and in-store POS materials, and

of opportunity or the sustainability research,

the research illustrates how sustainability also

divert and repurpose waste.

contact IRI.

■

October 2021 | 51

Tequila and Agave Spirits

A new era for

tequila The changing perception of tequila is creating significant opportunities for brands and retailers alike, writes Claire Hibbit.

The pandemic and subsequent lockdowns across the country have led to a newfound exploration of tequila, according to some of the industry’s leading brands. Alongside this, public perception of tequila is also changing. Low quality mixtos have hampered the category’s success and image in the past, but thanks to a collective effort to better educate consumers, they are developing a more refined and critical palate. Paolo Marinoni, Marketing Director of Campari Australia, which distributes Espolòn, believes it is a very exciting time for tequila in Australia. “The category appears to be growing from strength to strength, with no sign of slowing. I think Australian consumers have appreciated the complexity of taste and the authentic Mexican stories that go with it,” he said. “It really feels like tequila is going through a perceptual change in this country with many people overcoming the bad perceptions that they may have had from bad prior experiences with mainstream tequilas.” According to IRI, the tequila category is worth $145 million and has significantly high growth – two times the rate of total spirits. James France, Director at Vanguard Luxury Brands, the Australian distributor of tequila brands such as Fortaleza, said while there is solid growth across all premium sectors of most spirits, tequila’s growth is above the norm, albeit from a low base. “The tequila (and agave category itself) is on fire,” states France. “It’s taken about 20 years for this ‘overnight’ success but it’s fantastic to see so many high-quality brands out there, and consumers responding so well to them.”

Drivers of growth According to IRI data, tequila still dominates in the 52 | National Liquor News

Tequila and Agave Spirits

wider agave spirit category, and most tequila types are reporting strong growth.

Spirits Specialist, Hayley Dixon, said: “Interestingly, according to IWSR data, growth of 100 per cent

Reposado still has the strongest dollar share of

agave tequila topped sales of mixto tequila for the

tequila (26.6 per cent) and is seeing strong dollar

second year running in 2020, reflecting the wider

growth (+41.7 per cent value growth), while silver

premiumisation trend that we’ve seen across all

tequila is leading the way for value growth (+51.8 per

spirits. While most spirits categories got a bump

cent vs YA) alongside blanco tequila (+50.4 per cent

in 2020, agave continues to grow year on year, with

value growth).

premium brand 1800 Tequila growing well ahead of

Richard Dredge, Brand Manager at Brown-Forman,

the category.”

distributor of Herradura, said: “Tequila has overtaken

This premiumisation trend is one of the biggest

gin as the fastest growing category in glass spirits at

things driving such great performance for tequila,

+37 per cent with the highest growth coming from

seeing consumers explore more interesting types of

the super premium segment growing at +55 per cent!

products within the category.

Australians are definitely gaining an appreciation for

Frost said: “The more adventurous are also looking

tequila, whether in a Margarita, a delicious Paloma,

to different agave types (mezcals and to a lesser extent

or a simple tequila and soda.”

sotol). Some flavours are also trending as consumers

Luke Frost, General Manager of Proof Drinks, the Australian distributor of Cazcabel Tequila, similarly said 2020 was a breakout year for the category.

look to put a spin on a classic cocktail or their favourite tropical cocktail.” Trent Fraser, President of Top Shelf International,

“Gin still remains very strong, but as consumers

which is currently in the midst of its huge Australian

look to the next trend, tequila is coming to the

Agave Project, said premium exploration like this is

forefront. Cazcabel is already benefiting from the

on the rise.

excitement and interest in the category with solid sales

“The premiumisation of the category also

across the range since its launch, especially with the

continues to soar as consumers begin to understand

reposado and honey SKUs,” he said.

agave better and the aspirational highly priced brands

Proximo Spirits, which has a number of tequila

“All the data is showing that we’re looking to have a more enjoyable drinking experience with tequila rather than seeing it purely as a shot brand, where we’re not as fussed about quality.” Andy Milne Brand Manager SouthTrade International

on the market,” he said.

brands in its Australian distribution portfolio, saw a

Andy Milne, Brand Manager at SouthTrade

lot of this growth in 2020 driven by the higher end

International, which distributes Corazón tequila in

of the scale.

Australia, explained that this understanding comes

October 2021 | 53

Tequila and Agave Spirits

“Brands that clearly communicate their unique processes, the use of premium ingredients and provenance have more loyal consumers.” Joseph Chisholm Brand Ambassador Bacardi-Martini Australia

from consumers experimenting with tequila

retailers broadening their range and cocktail

The other challenge that is on the

at home and learning what they like.

menus to capture the interest of consumers

radar of many in the industry right now is

who are seeking to explore the category,”

potential supply constraints. This includes

Chisholm explains.

the logistical issues stemming from COVID

“There’s been a boom in tequila consumption at home, whereas previously we were going into venues and having

“Within this, there will be further

and also the well-publicised agave shortage

Margaritas and Palomas. [Back then]

opportunities to develop discernment of the

due to the sharp increase in global demand.

mixing at home was less complicated or

segment through educating tequila drinkers

It takes more than seven years for most

used much more simple mainstream mixers

about the intrinsic quality (provenance,

styles of agave plant to reach the maturity

and mainstream tequila. I think in that

production), image discovery (age statements,

level needed before harvest for tequila

desire to replicate that bar serve at home,

qualities), and versatility (cocktails, long

production, making it hard for farmers to

we’ve got a lot more discerning in terms

drinks and sipping) of tequila.”

keep up with growing demand.

of actually picking out quality flavor and quality produce and ingredients,” he said. From this, consumers are willing to

As Dixon said, another opportunity for

Another risk for the category could come

the category will come from innovation of

from the increased celebrity endorsement in

producers who are willing to take risks.

tequila, which Marinoni said could risk the

therefore pay more for products with great

“As a whole, the industry continues to

true authentic stories behind tequila.

stories, according to Joseph Chisholm,

gain popularity and we are seeing a lot more

“We are excited about the attention

Brand Ambassador at Bacardi-Martini

distillers willing to take risks with new,

that these people are bringing to the

Australia, distributor of Patrón.

innovative products,” she said.

category, however, we believe it is crucial

“Brands that clearly communicate their

However, Chisholm notes there are also

to keep telling authentic tequila stories

unique processes, the use of premium

several major challenges for the tequila

and celebrating the makers of premium

ingredients and provenance have more

category. Firstly, the segment is in its infancy

tequila,” he said.

loyal consumers. Patrón, carefully crafted

in Australia, so the turn rates of products

He also warns demand could outstrip

additive-free using time-honoured

will be slower than that of more established

supply, and said: “A little like what we saw

techniques and only the finest ingredients,

segments like vodka or gin.

when Scotch whisky had a couple of years

is exemplar in this category,” he said.

“This may make some retailers and

of amazing growth, there is a risk where

venues hesitant to support extending

demand could outstrip supply. I think we are

Opportunities and challenges

their tequila range, so as to not over-invest

likely to see a constraint on supply from all

According to Chisholm, the boom for tequila

capital and space on products which may

manufacturers in the next couple of years until

is well and truly here, creating significant

not give the return immediately. This will

supply and production can catch up to global

opportunities, but also posing challenges as

likely result in a disconnect of interest to

demand, especially that of the US market.

the Australian market catches up with more

availability around the whole network,

“Recognising this trend early, we have

mature markets such as the US.

leading to shoppers and consumers needing

worked hard to remain at the forefront of the

to shop around to find the products they

industry and secure supply to ensure we can

are looking for.”

meet the growing demand in the category.”

“The biggest opportunity is driving the accessibility of tequila, with venues and 54 | National Liquor News

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Tequila and Agave Spirits

Agave spirits boom According to David De Vries, Co-founder and Head Distiller at Echuca Distillery in Victoria, agave spirits outside of officially named tequila are booming globally. “In the US [it] is up almost 16 per cent in volume last year, overtaking rum as the third largest spirit category behind vodka and whisky,” said De Vries. “By contrast, Australia is mostly in the research, development and investment stage. Hundreds of thousands of blue agave plants have been planted in northern Queensland coming online over the next couple of years

“As a whole, the industry continues to gain popularity and we are seeing a lot more distillers willing to take risks with new, innovative products.” Hayley Dixon Spirits Specialist Proximo Spirits

making agave a new boom craft spirit.” De Vries said Echuca Distillery’s

And, while the challenge for Australian

these plants flourish and ultimately produce

mission is to be at the forefront of agave

agave is maintaining quality and production,

a stunning, regionally expressive spirit

spirit production in Australia. It currently

there’s plenty of opportunity for venues and

indicative of Australian terroir.

produces eight gins, four vodkas, and four

retailers “to support from their side of the

varieties of agave spirit. It also recently

bar,” according to the pair.

purchased a canning line to produce a range of agave-based RTDs. “Craft distilling is relatively young in

“We have a very exciting and unique consumer proposition that will lean into

“When there are more distilleries producing

the next chapter of agave. Like wine, which

agave, it makes the whole Australian agave

is no longer considered to be the exclusive

scene more visible and accessible.”

domain of France, we foresee the same thing

Australia. Echuca Distillery was around the

Similarly, Fraser anticipates further

to happen for agave outside of Mexico. I can

80th distillery in the country. Now, there are

entrants to the market, but says strong,

assure the spirit is going to be spectacular

more than 400 and therefore it is imperative

credible brands will be the ones to stand out.

because we are highly committed to

that we keep aware of the latest trends both

“The category has seen a lot of players

local and global,” he said.

craftsmanship and the process.”

flood the market, which we often refer to as

“Our obvious challenge is we cannot call

the ‘Clooney effect’. With this comes some

A collaborative approach

this product tequila. So, ‘agave spirit’ it is

saturation but also consumer confusion.

In order to deliver on consumer expectations,

for now unless the Australian craft spirits

I foresee continued competitiveness but

retailers need to ensure they are selecting

industry as a collective comes up with

also evolution, with strong, authentic, and

quality products which deliver on perceived

something new in the future.”

credible brands rising above the noise and

value for money, according to Chisholm.

Rosemary Smith and Stephen Beale,

challenges,” he said.

This can be encouraged by product

Owners of Black Snake Distillery in regional

Top Shelf is currently developing its

demonstrations and tastings, educating

NSW which produces a small range of agave

Australian Agave Project and is on track

consumers about the versatile ways ultra-

spirits, said there are very few Australian agave

to launch an Australian agave spirit brand

premium tequila can be used.

spirits available now, but within six months to a

at scale in 2023. Its agave farm is the only

“Visual content and engagement with

year, they believe more will make it to market.

one of its kind in Australia and according to

brand owners is another great way to educate

“There is always skepticism surrounding

Fraser, is the largest one outside of Mexico.

and bring to life key selling features for each

agave being produced outside of Mexico,

“We are thrilled with the progress of the

tequila – such as their commitment to using

however, Australia is not the only contender.

Australian Agave Project. Our not-so-young

zero additives and using only the finest

New Zealand, South Africa, and India are

agaves now are thriving at our farm in the

ingredients, hand-picked and prepared,”

all making agave spirits. We believe people

Whitsundays between Airlie Beach and

Chisholm said.

are interested, willing to support local up to

Bowen in far north Queensland,” Fraser said.

“Additionally, given we’re increasingly

a point, but the loyalty to Mexican tequila

“Our world-class agronomy team is

working in virtual settings, tequila

and mezcal will remain steadfast,” they said.

applying modern techniques to ensure

masterclasses or ‘meet-the-maker’ style

56 | National Liquor News

Tequila and Agave Spirits

sessions are an effective way to not only engage and educate consumers, but to help retailers grow their database and sales.” Fraser advises retailers focus on the selection of brands, rather than placement. He said: “There are a lot of players out there trying to break through. There are some fantastic brands out there and some that are less so. I would encourage investigating the NOM of each brand (CRT Mexican Tequila authority monitors and controls this) as this identifies where the brands are produced and from what distillery.” For Frost, education is key, noting: “Tequila is a product for all occasions, perfect for sipping, versatile to mix in cocktails, spritzers or with a straight mixer and pairs exceptionally well with food. “Gone are the days where it’s a quick shot at the end of the night.

“Definitely all the data is showing that we’re looking to have a more

In promoting quality and offering drinking solutions to the category,

enjoyable drinking experience with tequila rather than seeing it purely

retailers have a real opportunity to capitalise on upsell and bundle buys

as a shot brand, where we’re not as fussed about quality,” he said.

with mixers and other ingredients in making the perfect tequila cocktail.” Alongside this education, Milne said it’s important for retailers to consider having enough high quality products to cater to the multitude of ways that consumers are interacting with tequila.

Marinoni, meanwhile, said a united industry approach is needed to further educate consumers. “We as a collective need to help consumers change their perceptions, and experience premium tequila. If we can successfully do this, then this category will continue to boom with no end in sight. We have a great strategy in place with our Campari Academy team who are working with our trade partners to ensure the success of Espolòn in the tequila category for retailers,” he said. Dixon said Proximo is also working with retailers in this kind of approach, including by: “reminding consumers about how tequila fits into their repertoire. “We will be providing neck tags for retailers to display with serve recommendations to help create instant experts in both their staff and consumers. Retailers like to be able to make recommendations to their customers, so we need to give them the tools to do this.” Marinoni believes there’s opportunity for retailers to partner more with brands at certain points in the year to bring the category to life.

Agave plants

Agave farm

“Our labels take Mexico’s traditional Day of the Dead (November 2) celebration as their theme and then depict authentic stories of the Mexican people’s independent spirit spurred on by Ramòn and Guadalupe,” he said. “I think it is really important to bring experiences to consumers and shoppers that transport them into these real-life stories of Mexico, something that I think is particularly important given our current inability to travel.” In-store theatre surrounding the true stories of tequila was also tipped as a key area for opportunity in retail by Dredge. He said: “Tequila is a very powerful category for retailers right now in driving both traffic and spend; and has very engaged shoppers. “Shoppers desire more NPD (increased range across all expressions), theatre (invest in gondola ends and displays in main aisle), better signage in-store, better availability and staff knowledgeable about the category to help them navigate their new choices.”

58 | National Liquor News

■

RTD Feature

C.C. Soda. Lime.

RTD

r e g Big and r e t t e b

Temperatures are starting to climb as the summer season approaches, and with each degree, the opportunity of a very important category in the off-premise liquor market grows too – RTDs. While undeniably a year round beverage, the industry notes an extra uptick for RTDs in summer months, thanks to the annual rise in outdoor social events. This year in particular that rise is predicted to be even greater, as some locked down areas begin easing outdoor restrictions. The opportunity behind the RTD market this year has

p, innovate g to develo in u n ti n o c gory is stes of The RTD cate changing ta e th it su to tegory mise as a key ca t and premiu o sp s it g n cementi re. consumers, into the futu d n a w o n il for reta

been recognised by many brands, with a range of new products hitting shelves. This will have an even greater positive impact on the current upward trajectory of the category, as consumers get inspired to try new things and find their perfect summer beverage.

C.C. Soda.

RTD

An example comes from one of Australia’s favourite

base for RTD consumers. The top three features

RTD brands, Canadian Club, which has announced

that influence which type of spirit a consumer

the launch of its first soda-based RTD. The new

wants are flavour, price and brand. When it comes

product taps into the macro ‘better for you’ trend

to summer specifically, the highest ranking factors

while also catering to curious consumers who want

for consumers choosing RTDs were refreshment,

to try something interesting that fulfils their needs in

availability in their preferred flavour, and being cold

the warmer months.

at the time of purchase.

“Recent trends show us that consumers are looking

These findings are in line with what has been

for more choice as they expand their consumption

experienced by brands lately, including Pernod

occasions, driven by trends of ‘better for you’ and

Ricard’s Malfy Gin, which has just entered the category

social drinking experiences. This has been particularly

with its first ever RTD SKUs – Gin and Tonica Limone

notable in light RTD which has seen an influx of

and Gin and Tonica Rosa.

innovation such as lighter style, more refreshing

“Light spirit RTDs often see their peak in summer,

drinks that are calorie and ingredient conscious,” said

given the refreshing cues of RTDs in this segment.

Tom Ansell, Brand Manager for Canadian Club RTDs

Some other aspects of RTDs are becoming increasingly

at Beam Suntory.

important, such as portability,” said a spokesperson

“Canadian Club has always been a dark RTD

Another recent launch in the space comes from

typified by being one of the few brands led by a non-

Skyy Vodka, distributed by Campari Australia. As

cola mixer, and yet again we look to offer consumers

part of its global relaunch (detailed more on page

more choice in this space with an even lighter, easier

28), Skyy released two vodka and soda RTDs.

drinking option.”

“In summer we know that people are looking for flavours and mixes which are more refreshing in style.”

for Pernod Ricard.

at the forefront of lighter more refreshing options

Vanessa Liew, Channel Marketing Manager for Off-

There are also a number of other macro and micro

Premise & E-Commerce at Campari Australia, spoke

trends impacting the decisions of Australian shoppers

about what trends the business has seen recently and

right now, which influence what they’re looking for in

said: “In summer we know that people are looking for

RTDs. The big questions on everyone’s lips right now

flavours and mixes which are more refreshing in style.

are how will this multitude of trends play out in the

“We usually see a growth of events and gatherings

RTD space over its peak period?

at this time of year as people enjoy the better weather, so people often look for that lower ABV option to

What consumers want

moderate consumption during longer daytime

As part of this analysis of the RTD category, National

drinking occasions. Similarly with dark RTD, we

Liquor News commissioned a study from Fonto,

see growth in more lighter options in taste and ABV

Vanessa Liew

looking into the behaviour and preferences of

during the summer months.”

Channel Marketing Manager Off-Premise & E-Commerce Campari Australia

consumers in the category. This data reveals some of

Often consumers looking for lighter and more easy

the most important things that people look for when

drinking RTDs come from other categories. As Ansell

they’re choosing RTDs.

points out, this is where Canadian Club shines.

According to this research, vodka is the most

“Consumers are looking for less sugary more

widely consumed RTD base, followed by bourbon,

sessionable drinks. Canadian Club is one of the most

whisky and gin, and is also the most preferred spirit

well known RTD brands in market and top three by

Lime.

RTD

Premium plays The premiumisation trend is seeing consumers

volume driven by our refreshing dry

predicted another huge summer of

variant that is also a perfect alternative

seltzer ahead. Pat Coulson, Brand

to beer,” he said.

Manager at Sunrise Drinks Co., creator

spending more in the RTD category, as they increasingly seek out more upmarket products. “A trend which we are seeing in almost all segments is premiumisation, meaning

“We recently branched out into a

of Sunly Seltzer, said: “This summer

zero sugar offering of the beloved dry

is going to be huge for the category.

variant, but CC Soda & Lime seeks to go

You’ve got the national [retail chains]

one step further by offering a new mixer

giving the category a lot of love in-store

that also gives consumers a lighter,

and bringing out their own brands and

easier drinking experience using natural

a tonne of big players in the market

Black team has noticed across the whole

ingredients that makes it lower in sugar

now with deep pockets.”

market, noting: “High value items are driving

and calories than leading RTDs.”

But at the same time, the RTD

people are spending more on the types of RTD they are buying, with average price per litre increasing by 3.5 per cent in the last year,” Liew said. Baker said this is something that the Mr

much of the growth, as consumers are happy to

For Ampersand Projects, there are

category will be about more than

pay for quality craft products… People will pay

a range of reasons that consumers look

just hard seltzer this season, with

for quality, as they do in every other category.”

for certain factors in summer RTDs.

consumers seeking out products with

“Convenience is the key. RTDs

unique points of difference.

give consumers the drinks they love

A brand that has seen the benefits of

getting from the bar (eg. vodka, soda,

this since launching is Australia’s first

fresh lime) or making at home in the

gin-based hard seltzer, Sunny Eddy.

convenience of a ready-made pack

Owner and Founder Tim Phillips

that they can take to any summer

said: “With Sunny Eddy, we’ve seen

social gathering,” said Alex Bottomley,

first-hand how being a little bit

Director at Ampersand Projects.

different (for us it’s being Australia’s

“The warmer weather also means

only gin-based seltzer) translates to

people are looking for refreshment

success with consumers. That said,

which light RTD’s definitely deliver on.

while a point of difference is important

They are a lighter beverage, without the

to attract new customers, alone it’s not

bloat that you would find with some

necessarily enough to keep them as

other drinks such as beer and cider.”

loyal customers. It’s crucial to hit the key attributes of refreshment, great

Beyond hard seltzer

taste, and great packaging.”

Hard seltzer has exploded into the

Another brand going against the

Australian market in the past 18

grain is Mr Black, which enters the

months, as explored in last month’s

RTD category this season after three

issue of National Liquor News.

years in development for its Espresso

In that issue, several producers 62 | National Liquor News

Martini canned cocktail.

Pernod Ricard’s spokesperson said that premiumisation is also growing the RTD category by recruiting new types of consumers. “An emerging ‘high end’ craft gin and cocktail space will be of interest to those who haven’t been attracted to RTD before, but now can finally experience the flavours they love in a more convenient format,” they said.

C.C. Soda. Lime.

RTD

Managing Founder, Tom Baker, said:

to begin its point of difference, which is also

Canned cocktail revolution

“The fridge is full of hard seltzers already.

extended into a full flavoured RTD that is

This season, there has already been a

Drinkers are extraordinarily well catered for

low in calories and sugar.

number of new canned cocktail style RTDs

in that part of the fridge. Consumers get it.

Brand Manager Emma Fogarty described

and premixes launch into the market. The

why these ‘different’ kinds of RTDs are

sector is reinvigorating itself, moving on

“The Mr Black Espresso Martini is

important to the category’s future, and said

from often poor connotations of being high

different, and exactly what people are

that “retailers recognise the consumer thirst

in alcohol and price and lower in quality.

craving to kick start their summer sessions.”

for flavour.

But what’s next?”

The new Jose Cuervo Sparkling

This thought is also behind another NPD

“Different mixers and flavour trends are

Margarita, for example, successfully fills a

from Proximo Spirits, with the just-launched

starting to be more relevant in the RTD

gap for a portable, high quality, daytime

Jose Cuervo Sparkling Margarita premix.

world. We are seeing more dark spirits

version of the second most googled cocktail

Hayley Dixon, Spirits Specialist at

experimenting with mixers outside of

recipe during Australia’s first lockdown.

Proximo Spirits, said: “Consumers are really

cola which is refreshing and interesting

looking for the next big thing, especially

for consumers.”

“Sparkling Margarita is the natural result of two key trends coming together

something convenient and refreshing that

Taste was also identified by Bacardi-

– an ideal convenient and refreshing

they can’t make themselves at home, like

Martini Australia as the biggest competitive

serve that fills the gap in the market for

they could with a gin and tonic for example.

point against a solely seltzer summer, with

a refreshing afternoon session drink that

Products like this will keep consumers

its new Mojito RTD seeking to simply

isn’t wine or beer,” said Dixon.

coming back to your fridge section, looking

deliver on all customer needs.

for a new, premium experience that they can

“There is definitely room for an easy to

“Over the past year the RTD category

drink, refreshing, lower ABV alternative to

has grown to outrun total liquor. Seltzer

a full strength bottled cocktails and as the

What this shows about the current

has undoubtedly played a big role in this

margarita is so popular with Australians, a

market is that consumers, while interested

acceleration but premiumisation and flavour

margarita premix was an obvious choice.”

in what hard seltzers provide, are also

also continue as key growth drivers for the

Bacardi’s new cocktail can was also

incredibly driven by exciting and unusual

category,” said a spokesperson for the brand.

inspired by growing consumer tastes for

flavours and ideas. With this in mind, some

“While consumers are increasingly

cocktails since the start of 2020, while at

new entrants to the market are carving

conscious of their drink choices and seeking

the same time seeking to provide an easy

out new avenues that inspire consumers,

out low-carb, low-sugar options like seltzers,

delicious option for social events in the sun.

including fresh RTD brand from SouthTrade

ultimately taste remains the number one

“As the cocktail culture continues to

International, C.A.N.

purchase driver of RTDs. This is where

grow, we’re seeing consumers – particularly,

share with their friends and family.”

C.A.N stands for Create Action Now,

Bacardi Mojito really delivers, crafted with

Millennials and Gen Zs – searching for new

and donates 10 per cent of each sale to

all natural flavours, real ingredients and

and different ways to enjoy bar-quality

conservation efforts. This is where it seeks

natural cane sugar for sweetness.”

cocktails. Cocktail inspired RTDs offer

64 | National Liquor News

NEWJOSE CUERVO

SPARKLING

MARGARITA

SUMMER’S NEW DRINK

Jose Cuervo® and other trademarks are owned by Tequila Cuervo La Rojeña, S.A. de C.V. Please Enjoy Responsibly.

RTD

retailers an opportunity to recruit new

innovation at their core to keep up with

Step outside the box for summer

consumers into the RTD category and drive

the ever-changing needs of the consumer,

As Ansell said: “After a tough couple of

trade up, through capitilising on well known,

especially in Australia.

COVID ridden years, Australians can’t wait

trending cocktails that consumers know and

Canadian Club’s ability to stay so

to get back out for drinks with their friends

love from established trusted brands like

popular in the Australian market has a lot

be that at a venue, in their mates homes or

Bacardi. Delivering on both convenience

to do with how it has opened the brand up

at a park in the sun.”

and great taste, premium RTDs like Bacardi

to new consumers while keeping existing

So thinking a bit differently about RTDs

Mojito are set to be a staple in the esky this

consumers engaged. Examples of this

in-store this summer will help retailers make

summer,” the spokesperson said.

include the incredibly popular ‘Over beer?’

the most of this moving forward. Some of the

slogan and also its latest product, both of

top insights from RTD producers include:

which recruit drinkers across categories.

• “Convenience packs (four-packs,

Meanwhile, the Mr Black Espresso Martini RTD has built on pandemic trends with a product that aims to get as close to the

“Canadian Club Soda & Lime offers

screwtops and cans) will be popular with

traditional cocktail experience as possible.

consumers more choice - not just Canadian

consumers on the move” – Emma Fogarty,

“The pandemic has changed how people

Club drinkers but all drinkers. Research we

SouthTrade International

drink. We’ve seen retail sales of Mr Black more-

conducted through T-Garage in April this year

• “Consumers tend to make their purchase

than-double since January last year as people

showed the product doubles consumption

decisions within reach of the shelf. For

embrace at-home mixology,” said Baker.

frequency versus Canadian Club & Dry

Jose Cuervo Sparkling Margarita, we are

“Cans overcome the obvious downside of

amongst existing drinkers and will recruit 70

producing a comprehensive suite of POS

cocktails - the convenience. It’s hard to shake

per cent of it’s soda volume from outside the

which will lead them from the front of the

a cocktail in a park or at a BBQ, right? The

Dark RTD category, particularly through beer

store, down the aisle and provide a call to

issue with convenient formats has always

and wine,” Ansell said.

action at the fridge door. If all three zones are

been quality, there’s a shortage of things in

“Innovation is an integral way of keeping

cans - very few in our opinion - that really

up with the ever changing macro and micro

retailers” – Hayley Dixon, Proximo Spirits

deliver on the ‘cocktail’ experience.”

market trends. This is in no way dissimilar

• “Keep things simple; encourage trial by

for Canadian Club and the spirits industry

promoting mix and match; prioritise

A nation for innovation

in which the future of growth is dependent

range expansion and navigation” – Phil

Australia is one of the biggest RTD markets

on meeting the ever evolving needs of

Henderson, Honeysuckle Distillery

in the world, and as Liew noted: “RTDs are

consumers in both what they consume and

the fastest growing segment in liquor in the

when or how they consume it.”

top 10 global markets with current growth +46.1 per cent in 2020 (IWSR 2020). “In fact IWSR predicts that RTDs will overtake wine in size by 2024. With this

activated, we will see an increase in sales for

• “Placement alongside their glass sibling increases credibility of the serve in addition to

Innovation has also been core to smaller

driving brand recognition” – Pernod Ricard

Australian brand Ampersand Projects, and

• “Fridge space is limited, so it is important

Bottomley described it as a “key strategic

not to end up with a fridge full of same-

pillar for the company.”

same offerings that start to blend together”

enormous growth trajectory worldwide we

“We have brought an innovative

expect to see even more innovation over the

approach to the market since we launched

• “Get a sample from the suppliers and try before

current years.”

in 2018 and grown a reputation as a

you buy… You don’t want to stock anything

disruptor in the market with our product

your staff or you don’t have confidence in” –

and packaging innovations,” he said.

Pat Coulson, Sunrise Drinks Co.

With this is mind, it makes sense that the most successful RTD brands keep 66 | National Liquor News

– Tim Phillips, Sunny Eddy

■

EFFORTLESSLY ITALIAN REFRESHINGLY MALFY

RTD Marketplace

t o H d n a h s e fr

C.A.N Vodka and Soda C.A.N stands for Create Action Now - because that’s what they do. C.A.N donates 10 per cent of all profits to land, water, and air conservation efforts - meaning you can feel good about sipping on a C.A.N. This Tasty A.F. Vodka and Soda comes in Pineapple & Passionfruit, and Ruby Grapefruit. Distibutor: SouthTrade International

st ving ju i r r a e s. Ds ar ew RT rmer month n h s e fr wa These for the e m i t in

Canadian Club Soda & Lime This delicious new flavour combines the smooth taste of Canadian Club with a hint of lime, topped with soda, resulting in a perfect balance of natural sweetness and a refreshing taste. At just 31 calories per 100ml (50 per cent lower than popular cola and dry RTDs), Canadian Club Soda & Lime is lower in sugar and deliciously flavourful using natural ingredients. It’s a lighter, easier drinking experience that is an exciting alternative to beer. Distributor: Beam Suntory

Mr Black Espresso Martini Following three years of extensive research and development, the legendary Mr Black Espresso Martini has launched in a fun-sized 200ml can to shake up and enjoy anywhere.

SKYY Vodka and Soda SKYY Vodka and Soda’s range offers vibrant flavors of citrus zests and a touch of aromatic botanicals for a refreshingly light yet nuanced taste for a point of interest and sophistication for consumers. Available in Lime & Mint and Lemon & Elderflower, they can be found nationwide in a four-pack of 330ml cans at an RRP of $22.99. Distributor: Campari Australia

68 | National Liquor News

Crafted by the Aussie experts behind the world’s best coffee liqueur, this cocktail is made using top-grade arabica coffee, vodka, and a good whack of Mr Black. The can is charged with nitrogen so the drink pours like a classic Espresso Martini, with a thick, foamy head. They’re ready to serve in a cocktail glass at a dinner party or in the esky for your next picnic. Distributor: SouthTrade International

RTD Marketplace

Malfy Gin and Tonica This world first for Malfy is sure to be the RTD of summer! Try the Malfy Limone Gin & Tonica made with Sicilian lemon, premium tonic and a hint of mint, and the Malfy Rosa Gin & Tonica made with Amalfi pink grapefruit, premium tonic and a hint of rosemary. Distributor: Pernod Ricard

Bacardi Mojito The newly launched Bacardi Mojito, crafted using the iconic Bacardi Carta Blanca Superior White Rum along with all-natural flavours and real ingredients, is the perfect, convenient, ready-to-drink cocktail that consumers can enjoy anytime, anywhere this summer. Easy to transport and keep ice cold, it doesn’t sacrifice on taste, combining the mouth-watering freshness of the Caribbean with zesty lime, revitalising mint, and sparkling soda water. Distributor: Bacardi-Martini Australia

Jose Cuervo Sparkling Margarita Jose Cuervo launches its Sparkling Margarita this month. The premix is a first-of-its-kind, formulated specifically for the Australian market. Tailored to Australian palates and made in Australia, the new product mixes authentic Jose Cuervo with the flavours of natural lime and triple sec. It has a lightly sparkling twist and a clean dry finish. The premix fills a gap in the market for a refreshing

Wild Turkey Extra Aged

afternoon session drink. A convenient

The Wild Turkey Discovery Series is a range of

version of one of Australia’s most beloved

premium bourbon premixes, selected to hero

cocktails, the spritz is best served straight from the can or poured over ice. Distributor: Proximo Spirits

the bold flavour of Wild Turkey, made with craftsmanship, conviction and integrity. The flavours of Extra Aged 9 per cent ABV cans include Vanilla Oak Spiced Cola, and Spiced Honey Soda. Distributor: Campari Australia

October 2021 | 69

Sparkling Wine

Dannii Minogue

70 | National Liquor News

Sparkling Wine

A bubbly

good time In a year plagued with pandemic-induced challenges and economic uncertainty, Cindy Panzera explores why Champagne and sparkling wine is a fizzy flute of indulgence and enjoyment for Australian consumers.

The pandemic may have put a pin in the

contributor to total wine growth with sales

To put this into perspective, China, with a

fun and festivities of Australian consumers

up 30.6 per cent versus a year ago; with

population of 1.4 billion people, represents

over the past year, but it certainly hasn’t

strong gains for bottles priced over $50

a market of just three million bottles of

flattened their love of fizz. The sparkling wine

highlighting consumers’ willingness to spend

Champagne, while Australia imported more

category including Champagne has posted

on Champagne despite yo-yo lockdowns.

than eight million bottles in the last year.”

extraordinary sales growth over the past year. Total sparkling wine generated an additional $160 million in sales (+16.9 per cent) for the 12 months ending August 2021 and now represents almost 60 per cent of total wine growth in Australia, according to IRI figures. Emma Baldwin, Head of Wine Delivery

This year’s Champagne harvest kicked off

“Australians love sparkling wine, no matter what the occasion.” Emma Baldwin Head of Wine Delivery Pernod Ricard

for Pernod Ricard Winemakers, said:

in September, but severe weather conditions including frost, mildew and hail are expected to slash the yield by up to 60 per cent, stirring speculation that exports to Australia could be challenged due to low supply. The Comité Champagne, however, has counteracted these suggestions saying that despite the low harvest, the quality of the

“Gone are the days when sparkling used

Australians’ obsession with French fizz has

2021 vintage remains high and there are still

to be confined to a celebratory moment.

defied global trends. The Comité Champagne,

large amounts of wine in stock to offset any

Australians love sparkling wine, no matter

the trade association which represents the

supply issues.

what the occasion. The large selection of

houses and grape growers of Champagne,

sparkling available in Australia - Champagne,

referred to Australia as a ‘regional pocket of

Loving local

sparkling wine, organic, lower alcohol, and

resistance’, being the only country in the top

The escalating appeal of Champagne in

lower sugar wine, means there is something

10 export markets to record growth in 2020

Australia indicates a strong premium

to pop no matter what the budget or event.

(+11.2 per cent), compared to the double-

market and an opportunity for Australians

“During the lockdown and restrictions,

digit declines experienced by leading export

to embrace local sparkling options, explains

consumers opted for sparkling as a self-

markets (US, UK, Japan, Germany and Italy)

Natalie Burch, General Manager and

reward or ‘treat yourself ’ moment with

which were all severely impacted by bar and

Marketing Director for Western Australian

sparkling wines across all price points

restaurant closures.

winemaker, Burch Family Wines.

performing well. Prosecco has been, and still

Laurent Valy, Brand Development

“Support local. And we don’t just mean

is, a growing category, as is sparkling rosé.”

Manager – Oceania at Maisons de

the local wine region. Support Australian

Champagne, however, has been the

Champagne Lanson and Tsarine, said: “The

sparkling as a whole. Our Methode

standout performer this year. IRI data

demand for quality Champagne is high here

Traditionelle sparklings are award-winning,

revealed that Champagne was the biggest

when you consider consumption per capita.

as are many other well-known houses. October 2021 | 71

Sparkling Wine

Sipping on singles The rising trend in moderating alcohol consumption has been complemented by the expanding range of small format options within sparkling wine. Watson explained that innovation in small format styles has played a key role in charming consumers into the sparkling wine category. “Our small format grants both wishes: enjoying a local glass of bubbles while ticking the health and wellbeing box. Moderation is key. Consumers want to

Stocks dwindling due to the global export

exploring local premium options has resulted

enjoy a glass or two of their

market could lead to an encouraging trend in

in 82 per cent of sparkling wine growth coming

favourite sparkling without

Australian sparkling,” she said.

from bottles priced over $20, according to data

overindulging,” he said. Baldwin said that smaller format spritz wines are perfect for the summer months ahead, particularly as outdoor dining and picnics will become commonplace as restrictions start to ease in NSW and VIC.

Johnathon Watson, National Sales Manager

provided by Pernod Ricard.

for Ferngrove Wines, another Western

This is supported by insights from Shopper

Australian winery, said: “The ‘support local

Intelligence, as Senior Insights Manager, Ming

movement’ is now part of the consumer

Lianto, said: “Sparkling wine shoppers don’t

psyche, people want to support local business,

mind paying more for quality or something

support their local community and home state.

different and there is an opportunity to drive

Consumers are keenly supporting their local

a premium trade up here. They’re also quite

wine producers and are increasingly impressed

willing to spend more on new and different; so

by home-grown sparkling wines. The quality

investing in inspiration, new ideas and NPD

and value that local sparkling wines offer are

are likely to be well received.”

definitely being engaged and appreciated.” Jen Doyle, Winemaker at Jansz in Tasmania, says there is also growing energy and

The last year has also expedited the ‘conscious

enthusiasm for the quality of the sparkling wine

consumption’ movement which has spawned

coming out of our southernmost island state.

a new wave of low or no alcohol wines, spirits

“Our consumers are clearly discerning and are recognising the significance of this special

and beer to appeal to the rapidly growing number of sober-curious consumers.

little part of the world. The interest isn’t only

Data provided by Pernod Ricard revealed

coming from the Australian domestic market.

that the ‘no and low alcohol’ wine segment

In the last 18 months, I have facilitated a

has accelerated over the last three years with

steady stream of Zoom tastings for trade and

sales up 46 per cent in the past 12 months. The

consumers, particularly in the US – they love

segment has doubled in the last year alone with

our sparkling rosés,” she said.

more than 30 new products hitting the shelves

This growing consumer interest in 72 | National Liquor News

Booze-free bubbles explode

in both liquor stores and grocery outlets.

Sparkling Wine

The rise in popularity of no and low

focusing on eco-friendly (organic, sustainable

alcohol alternatives is particularly popular

agriculture) or zero per cent alcohol options.

among younger consumers as they look for

“At the beginning of 2020, we released

a healthier lifestyle and ways to moderate

Barton & Guestier zero per cent sparkling

their alcohol consumption, according to

wine which is performing very well in the

Ben Turner, Global Marketing Director for

market. We have actually never seen such

Australian Vintage Limited (AVL).

strong growth for any item in the range in

“AVL Wines is an industry leader in the

such a short period of time.”

no and low alcohol space. McGuigan Zero

Ben Culligan, Category and Marketing

is the number one zero-alcohol brand in

Director for Treasury Premium Brands, Asia

the UK and Australia. Sparkling with 0.0

Pacific, said: “There is so much potential for

per cent alcohol provides an alternative for

non-alcoholic wines as they fulfill needs

those with health concerns or those who are

across several life stages and can help

simply wanting the wine moments without

facilitate social participation, give consumers

the alcohol,” he said.

additional non-alcoholic options and allow

Guillaume Bladocha, Asia Pacific

them to be more inclusive hosts.”

Export Director for French winemaker and

Lianto stressed that ‘better for you’ choices

distributor, Barton & Guestier, said: “During

are very important to sparkling wine and

the last few years we have seen new product

Champagne shoppers.

developments in the sparkling category

“Although the industry has delivered

“Sparkling wine shoppers don’t mind paying more for quality or something different and there is an opportunity to drive a premium trade up here.” Ming Lianto Senior Insights Manager Shopper Intelligence

October 2021 | 73

Sparkling Wine

Sparkly and new

better on this compared to last year, there is

should keep in mind that one-in-three

still an opportunity gap in delivering better

sparkling and Champagne shoppers are

The sparkling wine category is

and more low sugar, low carb and low cal

‘expandable’ - they will consume more than

preparing for a big summer. Some

options,” she said.

they buy, and they are quite open to trading up

of the suppliers from this feature share what new products are currently exciting their portfolio.

in volume if they are tempted with multibuys

Fancy up the fizz

and case specials. These shoppers are also not

With vaccination rates soaring across the

too price aware and are more focused on value

AVL: “In June 2021 we launched

country, the idea of a ‘normal’ summer and silly

for money than the price itself.

Tempus Two Lighten Up Prosecco.

season is within arms reach. And what better

“Use information to highlight value for

At 6.8 per cent alcohol volume, it’s

way to celebrate than with a festive flute of fizz?

money and help them navigate the shelf;

When preparing for the biggest time of year,

direct them to higher-margin products, or

Jon O’Loughlin, Head of Client Development

premium brands, as they’re not too brand

perfect for those who are looking to lighten their alcohol intake and reduce calories.”

for transactional data and consumer research

loyal. Displays on the floor near the main

Treasury Premium Brands: “We

firm, Fonto, said it’s important to note that

shelf are a high trigger to purchase. A display

launched the Wolf Blass Zero

sparkling wine shoppers are more likely to

of promoted items near the entrance and

shop around to find what they are looking for.

gondola ends are also likely to drive new

range in October. Available in shiraz, sauvignon blanc and sparkling white cuvée, they each have less than 0.5 per cent alcohol content and have been made to replicate the renowned style of Wolf Blass that consumers know and trust.” Champagne Lanson: “This year we launched the ‘Le Blanc de Blanc’. We are lucky to partner with Justine Schofield as our official Ambassador in Australia.” Jansz: “We have partnered with Tasmanian artist Jamin, and his bespoke art will appear on all Jansz Tasmania Premium Cuvée gift boxes and Premium Rosé labels for the festive season ahead.” Ferngrove: “Ferngrove released our new look Sparkling Rosé 200ml ‘Petite’ bottle in September. The perfect addition to a gift hamper or picnic basket.” Pernod Ricard: “We have launched a new Prosecco Rosé under the Rosie brand, which is the perfect addition to the smaller format spritz wines available in the range.”

74 | National Liquor News

“Sparkling buyers purchased from an

penetration into the category,” Lianto said.

average of three different brand stores in the

Burch said: “Get creative. Make the

last month, compared to the overall alcohol

display look beautiful - give the customers

average of 2.1 stores,” he said.

a reason to go back to retailers by injecting

Lianto added that brands and retailers

some joy into the shop space. And stock up.

Sparkling Wine

With an increase in sales across the board, our sparkling wines will sell through.” Bladocha added: “Gift boxes are always welcome during the festive season. Window displays as well as gondola end displays are the best way to showcase key items and drive volumes during this crucial period of sales for your business.” While unique bottle designs and compelling gifting options play a key role in this category and drive point of purchase, Culligan said it’s critical that stock is also available online during this key selling period. “Online sales continue to rise with shoppers shifting to this space for convenience, so it’s important to ensure an online sparkling and Champagne presence to capture this audience,” he said. Baldwin said: “With more outdoor gatherings rather than at home, having a refreshing sparkling drink that people can pick up on their way to a picnic in the park will see great opportunities for retailers. In terms of placement, being in the fridge is a priority for peak season traction. And not forgetting gifting – sparkling is a perfect gift for anyone.” By positioning a store’s sparkling offering to cater towards different types of shoppers, retailers have the best possible chance of capitalising on all the sectors of the sparkling category this summer.

■

“During the last few years we have seen new product developments in the sparkling category focusing on eco-friendly (organic, sustainable agriculture) or zero per cent alcohol options.” Guillaume Bladocha Asia Pacific Export Director Barton & Guestier

Justine Schofield

October 2021 | 75

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From 16 outstanding panel picks to 70* more reviews, the Beer and Brewer Spring Brew Review is full with the latest and recent releases that you’ll want to try at home.

The Brew Review FO

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

The Panel Jono Outred, WA

Justin Fox, VIC

Michael Capaldo, NSW

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

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

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

Liam Pereira, NSW

Founder and head brewer at White Lakes Brewing, Sean’s decorated beer career includes five years as Chief Judge of the Perth Royal Beer Show where he currently serves on the committee.

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

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

Sean Symons, WA

Jamie Webb-Smith, NSW

Scott Hargrave, NSW/QLD

Rosemary Lilburne-Fini, NSW

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

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

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

Josh Quantrill, NSW

Benji Bowman, NSW

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

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

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

Tiffany Waldron, VIC

Ian Kingham, NSW

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

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

76 | National Liquor News

Jake Brandish, WA Beer & Brewer’s HomeBrewer Editor, Jake has a post-grad Dip in Brewing, is a BJCP judge, has brewed commercially and is an all round beer geek. As published in Beer and Brewer Spring 2021

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Slow Lane Brewing Little One

Slow Lane Brewing Before Dawn

Black Brewing Pale Ale

Black Brewing Lager

Black Brewing Bad Boy Bao Bao

ABV: 3.2% Style: Mixed

ABV: 4.6% Style: Dunkel

ABV: 5.5% Style: Pale Ale

ABV: 4.8% Style: Lager

ABV: 7.4% Style: Milk Stout

Fermentation Table Beer The palest straw in colour with a hint of haze, aromas are soft with just a little funky phenolic and grapey notes coming through, while it’s quite possibly one of the driest beers you’ll have with the lightest mouthfeel. It doesn’t have a lot of flavour to offer, until you let it warm up, when grapefruit and berries subtly make an appearance.

Mouthfeel is a little firmer than many Dunkels and in conjunction with the direct and lingering spicy bittering gives it depth and delivers a taut, crisp, almost buff, crowd pleaser. Munich malts give depth and complexity in both aroma and flavour with layers of maple syrup and honey toast while chocolate liquorice bullets wave from the distance and meld nicely with spicy noble hops.

An effortlessly crushable Pale Ale that pours slightly hazy with an off-white head. It’s moderately hopped with US varieties, and displays characters of tropical fruit, pineapple, citrus and a touch of pine. The 5.5% ABV boosts drinkability while the 47 IBUs is balanced and well-integrated. Some malt is present and adds to the beer’s balance, lasting into a moderate, crisp finish.

A simply executed German-style lager that utilises the doubledecoction mash technique that yields a super crisp result with a soft, sweet malt character. Earthy but vibrant German hop character is present, though subtle, on a light, dry body where light spice, citrus and grass feature. The particularly short, clean finish is also noteworthy.

Food: Weisswurst

Food: Pub grub

blackbrewingco.com.au

slowlanebrewing.com.au

blackbrewingco.com.au

A sweet, lactose-driven milk stout with the added fun of toasted marshmallow and decadent chocolate flavours. Pouring with viscosity and an uber dense, espresso-like head, it’s sweet, but not sickly so, with some bitter, dusty cocoa and earthy hop characters that cut through the joyous, candy-like profile. Texture is silky smooth with a longlasting finish which carries moreish sweetness well after each sip. Balanced and full flavoured.

Food: Ploughman’s lunch slowlanebrewing.com.au

Food: Spicy Asian

Food: Mousse

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UpFlow Brewing Ultra Pale Lager

UpFlow Brewing New World IPA

UpFlow Brewing Stout

UpFlow Brewing Classic Pale Ale

Stomping Ground Into the ‘Wood

ABV: <0.5% Style: Non-alc Lager

ABV: <0.5% Style: Non-alc IPA

ABV: <0.5% Style: Non-alc Stout

ABV: <0.5% Style: Non-alc Pale Ale

This is the beer to enjoy as a mid-week option or to help replace electrolytes and provide nutrients as a solid sports beer choice. Bursting with peach on the nose and a floral, lemon zest bitterness, Ultra Pale Lager is the perfect balance of refreshment, flavour and hydration that throws a spanner in the works of what a beer should be.

Straw coloured with just the slightest touch of haze, aromas of green fruits and herbs get your mouth watering while the palate displays full flavoured fruit notes of grapefruit, kiwi and melon. The mouthfeel is the tiniest bit thin, but it’s a compromise many will be willing to make for a non-alc this satisfying. There’s a bitter bite on the finish, with dryness that leaves it moreish.

The true-to-style colour sets the scene as a nice blend of hazelnut, caramelised malt and lightly roasted cold drip coffee characters are all integrated well across the aroma and palate. Although mild in bitterness for a Stout, the dark chocolate, dry roasted mouthfeel provides plenty of depth and a lingering finish.

Food: Sticky date pudding

A well-rounded Pale Ale with bready malt characters and a soft mouthfeel. The noble hops don’t give the tropical flavour or aroma of the more contemporary Australian Pale Ale styles, but this beer stands apart because of that. Pouring a light straw gold, the beer doesn’t feel like a zero alcohol product and would be well enjoyed all year round.

ABV: 9.5% Style: Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout

Food: Pizza

upflowbrewing.com.au

Food: Chicken burger

Food: Halftime oranges upflowbrewing.com.au

upflowbrewing.com.au

Deep dark brown with dark red highlights and a viscous, fine tan foam, mocha and smoky espresso aromas are embellished with oaky vanilla, while deft, spicy rye balances a drizzle of sweet booze. Bold sweet chocolate and light roast coffee lead flavour while oak, rye spice, banana esters, vanilla and light cola add complexity. Agile barrel notes deliver a rich even finish.

Food: Chocolate truffles stompingground.beer

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Stomping Ground Iced Faux-Vo

Stomping Ground Bramble On

Molly Rose Brewing Tinker

Molly Rose Brewing Crowd Goes Mild

Molly Rose Brewing Skylight

ABV: 6.5% Style: Nitro Sour

ABV: 4.1% Style: Fruited Sour

ABV: 5.2% Style: Sour Ale

ABV: 3.8% Style: Nitro Dark Mild

ABV: 5.7% Style: IPA

Loads of tart-sweet raspberry is on the nose with lashings of creamy vanilla and while initially restrained, as the beer warms you’re swimming in coconut. Sweet butter biscuit malt characters are balanced with the zip of raspberry and for a homage to something so overwhelmingly sweet the beer holds its balance. Ticking all the boxes, the nitro mimics the smooth creaminess of a Vovo.

Dark ruby red with a slight haze and a thick, off-white head, jammy mixed berry leads aroma, with medium acidity and balanced sweetness. Flavours of dark bready malts, with stewed dark fruits, are skilfully balanced with medium acidity and a light malt smokiness and chocolate malt character on the finish. It’s medium in body with medium-high carbonation and a dry finish.

A gorgeous hazy gold in the glass, tropical fruit aromas spill out with mango galore, tart-sweet pineapple, passionfruit, bitter lime peel and green papaya with a touch of saline. Although the nose isn’t overly sour, it’s incredibly balanced on the palate. It hits you as soon as it reaches your lips and peaks in the mid-palate with an exceptionally clean finish making this an easy drinker.

Mild in style but not in flavour, this pours a deep ruby with a clean, light tan head as subtle aromas of fruity esters and dark raisin come across with a light hint of pecan. A solid hop build brings green melon and stone fruit notes to the forefront, which are balanced with a biscuit and toast crust malt profile. Nitro enhances how this drinks easily and deliciously.

Jelly cup citrus aromas wrap around some wispy jasmine floral notes with flashes of peach and light, biscuity malt in support. Sweet, clingy peach, jellied orange and lime flavours are balanced by shortbread biscuit malts. Bittering is on the soft side, even for latter-day IPAs, but drinkability is high and a balanced, buoyant finish make for a very genial pint indeed.

Food: Dark chocolate tart

Food: Vietnamese

Food: Beef bourguignon

Food: Park picnic

Food: Dark chocolate

mollyrosebrewing.com

stompingground.beer

mollyrosebrewing.com

Clean and refreshing and belying its mid-strength ABV with an intensity of flavour, this ticks all the boxes of being a good lager and therefore what a great backyard beer should be. There’s light citrus and straw on the nose with notes of tingling, fresh cut cucumber while a light water cracker malt character complements a bright effervescence with a balanced and bitter finish.

Wonderfully pale in colour with an effervescent head and subtle haze, One Love pours exquisitely from the start and gets even better with every sip (or should we say responsible gulp?). A mild malt palate, with impeccably balanced hints of stone fruit, guava and lime from the Centennial, Amarillo, Mosaic and Galaxy hop combo, produce a refreshing beer that is a joy to drink.

Food: Backyard BBQ

bricklanebrewing.com

Food: Baklava

ABV: 4.2% Style: Fruited Sour A light palate with soft and well blended fruit flavours of watermelon and raspberry, it’s not overwhelmingly sour, but with enough tart characters to complement and showcase the fruit. This beer would be well suited to enjoying on a warm Spring day. Lightly coloured and pouring with a slight haze, the aroma combines subtle hops with the watermelon and raspberry aromatics.

Food: Fresh prawns bricklanebrewing.com

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ABV: 4.4% Style: Pale Ale

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ABV: 3.5% Style: Lager

Someday Sour Watermelon & Raspberry

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Brick Lane Backyarder

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Someday Sour Blood Orange

Someday Sour Mango & Peach

ABV: 4.20% Style: Fruited Sour

Light gold in colour with a medium haze and a persistent white head, big bursts of citrus peel and acidity lead the nose before a light wheat cracker and a touch of sulphur present on the back-end. A pleasant zingy citrus acidity leads the palate with a nice blood orange flavour but the mid to end palate doesn’t quite live up to aroma and is ultimately low in sourness.

Pours a light, slightly murky straw colour with a thin, fast to dissipate clean white head. Notes of peach and stone fruit hit the nose followed by a dense sulphurous mango to smooth the aroma out. The anticipation of fruit is not let down by the profile! A soft acidity pairs with an extremely low bitterness and all that fruit flavour makes this sour a super easy refresher.

Food: Orange sorbet

bricklanebrewing.com

Food: Lobster roll

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Deeds Brewing Thought Pattern

Deeds Brewing Survivor Type

Deeds Brewing Deeds Cider

Hawkesbury Brewing Pale Ale

ABV: 4.4% Style: Fruited Sour

ABV: 7.0% Style: IPA

ABV: 10.5% Style: Hazy TIPA

ABV: 5.0% Style: Apple Cider

ABV: 4.2% Style: Pale Ale

Hazy pale straw with the fluffiest pure white head, Saison yeast brings pleasing aromas of overripe lemon and oranges and faint clove before being met with a restrained tartness and bright fruitiness from the pineapple. The sourness plays nicely on the palate with a unique herbaceous note similar to mint and a vegetable character like pineapple skins. This beer is sunshine in a glass.

A merge between a classic WCIPA and a modern juicy IPA, it’s gold in colour with a slight haze and white head. Juicy hop aromas of ripe mango, passionfruit and pine usher in flavours that start with a malt sweetness before being quickly followed by big hop bitterness and a fruit syrup hop flavour. It’s medium in body and carbonation with a pleasant dry finish.

Very hazy and straw to pale gold in colour with a thick creamy white head that holds, truckloads of mango, pineapple and tropical fruit aromas are followed with notes of green dank hops. Ripe mango and papaya are evident immediately on the palate as citrus and stone fruit follow with a firm, pithy bitterness. There should be a warning on the label that reads “drinks too easily”.

Very bright and clear, with just a slight straw tinge, there are pleasant acidity aromas alongside white wine-like yeast esters and a hint of vanilla sweetness on the end of the nose. It’s dry and crisp with medium-high acidity and well balanced with sweetness that leaves a light custard-like vanilla flavour on the end of the tongue. Overall, a great sessionable cider.

This is a great example of a Pale Ale delivering citrus hop notes in the aroma and the palate while there’s a good balance of tropical fruit character and moderate bitterness that lingers with a savoury finish. Boasting enough malt sweetness to complement some of the citrus resinous notes on the mid-palate gives it a well-rounded and clean finish. Drinks really well.

Food: Tacos

Food: Pulled pork burrito

Food: Chorizo tapas

Food: Ploughman’s lunch

Food: Pork & fennel sausages

deedsbrewing.com.au

hawkesburybrewingco. com.au

deedsbrewing.com.au

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IronBark Hill Renegade XPA

Catchment Brewing Juno Yuzu

Catchment Brewing Whynot Lager

Catchment Brewing Hoogley Session

ABV: 4.9% Style: XPA

ABV: 4.2% Style: Summer Ale

ABV: 4.5% Style: Lager

ABV: 3.2% Style: Session Ale

Pale gold with a light foam, it’s clear and bright and easy drinking. The fragrant citrus aroma is more like grapefruit with a hint of citrus hop in the background while a subtle, yet evident, blend of lemon, mandarin and grapefruit provide a tartness that lingers but isn’t harsh or dominating. Well integrated with hop notes and enough malt sweetness to round out the drying mid-palate.

A very light straw colour with a clean paper white head, this looks exactly like what you’d be looking for in an easy drinker. On the nose light straw notes are apparent along with a flowery honey sweetness. But this easy drinker, drinks exactly that, easily. A very clean profile with some light citrus notes make this lager super refreshing and extremely light to the touch.

Pale gold with a slight haze, a thin white head dissipates but rims the glass while hop aromas are subtle. Fruity hop flavours are upfront, with hints of melon and stone fruit while it finishes with a citrus bite and a light malt profile. Bitterness is on the lower side. For a low ABV beer it’s made well and has all the elements you love in a fuller strength beer.

Food: Satay prawns

Pours well with a nice tight foam and deep golden colour. Big citrus hop notes tend to dominate, but a light Summer stone fruit aroma wafts in and out with each sip. The soft foam provides a nice textural mouthfeel to soften a citrus, slight grapefruit pithy astringency across the mid-palate and full flavoured malt sweetness provides balance to the lingering bitterness.

hawkesburybrewingco. com.au

ironbarkhill.com

Food: Salt & pepper squid

Food: Karaage chicken

Food: Fried chicken

Food: Paella

ABV: 3.5% Style: Aussie Pale Ale A good blend of tropical fruit hop characters fill the aroma with hints of ripe pineapple and mango weaving through a hint of feijoa, pawpaw and even a little ripe banana. Crisp and refreshing, it’s quick off the palate but a light to moderate bitterness provides depth to this mid-strength beer. Easy drinking, flavoursome and clean.

catchmentbrewingco. com.au

catchmentbrewingco com.au

October 2021 | 79

Wine Tasting Review

What we’re drinking When lockdown restrictions postponed this month’s tasting, we asked our panel of wine professionals what they were drinking right now and what they love about that varietal.

Riesling Emma Fogarty, SouthTrade International: “I love the versatility of Riesling and the different way it can present itself depending on the region and climate. I particularly love an aged Riesling for its complexity and Wigan Riesling from Peter Lehmann is my special treat wine.”

Semillon Brydie Allen, National Liquor News: “During this lockdown, I’ve been treating myself to some of the special wines collected on recent trips to the Hunter Valley and NSW Southern Highlands - subsequently I’ve gotten really into Hunter Valley Semillon. It’s lovely and crisp, and goes great with some of the new seafood recipes I’ve been trying at home too.”

Ed Peake, Penfolds: “Heading into the warmer spring months, my palate develops a craving for new release Rieslings from the latest vintages.

Grenache and Gamay

Having spent a few weeks in glass, any bottle shock

Sabine Duval, The Wine Collective:

has faded away and they are really starting to shine

“Grenache – I’m finding this grape

and express their freshness and lively acidity.

so exciting as it has a large range of

“It also coincides with the excitement of seasonal

styles. Also, the depth of complexity

foods – herbs seem tastier, fruit is crisp and fresh

varies so much. It just has so much to

and seafood is looking spectacular once again

offer and is so food friendly.

after we’ve all bunkered down with rich slow cooked meats and heavy reds over the winter months. “My absolute favourite wine right now is the

“Gamay (I am mainly drinking Beaujolais) - I am loving this grape because it is fresh and vibrant with

2021 Penfolds Bin 51 Eden Valley Riesling. It is

great acidity. I am really loving the

the epitome of crisp freshness and an excellent

nose on Gamay; cherry and earthy

expression of both Eden Valley and the wonderful

notes. Also most Beaujolais are so

Rieslings that are grown there. Floral and citrus

affordable.”

notes explode out of the glass and pull you in, overtones of lemongrass and sherbet lead to a zingy palate coating your mouth, with lime zest, chalkiness, acidity and extended minerality.” 80 | National Liquor News

Wine Tasting Review

Lighter bodied reds Michael Mcintosh, Accolade Wines: “With the change of seasons I’m loving lighter bodied red wines and finding them very versatile and enjoyable on their own or with a range of foods. Softer tannins and fruit profiles mean I’ve been able to enjoy a few glasses, rather than being weighed down by a single

Cabernet Sauvignon

glass with big alcohol

Jonathan Leeming, Taylor’s Wines: “Having spent the past twelve months working in independent

and body. Conscientious

wine retail, [at Bayswater Fine Wines] I’ve been lucky enough to taste something like 2,000 wines in

winemaking and viticultural

that time… Everything from natural wines, obscure Italian wines, prestige cuvée Champagnes, big

practices showcasing

Aussie reds, and everything in between.

restraint and examples

“According to Vivino though (the wine app on which I keep a record of all the wines I’ve tasted)

from cooler regions have

I’ve drunk something like 300 Australian Shiraz wines, but only 100 Aussie Cabernets. In recent

really piqued my interest.

weeks therefore, I’ve been making a concerted effort to drink more Australian Cabernet Sauvignon.

Beyond Pinot Noir, I’ve had

Which works out really well, as I recently started a new role Taylor’s Wines, who are especially

some great examples of

famous for their Cabernet Sauvignons.

Gamay, Lagrein, Grenache

“During my Taylor’s induction, I got to taste some really fantastic wines. The cream of the crop, in

and Tempranillo of late. So

my opinion, was the Taylors 2017 St Andrews Cabernet Sauvignon, from the Clare Valley. Opulent,

appropriate for our climate,

rich, plush and velvety, it displayed all the juicy blackcurrant and cassis one could ask for, perfectly

these are wines that can

complemented by cedar and tobacco flavours from French oak maturation.”

handle being served chilled without looking tannic, woody and clunky. “One specific wine

Pinot Noir Emmanuel Conde, Cerbaco: “My favourite

that has been a standout

varietal lately has to be Pinot Noir. For me,

for me is the inaugural

it combines friendliness or drinkability, with

release of the 2021 St

an interesting complexity I don’t often find

Hallett Shiraz Nouveau.

elsewhere. I definitely enjoy Pinot Noir from

This is an emerging

cool climate wineries, working with minimal

category in Australian wine.

intervention.

Stylistically, it’s like a joven

“I have had a few Pinot Noirs during

(young) style of Shiraz.

lockdown, but one that really stood out was

Unoaked, fresh and vibrant,

a young Pinot Noir from Burgundy, France -

it’s crafted to be chilled. It

Claire Naudin La Plante 2020. What stood out

has all the flavour and pure

for me was the freshness, and the beauty of

fruit profile of a Barossa

this wine. At 11 per cent ABV it’s very friendly

Shiraz, with soft tannins

and refreshing, but Burgundy terroir Pinot Noir

and framed by refreshing

always grows with a specific complexity - it

acidity. With more structure

creates an unmistakable flavour profile and

than a typical rose, this

earthiness that it becomes much more. In the

chilled red pairs perfectly

hands of Claire Naudin, it became fabulous,

with pizza!”

festive, and just so pleasant.”

October 2021 | 81

Retailer Profile

Creating the ultimate centre for local wine The Phillips family has been supporting local wineries of the Goulburn Valley for generations.

For the Phillips family in Shepparton, Victoria, a connection to the liquor and hospitality industry goes back a number of generations. The family bought their first hotel in the Goulburn Valley around 1935, becoming interested in various other hotels around the region until purchasing the Australian Hotel in 1941. It was here that Paul Phillips, current operator of Phillips Cellars and Regional Wine Centre, grew up, and where his father spent most of his working life. At least until 1977, when the family bought the run-down Goulburn Valley Winery, which they eventually converted into a liquor store as the township of Shepparton grew and developed around them. Winemaking is a longstanding tradition in the area, with history stemming back to the 1860s. Over the years since opening the family’s store, Paul said they noticed an increase in local wineries, which was something they wanted to support. It began with stocking three or four local wines, to now having products from 47 wineries across the valley on their shelves. “A lot of these wineries are small - they’re a part time business for people who might have a small 10 acre vineyard and grow some fruit and make some wine. They might operate their cellar door during the weekend, but they’ve got no other way to sell their wine Monday to Friday, so we take that part over,” Paul told National Liquor News. Supporting the region’s wineries not only does great things for small local businesses, but also gives Phillips Cellars and Regional

Paul Phillips

Wine Centre a unique point of difference for customers. “I want to look after these local wineries. I know all of them - I know the winemaker, the vineyards, I’ve tried their wines, I know their story… and all of them have a point of difference,” Paul explained. With such diversity of wines available from these local producers, this Phillips family retail philosophy is quite successful. Paul said: “Our philosophy is to let the wines do the talking - we just guide the consumer according to what particular styles or price point they want. And this is a recipe that has worked.” But as a liquor retailer in regional Victoria, Paul said there definitely challenges they face when applying such a philosophy.

But throughout these challenges, Paul said he and his family have always understood the value of what they’re persevering to do. “Collectively here we have over 150 years of experience in the industry and we like what we do. It has its challenges and at times things don’t go to plan, but we’re well supported by these local wineries,” he said. “Shepparton is a relatively big town in country Victoria and a dragnet for people to come to for their shopping. We’re encouraging people to buy local rather than spend their money [outside the community]. We’re very much about locals supporting locals.”

There’s the ever-increasing competition posed by the larger supermarket retailers, as well as issues about convincing skeptical

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