National Liquor News October 2023

AUSTRALIA’S LEADING LIQUOR INDUSTRY MAGAZINE

vol. 42 no. 9 - October 2023

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Editor’s note

Editor’s note

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

Welcome to the October issue of National Liquor

brands and flavour profiles that are capturing

News, your go-to source for the latest trends,

the attention of consumers seeking convenience

insights, and innovations in Australia’s retail

without compromising on taste.

liquor industry.

We also turn our attention to the island state of

As we usher in the warmer months, the longer

Tasmania, known for its pristine landscapes, and

days and sunny weather lead to more outdoor

now, it’s becoming synonymous with exceptional

gathering occasions and celebrations, as such, this

drinks. Discover the artisanal spirits, craft beers,

edition has a particular focus on navigating the

and premium wines that are emerging from this

delightful world of beverages this summer.

captivating region.

Our cover story explores how Taylors Wines is

In addition to these features, the October

saving the seahorses with every sip of its revamped

issue is your go-to source for the latest products

Promised Land range of wines. With a brand-new

hitting retailers’ shelves. Stay ahead of the curve by

look and two new varietals added to the range, it’s

keeping a close eye on what’s new and noteworthy

sure to be a hit this summer.

in the industry.

Creating the perfect aperitivo moments involves

We hope this issue inspires you to craft

more than just the beverages, it’s about the entire

unforgettable experiences for your customers

experience, and in this issue, we learn about the

this summer.

Cheers,

how aperitivo can elevate your summer offerings

Deb

and attract a diverse clientele.

As the weather starts to heat up, Molly Nicholas

Publisher: Paul Wootton pwootton@intermedia.com.au Managing Editor: Deb Jackson djackson@intermedia.com.au Journalist: Caoimhe HanrahanLawrence chanrahanlawrence@intermedia.com.au Journalist: Molly Nicholas mnicholas@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

enchanting drinks and delectable bites that make for the perfect aperitivo experience. We explore

PUBLISHED BY: Food and Beverage Media Pty Ltd A division of The Intermedia Group 41 Bridge Road GLEBE NSW Australia 2037 Tel: 02 9660 2113 Fax: 02 9660 4419

Deb Jackson, Managing Editor

looks at which trends will drive the RTD category

02 8586 6156

this summer and the ways in which retailers can

djackson@intermedia.com.au

capitalise on its success, showcasing innovative

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Top Reads ➤

66 Tasmania: A state of quality

➤

72 Think pink

➤

58 A thirst for convenience

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We continuously strive to improve our environmental performance and to initiate additional CSR based

6 | National Liquor News

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The Heart of Rum

Savour The Smoothness DISCOVER MORE PLE A SE DRIN K RESPON SIBLY. ©2023 Diplom át ico Br anding, Unipe s s oal LDA.

Contents October 2023

Regulars 10 Cover Story: Taylors Wines saves the seahorses with every sip 24 News: The latest liquor industry news for retailers around Australia 26 Marketplace: Brand news

42 Retail Drinks: The relationship between liquor licence density and harm 45 Shopper Intelligence: RTDs – good, great, or so-so?

46 Strikeforce: Tangible brand experience

and promotions

48 Training: Best practice

50 Circana: ‘Me-tailing’ in

staff training

the moment 51 Wiser: What to expect from

49 Leasing: Avoiding disputes in commercial leases

a hot festive season 2023 76 The Brew Review: From Beer & Brewer’s esteemed tasting panel 78 Wine Tasting Review: Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio 82 Events: An exclusive look into the latest liquor industry events

Category Focused 12 Sponsored Content: Diplomático Rum joins the Brown-Forman portfolio 36 Champagne: Champagne and the era of exploration 38 Sponsored Content: Viticoltori Ponte celebrates 75 years of leading Italian

Retail Focused 14 LMG Conference: There’s more in store from LMG 18 IBA Trade Workshop: Building the Network of the Future 22 ILG Member Spotlight: Maximising customer experience 23 Liquor Legends: The Legends touch down in Italy 40 Store Design: Grana is a taste of Europe in Australia

8 | National Liquor News

winemaking 43 IBA: The 2023 Australian Independent Beer Awards 44 ADA: The National Distilling Institute launches 47 Wine Australia: Influences on wine packaging trends 54 Summer Aperitivo: Creating perfect moments 58 RTDs: A thirst for convenience 66 Tasmanian Drinks: A state of quality 72 The Rosé Report: Think pink

DISTILLED, MATURED AND BOTTLED AT THE FOOTHILLS OF MT. FUJI

Cover Story

Taylors Wines saves the seahorses with every sip With a new design and two new varietals, the Promised Land wine collection supports conservation organisation Project Seahorse on its mission to conserve Australia’s coastal marine ecosystems, writes Molly Nicholas.

As Taylors Wines continues its mission to

“The new direction we’re taking with

save the seahorses, the South Australian

the range is a special one for the Taylor

“By setting up marine protected areas,

winery has unveiled its new-look Promised

family,” he said. “We are incredibly proud

drawing attention to harmful fishing

Land range along with the addition of two

of the support for Project Seahorse

practices, and regulating wildlife trade to

new varietals.

that we’re putting behind the new-

increase seahorse populations, our ocean

serious climate-related issues,” added Taylor.

The colourful new design features the

look Promised Land range and feel that

will be better for thousands of other

symbol of the seahorse prominently, a nod to

ocean conservation and marine habitat

species. We’d love retailers to join us in

Taylors Wines’ Promise to the Sea campaign

restoration is an important cause that

supporting this mission, which in turn,

where every sip supports global marine

everyone can get behind.”

will do some good for the planet.”

conservation organisation Project Seahorse.

Project Seahorse is led by award-winning

As a prominent supporter of marine

Taylors Wines’ seahorse logo has

Marine Biologist Amanda Vincent and

conservation, the collaboration with

always been a symbol of the family’s three

Co-founder Heather Koldewey, committed

Project Seahorse follows Taylors Wines’

generations of winemaking, and today it

to the conservation and sustainable use

2020 fundraising campaign SeaBnB, a

also represents the family’s dedication to

of coastal marine ecosystems and the

partnership with the Sydney Institute

sustainable winemaking in efforts that go

survival of seahorses. Founded in 1996,

of Marine Science, which raised more

beyond the vineyards. Mitchell Taylor,

the organisation has made significant

than $30,000. Raising funds for seahorse

third generation Winemaker and Managing

progress and measurable gains in marine

rehabilitation projects, the proceeds have

Director at Taylors Wines, explained why

conservation worldwide.

funded underwater ‘hotels’ in areas where

the partnership with Project Seahorse is so important to Taylors Wines.

10 | National Liquor News

“Seahorses, much like grape vines, are

the endangered White’s Seahorse’s natural

an indicator species that raise the alarm on

seagrass habitats have been destroyed.

Cover Story

Affordable wines for every palate

Taylors Wines has added two new varietals to the

Originally named after a special area of land on

range, a 2022 Promised Land Sauvignon Blanc and

the Taylors Wines estate at the southern end of the

a 2022 Promised Land Rosé, joining the heartland

Clare Valley wine region, the range now explores

varieties that Taylors is known for.

the diversity of South Australia’s premium wine

“Customers looking at wines in this price

regions, including fruit sourced from Padthaway

point want to ensure they are getting value for

and the Limestone Coast.

their money, and the Promised Land delivers it in

Targeting consumers who are looking for an

spades. These are highly awarded wines crafted in

easy-drinking wine that is ideal for casual occasions,

Taylors’ signature style, so if you can open a bottle

the Promised Land range acts as the perfect entry

for customers to sample during their visit to your

level wine to the wider Taylors portfolio.

store, it’s an easy way to demonstrate the value these

“Since it first launched, The Promised Land

wines provide for everyday drinkers.

range has utilised an element of fun, bright colours

“The Promised Land wines have been an

in its label design. The new direction takes the bold

exceptional performer in the Taylors portfolio since

use of colour one step further, bringing in a bright,

it launched in 1998. While it features classic varieties

trendy palette to showcase the range of varieties we

like Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, it also offers

have in the portfolio,” said Taylor about the new

styles like Pinot Noir and Rosé, which have become

direction for the collection.

a regular selection of many wine lovers’ repertoires.

“The palette also lends itself to the casual and

“Our Promised Land wines also perform

carefree style of these wines – they are approachable,

extremely well on the international award show

easy drinking and super food-friendly, and the

circuit, with the range collecting seven trophies

design helps deliver that personality. There is also our

and 110 gold medals since its launch.

signature seahorse as a focal point of the design, which

“The star performers in the Promised Land

connects directly to our Promise of the Seas campaign.”

range, […] the Promised Land Shiraz, Shiraz

All wines in the collection retail at $16, an

Cabernet and Cabernet Sauvignon releases

affordable price point that appeals to curious and

are highly awarded wines and our top sellers in

value-driven customers. As well as the new look,

the range.”

■

“We are incredibly proud of the support for Project Seahorse that we’re putting behind the new-look Promised Land range and feel that ocean conservation and marine habitat restoration is an important cause that everyone can get behind.”

Mitchell Taylor, Managing Director, Taylors Wines

October 2023 | 11

Sponsored Content

Diplomático Rum joins the Brown-Forman portfolio Diplomático, a rum that was born at the base of the Andes Mountains in Venezuela, is celebrated for its unique and exceptional flavour profile.

As of 4 September 2023, Brown-Forman, a global leader in the premium spirits industry, has announced the addition of Diplomático Rum to its esteemed family

further reinforces our commitment to nurturing the

of brands.

growth of our brand portfolio.”

Born in 1989 at the base of the Andes Mountains in Venezuela, Diplomático has cemented its legacy as

Karpf explained that the rum category is experiencing a shift towards premiumisation.

a rum celebrated for its unique and exceptional flavour

“In the past five years, super premium and above

profile. Globally recognised as the number one brand

(SP+) rums have grown five times faster than the

in the Super-Premium Rum segment1, Diplomático is

overall rum category (+15 per cent vs. three per cent)2

swiftly gaining recognition as a preferred choice among

and by 2027, the SP+ rum segment is projected to

the world’s top bars, and as a brand that continues to

grow at a faster pace than the entire spirits industry

introduce new enthusiasts to the world of luxury rum.

(six per cent vs +0.7 per cent)3.”

Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva, the brand’s flagship

She further emphasised: “The global trend

expression, is meticulously crafted using the distillery’s

of super premium rum is gaining significant

finest and most refined matured barrels. These barrels

momentum, and Diplomático is the ideal brand to

are expertly blended to yield an elegant yet complex

introduce Australian connoisseurs to the exquisite

rum that is ideally suited for traditional ‘spirits-led

world of super premium rum.

cocktails’ or savouring neat. In addition to Reserva

“We want to redefine the perception of rum in

Exclusiva, a diverse range of rich blended rums will

Australia. Rum can embody elegance and complexity,

soon become available throughout Australia.

elevating classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned

Crafted with unwavering passion and attention to

or Manhattan, but it can also be enjoyed neat or over

detail by its master blenders, this exclusive rum boasts

ice, much like other esteemed spirits like Bourbon,

a distinctive taste profile perfect for sipping or crafting

Scotch, or Cognac.”

flavourful cocktails. With notes of orange peel, toffee,

To delve deeper into the world of Diplomático,

and licorice, Reserva Exclusiva is characterised as

visit https://rondiplomatico.com, or reach out to

‘complex and well-balanced, with hints of wood and

Brown-Forman for more information on stocking

vanilla, culminating in a seductive, enduring finish’.

Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva or the extensive

Dany Karpf, Diplomático’s Brand Manager, expressed Brown-Forman’s excitement, saying: “We are delighted to announce the newest addition to Brown-Forman’s super premium spirits collection – the beloved rum that holds a special place in the hearts of the hospitality industry. This exciting inclusion 12 | National Liquor News

Diplomático Rum range.

■

IWSR, rum category, super premium and above segment, volume sales in 9L cases. 2022 2 IWSR, rum category, volume sales in 9L cases (Change 2017-2022 CAGR) 3 IWSR, total spirits, volume sales in 9L cases (Projection 2022-2027 CAGR) 1

“We want to redefine the perception of rum in Australia.

Rum can embody elegance and complexity, elevating classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned or Manhattan, but it can also be enjoyed neat or over ice, much like other esteemed spirits like Bourbon, Scotch, or Cognac.”

Dany Karpf, Brand Manager, Diplomático

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK BILLIE EILISH METALLICA NEW KIDS BLOCK BILLIE EILISH METALLICA NEW KIDS ONON THETHE BLOCK BILLIE EILISH METALLICA

DEF RAY CHARLES EH DEFLEPPARD LEPPARD RAY CHARLES DEF LEPPARD RAY CHARLES EHEH BLINK-182 MONICA LL COOL J THE KROOKS LEE PERRY BLINK-182 MONICA COOL J THE KROOKS PERRY BLINK-182 MONICA LL LL COOL J THE KROOKS LEELEE PERRY SPICE GIRLS AMY ANDR SPICE GIRLS AMYWINEHOUSE ANDR SPICE GIRLS AMY WINEHOUSE ANDR KYLIE MINOGUE PHIL COLLINS LILWINEHOUSE WAYNE LORDE ARRESTED DEV

KYLIE MINOGUE PHIL COLLINS WAYNE LORDE ARRESTED KYLIE MINOGUE PHIL COLLINS LILLIL WAYNE LORDE ARRESTED DEVDEV

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LMG Conference

“I’m confident that we are delivering performance progress that we will look back on in 14 years and be very proud of what this group has achieved.”

Wayne Bayfield, Chairman, LMG

14 | National Liquor News

LMG Conference

Wayne Bayfield, Gavin Saunders, Michael Dennis

There’s more in store from LMG The Liquor Marketing Group held its national conference in Hawaii last month, Andy Young was there to hear about the group’s strong performance and its focus on continuing to be being better than yesterday.

The Liquor Marketing Group (LMG) said “Aloha” and “Mahalo nui loa” to its members last month, as more than 430 members, suppliers and invited guests gathered at the Moana Surfrider in Waikiki for the 2023 LMG National Conference.

Over the course of the week, there were three fundamental messages that everyone at LMG wanted all attendees to understand: members first, attracting one more shopper and be better than yesterday. It’s a James Brindley, Sam Attfield, Laura Hazelhurst, Andrew Geddes, Kerry Appathurai, Jeremy Turnham

triple mantra which has served the group well, and which has served members incredibly well.

The messaging that LMG is a member-focused group started on the opening night, when Chairman, Wayne Bayfield and CEO Gavin Saunders welcomed all the Hawaiian-shirt wearing delegates to the conference.

“Welcome everybody, 14 years ago we were in Hawaii, and we can reflect on the changes in that time, but also what has remained consistent, and that is that LMG is totally about its members. That hasn’t changed, and won’t change,” Bayfield said to the group.

“I would like to welcome the new members; I am sure you’re going to enjoy yourselves and welcome to the LMG family. It’s this connection and members working together that makes us a great group. We all should feel proud of what we have achieved and the advancements we have made over the last number of years.

“I’m confident that we are delivering performance progress that we will look back on in 14 years and be very proud of what this group has achieved.”

Saunders added: “It is outstanding to have 430 delegates here. We are a business of sociability and we all, on a daily basis, work hard and we will talk a lot about work, but it’s great to take the opportunity to reconnect and have some fun.

“I love that I work for a membership-based group and that all our members are our asset, thank you all for taking the time to come here, and thank you to everyone at the LMG team who has worked hard to put this conference together.”

October 2023 | 15

LMG Conference

In simple terms, the conference was of the highest quality, which in turn is reflected in the quality of the group and its members. This was highlighted in the business sessions, which detailed the incredible growth that LMG has delivered for its members.

In opening the business sessions, Saunders said the theme for this year’s conference was ‘Are you Ready?’ and with what was to follow, it’s a well-suited theme, preparing members – and suppliers – for how LMG is looking to build on the strong growth it has enjoyed recently.

Saunders emphasised this point saying: “We are incredibly proud of the performance of the group and your performance, but one of our key corporate values is ‘better than yesterday’, so while we are proud of the performance, all that does is give us a great platform and great asset to continue to grow.”

“We are incredibly proud of the performance of the group and your performance, but one of our key corporate values is ‘better than yesterday’, so while we are proud of the performance, all that does is give us a great platform and great asset to continue to grow.”

But what does that growth actually mean in real terms, for

Gavin Saunders,

LMG and its members? Over the last decade LMG and its

CEO, LMG

members have grown from a group that used to compare itself against the performance of other independents, to one that compares with, and now has aspiration, to challenge the majors.

And while that level of growth is very impressive it is clear that Saunders, and the whole LMG team does not want to rest on the laurels of what it has already achieved, it wants to keep on achieving more. It wants to be better than yesterday.

Over the last six years LMG has posted strong growth, the group is now 71 per cent bigger than it was in 2018, and it was already a big group back then. One of the driving factors behind that, and something that Saunders said the whole group was very proud of, is that it has achieved six consecutive years of quarter-on-quarter growth. But it’s not just the group that is enjoying strong growth, like-for-like venues have been growing at 32 per cent over the past four years.

In addition, LMG has added more than 116 new members over the past four years, which breaks down to an average of one new bannered member store every 1.8 weeks.

The growth that LMG has experienced has enabled the group to keep investing in its membership, and that investment in its people and its stores was a continual message throughout the conference, one highlight of this has seen 170 stores refreshed, to help drive ‘one more shopper’.

LMG’s General Manager of Merchandise and Marketing, Damien Page, explained this by saying: “This is a shopperdriven move and making sure we deliver the best possible shopping experience that we can, will continue to enhance the growth in this business.”

16 | National Liquor News

Simon Passmore, Brendan James, Sandy Christie

LMG Conference

Better than yesterday Looking ahead at how LMG will continue to be member first, to be about one more shopper and to be better than yesterday, Page said the last six years of strong growth in the group began with the ‘Start at Bottlemart’, ‘Start at SipnSave’ marketing platform.

“This was the moment in time where we drew a line in the sand and talked about shopper first with everything we do”, Page said, adding that while the campaign has served the group well and has helped drive growth, it is time for a refresh and so the group has launched a new marketing platform for its Bottlemart and SipnSave stores.

The new platform was unveiled by LMG’s Head of Marketing, Ben Slocombe with the tagline ‘There’s more in store’. But as Slocombe explained, this platform is much more than just a tagline. He described it as an integrated campaign that brings the whole group together, puts members first and tells the story of what the brand promise is for Bottlemart and SipnSave.

Slocombe said: “If we are going to tell people our story, what are we going to say? It is a highly competitive liquor retail world that we live in, it’s a difficult world that we live in, and it can be hard to find growth. So, what’s the most compelling thing we can say?”

Rita Smith, Peter Brien, Annie Smith

He added: “What does ‘there’s more in store’ mean? The new platform there’s more in store rationally says to people that we are going to always have them covered. We are going to have more deals, we are going to have more service, we are going to have more friendly staff, more range and more convenience. Anything you need, we are going to have you covered.

“But it’s also an idiom because it also means we have got more in store coming for the shoppers, we have got something more for you, we are going to be more innovative, there’s something around the corner. There’s more in store is a very powerful message for us.

“For retailers this is also a great message for those important occasions throughout the year – there’s more in store for Christmas, there’s more in store for Mother’s Day, there’s more in store for footy finals, you can see how we can apply it and just how versatile this is for us as retailers.”

After this conference it is also clear that there is more in store for

Sophie Watson, Kim Watson, Brett Watson, Nick Watson, Toby Watson

LMG and in particular for its members, with Page highlighting that what LMG is passionate about is “driving our members’ performance every day of the week”. The better the members do, the more LMG is able to invest in its membership, to help them do even better, it’s a perpetual motion model that has proven itself over the past six years and more.

With a new marketing platform in place, strong growth to build on and investment in members a core focus of LMG, one more shopper and being better than yesterday the future looks bright and looks exciting for LMG and its members. There is definitely more in store.

■

October 2023 | 17

IBA Trade Workshop

IBA is building the Network of the Future Independent Brands Australia gave members an insight into how it is building its Network of the Future at its 2023 Trade Workshop in Cairns.

Independent Brands Australia (IBA)

been fortunate enough to travel around the

“In the IBA network we have 1,300 stores,

2023 Trade Workshop was held in Cairns

world and see lots of different retail formats

that’s more than any of our competitors. Our

last month, with an underlying theme of

and I can tell you that you guys stack up and,

retailers are local, so we can have a range

building a ‘Network of the Future’.

in many cases, surpass the rest of the world.”

tailored for that local community, and we

Metcash Group CEO Doug Jones

Jones then went on to speak about

can have a service offering that is for locals,

welcomed the group of more than 570 IBA

IBA’s purpose of championing successful

by locals. So, I do think that we have some

retailer members and supplier partners on

independents and highlighted some of the

incredibly strong assets, and reason to

day one of business sessions and spoke about

strengths of the IBA network.

believe that we have a firm and sustainable

Australia’s thriving independent retail sector.

He said: “Our purpose is championing

route to win.”

“I’m not sure that everybody appreciates

successful independents, and that’s also our

just how wonderful the independent retail

strategy. There really are four key areas where

Celebrating success

sector in Australia is. I think it’s a national

you can make a difference as an independent

John

treasure, and I don’t say that lightly. I think

retailer. You can win on range, you can win

Merchandise & Operations, ALM, provided

that it should be protected and afforded the

on service, you can win through price, and

an update on the successes of the past four

respect and admiration that it deserves.

Barakat,

General

Manager

you can win through convenience. You can’t

years since IBA last gathered for a national

“Independent retailers in this country are

win on all four, but you can make some

Trade Workshop. He also spoke about IBA’s

as good as anywhere in the world. I have

strong choices about where you’re able to win.

ambition to become the best liquor retail

18 | National Liquor News

network in Australia and the steps the

delivering around five to 15 per cent growth

Network of the Future

business is taking to get there.

back into those stores.

The theme of the Trade Workshop was

“A lot has happened over the last four

He continued: “We’ve also developed,

building the ‘Network of the Future’,

years,” he said. “Who would have thought

launched, and executed an in-store

as outlined by Rod Pritchard, General

in early 2020, everybody’s life was going

excellence program. In the last few years that

Manager, Strategy & Transformation.

to change. It’s been crazy times, but we got

has delivered $1.7m back to our members

With emphasis on the development of

through it.

and is driving incremental foot traffic back

IBA’s digital and data capability. The focus

into your stores.

for IBA and its retail network is one of

“What has evolved in our business and what we’ve developed, launched, and

“We continue to launch brand

executed over the last four years, has been

campaigns, driving awareness and appeal,

quite significant. And that’s allowed us to

and conversion into your stores. Off the back

Highlighting the pace of change across

add value back into your stores to obviously

of that, we’ve been able to build stronger

the market in recent years, Pritchard

drive foot traffic.

promotional programs and be competitive

encouraged commitment from the retailers

in market.”

to embrace the opportunity with some

“We have done this by driving growth

continuous improvement, rather than a destination.

through brand awareness, and shopper

Barakat also highlighted the launch of

urgency, “as the future is now”.

value. We’ve launched e-commerce, and

ALM Connect and the impending launch

In referencing IBA’s scale as its

we’ve launched loyalty over the last four

of ALM One-Stop-Shop, which are creating

competitive advantage, Pritchard also

years. We’ve developed our own exclusive

a frictionless environment for its retailers.

identified the work that IBA has done over

portfolio. We’ve partnered with suppliers to

He concluded: “It feels good to reflect on

the past few years to ensure they have the

build other exclusives, so that portfolio will

the past, and we really should celebrate the

‘retail fitness’ to enable the Network of the

continue to grow.”

giant leap we’ve made. But, in our minds,

Future strategy. By leveraging data and

Barakat said that since 2019, the business

it is just another forward step in a long-

insights through shopper, basket scan,

has worked to enhance the quality of its

term journey of becoming the best liquor

loyalty and e-commerce, IBA is focused

network by investing in store upgrades and

network in Australia. That’s our ambition,

on generating consistent and sustainable

cool room relays, with more than 530 of

and ties back into our theme of Network

growth for its members, attracting shoppers

those having been completed over this time,

of the Future.”

through their doors and online.

October 2023 | 19

“It’s time to face into some of the

plans to incentivise and reward its most

to innovate and to raise the quality of

challenges of our model. The reality is

disciplined retailers to raise the level of

execution within the stores to accelerate

that scale is absolutely our key strength,

execution in-store, while maintaining

their growth, he also acknowledged that it

but it’s also a challenge. The reality is our

current programs for those retailers who are

may not be for everyone.

network is not created equally. Our 1,500

not ready or capable of taking that next step.

“We will continue to support those

stores are not created equally, and nor are

Pritchard flagged the introduction of a

retailers within the status quo. If they’re

the retailers operating each of those stores.

loyalty program for their Porters retailers

happy with the status quo, that’s great. But

The store standards vary store to store and

in the new year, replicating the programs

we really want to challenge and reward our

store delivery changes store to store. Our

that are currently active in Cellarbrations

best retailers for stepping up their game.

model has largely been a ‘one-size-fits-most’

and Bottle-O stores, as well as the inclusion

And we also want to challenge the pack to

solution before now. We aim to utilise the

of liquor offers across the IGA grocery store

become fitter,” Pritchard concluded.

data to bring a more tailored approach,”

rewards program for IGA+ Liquor retailers.

Pritchard explained.

Pritchard spoke positively of the

Striving to be the best

IBA’s Network of the Future strategy

traction of the Bottle-O and Cellarbrations

Australian Liquor Marketers (ALM) CEO

will adopt a two-speed approach, allowing

retailers in the e-commerce space, with

Chris Baddock reiterated Jones and Barakat’s

those retailers who are striving for more

Bottle-O receiving 1.1 million online visits

messages, highlighting that the independent

to achieve it. A key area of focus is loyalty,

and Cellarbrations receiving 1.5 million

retail trade is “here to stay”.

which will enable customer personalisation,

online visits this year alone. For retailers

He said: “Our theme of ‘Network of the

recommendations, and insights, and IBA

in the eastern states, the rise of on-demand

Future’ is about striving to do everything in

knows it will only become more important

delivery is another opportunity that ALM

our power to make sure that we bring that

in coming years. Customers are more willing

is keen to help members to capitalise on.

future closer and that we bring the consumer

to share their data with a retailer if it results

While Pritchard underlined IBA’s

through your doors. That we support our

in discounts on their purchases or a better

ambition in developing its Network of

suppliers and partner brands, and that we

understanding of them as a shopper. IBA

the Future is to encourage its members

do that together. We’re in the future today.”

20 | National Liquor News

IBA Trade Workshop

IBA FIVE STAR AWARD WINNERS

Baddock referenced a proverb: ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.’

STATE BRAND WINNERS

OVERALL STATE WINNERS

Cellarbrations

NSW-ACT: Cellarbrations

NSW-ACT: Cellarbrations Wingham

Wingham

NT: Cellarbrations Katherine

NT: The Bottle-O Pit Lane

QLD: Cellarbrations Superstore

QLD: Cellarbrations Superstore

Narangba Valley Tavern

Narangba Valley Tavern

SA: Cellarbrations at Mannum

SA: Cellarbrations at Mannum

TAS: Cellarbrations Kingston

TAS: Cellarbrations Kingston

VIC: Cellarbrations at Monbulk

VIC: Cellarbrations at Monbulk

WA: Cellarbrations Denham

WA: Cellarbrations Denham

The Bottle-O

STATE BUSINESS

NSW-ACT: The Bottle-O

DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Hazelbrook

NSW-ACT: Kristy Baker

NT: The Bottle-O Pit Lane

QLD: Ben Lysaght

QLD: The Bottle-O at Hervey Bay

Southern Region: Nick Martens

He said: “We truly believe that partnership will

TAS: The Bottle-O Foreshore Hotel

Western & Central Region:

take us much further. It’ll take us together, we’ll do

VIC: The Bottle-O Monacellars,

Vanessa Jennings

it together, and when you’re doing it with somebody

Warragul

else – that is you the retailer, us Metcash, and of course the suppliers, all focused on the consumer – I truly believe that we can do it better.”

He then went on to also reference ALM and IBA’s core purpose of championing successful independents and spoke to why the word ‘successful’ is such an integral part of that purpose.

“Successful is about this group of people – you’re the true believers and you’re here because you believe

WA: The Bottle-O Dongara

National Retailer of the Year: IGA Liquor

Shane and Tanya Madden

NSW-ACT: IGA Liquor Sovereign

and Stephen and Mel Young,

Place

Cellarbrations Wingham

VIC: Waldron’s Fresh on River IGA+

National Store Manager of the

Liquor

Year: Will Clarke, Cellarbrations Wingham

Thirsty Camel NT: Thirsty Camel Cavenagh

in us going together and going far. Successful in my

QLD: Thirsty Camel at Steampunk

view is those who truly believe in striving to be the

Ferny Ave

best that they can be, and you’ll see throughout these

SA: Thirsty Camel at The Highway

two days, that we want to take those who want to be

TAS: Thirsty Camel Marquis Hotel

successful, those who want to be fit, those who want to achieve bigger and better things, and how we’re going to do it.

“We need to ensure that this network is full of individuals who want to be the absolute best that they can be.”

NATIONAL WINNERS

National Retail Business Development Manager of the Year: Kristy Baker National Supplier of the Year (Large): CUB Premium Beverages National Supplier of the Year

Porters Liquor

(Small): Samuel Smith & Son /

NSW: Porters Liquor Lansval

Negociants

TAS: Porters Liquor Bellerive

HALL OF FAME Jean Crowley

WA: Porters Liquor Claremont

■

October 2023 | 21

ILG Member Spotlight

Maximising customer experience Molly Nicholas talks to retailer Jim Monaghan about the personal approach of Wilberforce Cellars and Super Cellars Warilla.

Jim Monaghan

In two New South Wales towns, Jim Monaghan has developed an

finds, impeccable quality, and exceptional variety that our customers

approach to retail that celebrates community. At Wilberforce Cellars

simply can’t resist.”

and Super Cellars Warilla, the philosophy focuses on four pillars: community, service, understanding, and value.

This kind of approach has earned Wilberforce Cellars and Super Cellars Warilla the loyal support of local customers. In a retail

With customer needs constantly evolving, Monaghan, who also

industry where businesses can often feel impersonal, Monaghan

owns Premium Liquor Group, spoke about the difficulties facing

explained how his staff have been able to form connections with

many retailers, and the values helping his stores overcome them.

customers who cherish a personal touch.

“In today’s world, the retail industry faces many challenges

“We know our customers by name and greet them like old friends.

that are reshaping the way the business operates. One of the most

This welcoming atmosphere is a cornerstone of what makes our

significant issues is the rapid advancement of e-commerce, which

store so special, most of our customers have known our staff since

has disrupted traditional bottle shop operations.

they were kids.

“Customer experience and personalisation are another frontier

“We take immense pride in our store environment. Constant

where battle lines are being drawn. In the era of instant gratification,

upgrades are routine for us – from ambient lighting to artfully

consumers demand not only products but also personalised

designed displays. Every detail is curated to make the shopping

shopping experiences.”

experience not just convenient, but genuinely enjoyable. It’s a place

At the heart of both stores is a steadfast commitment to the

where you can browse, discover, and feel at home.

local community, which has given them a competitive advantage.

“Perhaps most importantly, we are dedicated treasure hunters. We

Fostering relationships with local suppliers not only supports

tirelessly search for unique, exceptional products – especially those

independent businesses, but offers customers a unique range of stock.

not stocked elsewhere – and negotiate them to great value for our

“Customer service is an integral part of our business. We strive

customers. Our shelves are a testament to our adventurous spirit,

to create an atmosphere that is as welcoming as it is knowledgeable,”

offering an eclectic and exclusive range that caters to both the classic

Monaghan added. “Our friendly, local and passionate team is always

connoisseur and the curious explorer.”

ready to guide, recommend and educate, turning every visit into an experience and every customer into a friend.

“Understanding our customers preferences is paramount to us.

Putting personality at the heart of the retail experience, Monaghan believes that understanding customer intelligence is the key to addressing the issue of disengaged customers.

We listen, learn and curate our products accordingly, ensuring that

“We need to harness data analytics and artificial intelligence

our selection is reflective of our customers’ tastes and needs. Our

technologies to glean insights into consumer behaviour and

shelves are not stocked arbitrarily, they are carefully composed so

preferences, thus enabling tailored marketing strategies and

they resonate with our clientele.

personalised shopping experiences that foster loyalty and increasing

“Our big movers are carefully curated selections that strike a perfect balance between quality and value. They represent exciting 22 | National Liquor News

sales. We need to utilise supplier information and data to give our customers the best offering.”

■

Liquor Legends

Liquor Legends takes international conference to Italy Liquor Legends has held its international conference in Italy, with a group of 155 members, suppliers, and Liquor Legends staff in attendance.

A record number of delegates took part in the 2023 Liquor Legends international conference, which commenced in Milan with a welcome cocktail event at the Excelsior Gallia Hotel.

During the Milan stay, Bacardi hosted a cocktail reception at Martina Terrazza, while Campari hosted a mixology session followed by an aperitif dinner at Camperino Galleria.

The following day, attendees travelled to Rome, stopping in Florence on the way to enjoy a lunch hosted by Treasury Premium Brands at Za Za Restaurant. Checking into the Anantara Palazzo in

Delegates enjoying the sights of Rome

Rome, Lion hosted a Birra Moretti La Festa Con Amica, a “party with friends”, in the ballroom at the St Regis Hotel.

While in Rome, the conference saw the Liquor Legends business sessions highlight strong group performance, Advantage Survey success, exciting transformative digital marketing plans and technical retail advancements with electronic shelf labels. This was followed by supplier and member rotating sessions for topical discussion and presentation.

At the conference, Anglers Inn in South Australia was announced as the Liquor Legends Retailer of the Year, and William Grant & Sons was awarded Supplier of the Year. The awards were celebrated with a dinner hosted by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners on the rooftop of

DJ-ing Sunset at Martini Terrazza Rooftop

All smiles as Lion hosted a Birra Moretti La Festa Con Amica

Supply partners enjoying Cantine Santa Benedetta

Rome’s Anantara Palazzo.

The trip involved plenty of sightseeing around Rome, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Vatican, ending with an exhilarating tour of the city on the back of 20 Vespa scooters. At a dinner hosted by Diageo at the Cantine Santa Benedetta, delegates experienced the Italian love of pasta making, accompanied with great wine and true family passion.

The final evening saw delegates come together to celebrate a wonderful week with an Italian-themed dress up at House of Peroni,

Rome’s Anantara Palazzo with Pete and Pete from CCEP

hosted by Carlton & United Breweries. Closing the conference, Managing Director John Carmody thanked all members, supply partners and staff for their support over recent years. Carmody thanked the delegates for their attendance, noting that Liquor Legends values the relationships formed on this trip and has no doubt they will contribute to the success of the group.

From here, 60 per cent of the group extended their trip and continued to Sorrento where they explored the Amalfi Coast for another three nights before making the journey home.

■

John Carmody leading the Birra Moretti imposters at La Festa Con Amica ‘Party With Friends’

October 2023 | 23

News The latest liquor industry

For retailers around the country

Retail theft returns to pre-pandemic levels According to ‘The rising cost of retail theft?

Trends in steal from retail to June 2023,’ a report by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR), retail theft has now returned to prepandemic levels, increasing 47.5 per cent year-onyear since October 2021 to June 2023.

Unfortunately for our industry, liquor was the most frequently reported stolen item in retail theft

Campari Group CEO to retire Following 18 years with the company, including 16 as CEO, Campari Group boss Bob Kunze-Concewitz has announced his plans to retire in April 2024, to pursue his personal passions.

incidents in both 2018/19 and 2022/23. Liquor

During his time as CEO Kunze-Concewitz has overseen 27

was recorded as being stolen in 37 per cent of

acquisitions, which have helped Campari grow by around three

retail theft incidents in 2022/23 and this has

times in net sales and profitability. In recognition of these efforts,

increased in the past five years (up 422 incidents).

he was recently named Best CEO of the Beverages sector in the

This puts licensed premises as the second most

2023 Developed Europe Executive Team ranking by Institutional

common premises to incur retail theft, just behind

Investor Research.

supermarkets. Additionally, the number of reported

The Board of Directors has selected Matteo Fantacchiotti,

incidents of retail theft from licensed premises has

Managing Director Asia Pacific, as the new CEO nominee. To ensure

increased by 13 per cent since 2018/19, second

an orderly and smooth handover, Fantacchiotti has been appointed

only to general wholesalers.

Deputy CEO effective immediately.

In terms of locations in NSW that are showing

“Leading Campari Group has been an incredible honour, the

the biggest increases in retail theft, BOCSAR said

most exciting professional journey in my career. We have achieved

that of the state’s 28 statistical areas, only eight

impressive results, which I am extremely proud of, but none of them

recorded notably more retail theft incidents in

would have been possible without the extraordinary contribution,

2022/23 than in 2018/19. BOCSAR said because

passion, and commitment of every single Camparista around the

so few statistical areas are showing marked

world,” said Kunze-Concewitz.

increases in retail theft over this period, there is

“I feel honoured and proud about the appointment. The impressive

no support for the cost-of-living crisis driving an

achievements of the Group under Bob’s visionary leadership are an

increase in this offence.

inspiration for me to continue on this journey, building on our proven

The report concludes that because many

growth strategy, in continuity with the past, combining a strong brand

retailers may perceive that, on balance, the costs

building with value enhancing acquisitions,” Fantacchiotti added.

of reporting outweigh the benefits, this can create

After retiring, Kunze-Concewitz is expected to become Non-

difficulties for BOCSAR to accurately assess the

Executive Director of the company, which the Board of Directors will

level of theft experienced by retailers.

propose at the company’s Annual General Meeting on 11 April 2024.

24 | National Liquor News

News

NT Government trials changes to Gove Peninsula Liquor Permit scheme The NT government is running a six-month trial for changes to the Gove Peninsula Liquor Permit scheme, which regulates the purchase of takeaway alcohol in the Gove Peninsula. The trial will run from 1 October 2023 to 31 March 2024, and will be rolled out in Nhulunbuy, Yirrkala, Gunyaŋara and Birritjimi.

The changes to the permit system will reduce the six permit levels to a four-level tier system, and a maximum daily limit will replace the current unrestricted permit. The permit system review submitted to advisory group Gove Peninsula Harmony Group identified secondary supply of alcohol as a major issue, which has been exacerbated by the unrestricted permit.

Alongside suggested changes to the permit system, the GPHG report recommended more culturally appropriate signage with relevant messages about the problem of secondary supply.

“The primary objective of these changes is to enhance community safety and combat secondary supply of alcohol, where alcohol purchased legally is distributed to those without permits,” said Northern Territory Chief Minister and Minister for Alcohol Policy Natasha Fyles.

Retail Drinks CEO Michael Waters, said the association supports the

Kylie Minogue Wines signs distribution deal with OFWM Premium wine distributor Oatley Fine Wine

implementation of relevant, evidence-based, and targeted policies to

Merchants (OFWM) has announced the latest

address and reduce problems associated with the misuse of alcohol, as

addition to its portfolio, Kylie Minogue Wines.

opposed to broad, whole-of-population control measures.

“We look forward to continuing working proactively and collaboratively

Minogue spoke about the success of the brand, saying: “I am unbelievably humbled and thrilled

with the Northern Territory Government on its development of alcohol

by the global response to Kylie Minogue Wines.

policy throughout the Territory, including in regional and remote

To be the number one rosé brand in the UK and

communities,” Waters said.

selling over nine million bottles since we launched across 31 countries is an incredible testimony to the amazing producers and winemakers that we are lucky enough to work alongside.”

Since its launch in 2020, Kylie Minogue Wines has released nine wines, including the Prosecco Rosé, the UK’s number one selling branded Prosecco Rosé accumulating £11.8 million worth of total sales, and the Signature Rosé and Zero Percent Alcohol Sparkling Rosé. In the three years since its first release, the brand has sold more than nine million bottles worldwide.

Sandy Oatley, Owner and Chairman of OFWM, said it was a privilege to represent Kylie Minogue Wines in Australia, given their global success.

“It will be an absolute pleasure for our team to represent Kylie’s outstanding wines in the Australian market and to share with our valued customers,” he said.

October 2023 | 25

Marketplace Brand news and promotions Australia’s best cider is organic Summer is on the way, and now is the time to stock up with Australia’s best cider, Willie Smith’s Tasmanian. Made on the farm from 100 per cent Tasmanian apples, Willie Smith’s Organic Apple Cider and Non-Alc Apple Cider are both Australian Certified Organic.

As Australia’s first organic cidery, Willie Smith’s cidermakers capture orchard-fresh flavours by growing, crushing, fermenting and making cider all on the family farm, which dates back to 1888.

New Coopers Australian Lager hitting the spot The latest beer release from Coopers Brewery has struck a chord with drinkers across Australia.

Coopers Australian Lager was released in August

Willie Smith’s has built a reputation as a leading organic drinks

with the strong market response exceeding the

producer over the past decade. Its philosophy is to harness the freshest

independent family-owned brewery’s own high

apple flavours to create complex, yet approachable beverages.

expectations.

Willie’s is one of the pioneers of craft cidermaking in Australia and

“We knew we had come up with a great tasting,

has been recognised as the best producer in Australia, taking out the

easy drinking lager so it’s pleasing to see Australian

Best in Show and the most successful larger producer at the 2022

drinkers responding so enthusiastically,” said Michael

Australian Cider Awards.

Shearer, General Manager, Coopers Brewery.

With summer just around the corner, now is the time to ensure your

“The very positive market feedback we’ve received

venue is well-stocked with Australia’s best ciders in the fridge or on

indicates that Coopers Australian Lager is well

the shelf.

positioned to be a popular beer of choice.

Willie Smith’s Organic Apple Cider is available at RRP $75 and

“This refreshing beer is attracting new drinkers into

Willie Smith’s Non-Alc Apple Cider is available at RRP $55 per

the Coopers brand, people who may not have been

16x355ml cases.

ale drinkers and instead prefer the lager style.”

Coopers Australian Lager is available in all states and major retailers with the eye-catching turquoise design a standout in-store and on beer taps.

With a bright golden hue originating from Coopers’ own lager malt, the lager features stone fruit and citrus aromas, with a dash of late hopping adding subtle tropical notes.

“We’re passionate about quality at Coopers,” Shearer continued. “We set out to create a modern Australian lager that is more flavoursome and contemporary compared with the traditional lagers in the market. Coopers Australian Lager looks and tastes great, and rightfully takes its place within our permanent beer portfolio.”

The Coopers Australian Lager release is being supported with a national OOH and digital campaign as well as activations with retailers and major events across the country.

26 | National Liquor News

Marketplace

New look for Devil’s Corner Premium Cuvée wines born from a land of wild contradictions and unforgiving seas;

Australian Vintage launches Tempus One Spritzer

reflecting both the beauty of our challenging and pristine landscape –

With the wine category experiencing

and the boldness and tenacity of the people who create them.

a steady decline among Gen Z and

Devil’s Corner, Australia’s number one Tasmanian Wine Brand*, represents

Tasmania offers amazing and varied expressions of cool climate

Millennials, Australian Vintage is

viticulture and wine grown in stunning vistas from the Tamar Valley

encouraging the younger generation to

in the north, the picturesque and rugged coastal areas on the east

try something new with the release of its

coast or along the Derwent and Huon rivers in the south. This cool

new flavour-forward Tempus One Spritzer.

climate provides an outstanding environment to craft premium

In the last 12 months, almost two thirds

wines and particularly sparkling wines recognised the world over.

of 18- to 24-year-olds have consumed

Devil’s Corner Premium Cuvée has recently evolved its packaging

RTDs, making the Tempus One Spritzer

in an exciting new look, which dials up more premium and category

the perfect format to encourage trial

cues to attract discerning shoppers and stand out on shelf and in the fridge. The

and challenge younger consumers to

same great tasting wine is a lively blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes

diversify their drinking habits.

that combine zesty citrus fruits with creamy, bright aromas for a crisp dry finish.

Made from delicious fruit Prosecco,

This Cuvée is made from selected sites at its Tasmanian vineyards. Cool ripening

Tempus One is all about flavour,

conditions produce sparkling wines of great delicacy, elegance, and finesse.

described as “fruity, juicy and

The new look packaging is in market now through all major channels. To

refreshing”. A brand that is built around

maximise your sparkling sales during key selling periods or for any queries contact

the Sundowner occasion, the new wine

your Brown Family Wine Group representative or customer service on 1800 001 515.

spritzer encompasses simple good times

*Circana Scan Australian Liquor Weighted QTR 03.09.23 (Value & Volume)

and being in the moment.

At one standard drink, Tempus One is

Blushing blends

an approachable RTD with a sessionable ABV. Perfect to drink on those long days,

Strongbow has relaunched its

and even longer nights, Tempus One

Blossom Rosé Cider, a blend of

is a drink for sharing and celebrating,

apple cider and rosé wine, with

all summer long. Using its Live Nation

an ABV of 8.2 per cent. The drink

partnership, Tempus One will be poured

is aimed at both wine and cider

at festivals over the summer, targeting

drinkers, with a particular focus

its key audience and recruiting a new

on millennial and Gen Z drinkers.

generation of wine drinkers who will be

Rebecca Richardson, Cider

coming back for more.

Trade Activation and Marketing Manager for Drinkworks, spoke to the appeal of Strongbow Blossom Rosé Cider.

“For us, Strongbow Blossom Rosé provides consumers with an alternative to wine – a sophisticated offering with all the cues of rosé, combined with cider. Blossom Rosé is an easy drinking, flavoursome, refreshing rosé cider, perfect for warmer days and catch ups with friends,” she said.

Richardson also explained that the colour is another selling point for consumers.

“Serving it in glass allows the consumers to see the beautiful blush hue of Blossom Rose Cider, cueing refreshment and taste,” she added.

October 2023 | 27

Marketplace

Wild Turkey collectible edition launches In another booming year for the RTD category, the high ABV segment is currently in double-digit growth. Lending itself well to the high ABV trend is the Bourbon RTD segment, which is seeing increased consumer spending and premiumisation at a faster rate than the total RTD category.

Following these trends, Wild Turkey is set to release its well-loved, high ABV Bourbon and Cola Heritage liquid in a new collector’s edition can.

A limited-edition release for Wild Turkey connoisseurs, the Heritage Edition Wild Turkey & Cola is the first in a three-part series celebrating Wild Turkey’s rich heritage. This year’s can celebrates the distillery, inspired by the silhouette of the famous Kentucky tobacco barn, the Wild Turkey distillery is a timehonoured icon celebrating 90 years since it was rebuilt in 1933.

Along with the release of the collectible can, Wild Turkey is

Gravity Seltzer introduces new Watermelon & Salty Lemon flavour Gravity Seltzer has released its

giving Bourbon aficionados the chance to win a trip to the Kentucky distillery. The

Watermelon & Salty Lemon flavour, a

can will be ranging exclusively with independent retailers across the country from

new addition to both its alcoholic and

Wednesday 1 November.

non-alcoholic ranges, and already proving to be a winner with fans of the brewed hard seltzer.

In the short 18 months since its launch, Gravity Seltzer has already managed to capture two per cent of Australia’s seltzer market, and this is partly due to flavour innovation, as well as strategic partnerships. Championed by elite athletes including Matt Poole and Cooper Chapman, the brand that inspires the population to #ExploreMore and rethink their drinking habits has proven to be a

Hit the key summer flavours with your brand

winner in the Australian market.

The big point of difference with

As we close in on summer once again, changing Australian drinking trends can make it

Gravity Seltzer is that it is naturally

a challenging time for many brands. Developing great flavours that work for your brand

brewed, but without the sugar, ethanol

is not an easy process, but this is where Zymus can help you. With more than 30 years of

and calories associated with other RTDs

experience in developing products and flavours across the food and beverage industry,

and beer.

Zymus can work with you to find the perfect flavour for your brand this summer.

Whether it’s a watermelon seltzer, alcoholic ginger beer, fruit lager or even a new

As part of Gravity’s commitment to nurturing the environment, it has

flavoured gin, Zymus is here to help build your brand and will work with you from concept

partnered with environmental restoration

to formulation, formulating everything from alcoholic, non-alcoholic, health and wellness

company Airseed, which plants seeds

finished product concepts.

around NSW via drone for every

With customers ranging from global iconic brands through to local start-ups Zymus

product sold. In the last two months,

has the team, the knowledge, and the experience to bring a whole new dynamic, and

the Australian organisation has planted

a whole new flavour to your brand. So don’t delay, and don’t miss out on this summer’s

4,200 seed pods across 102,800.6sqm of

hottest drinks trends, speak to the Zymus team today, by contacting 1800 009 627 or

land, also removing 716.1kgs of Co2 in the

head to Zymus.net.

Snowy Mountains.

28 | National Liquor News

McArthur Ridge arrives in Australia McArthur Ridge Wines of Central Otago has appointed Vintage House Wine & Spirits, owned by fifth generation Angove Family Winemakers, as its exclusive national distributor in Australia.

Located in the heart of this spectacular mountainous region, where schist ‘Tors’ dominate the arid landscape, sits McArthur Ridge vineyard dedicated to producing exceptional Pinot Noir.

The vineyards sit on an elevated plateau, planted across a set of gentle northern slopes to capture maximum warmth. Set at altitude, the Alexandra Basin is the southernmost Pinot Noir producing area on the planet, some say this pristine cool climate environment is among the best in the world for growing Pinot Noir.

The multi-award-winning range to be carried by Vintage House Wine & Spirits includes the Brassknocker Pinot Noir, Southern Tor Pinot Noir, McArthur Pinot Noir and Falls Dam Pinot Gris.

Awards include Trophy Champion Pinot Noir at 2001 NZIWS, two trophies at the 2022 IWSC, four gold medals, 96 points from Decanter and a slew of five-star reviews including Bob Campbell MW choosing McArthur Ridge Southern Tor 2020 as his Business Desk wine of the year.

McArthur Ridges Head Winemaker Matt Connell added the final touches by winning the mantle as New Zealand’s Top Winemaker at the 2022 NZ International Wine Show. Most recently, the 2021 vintage Southern Tor Pinot Noir collected a gold medal and trophy at the 2023 International Wine Challenge in London.

PROVIDING INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR THE FOOD AND BEVERAGE INDUSTRY Zymus are product formulators providing innovative solutions for the food and beverage industry. We supply an extensive range of Natural and Synthetic Flavours, Extracts, Colours, Enzymes, key food ingredients and processing aids for all your beverage and brewing needs.

Our customers range from start-ups to global leaders in the food and beverage industry.

We work with you from concept to formulation, formulating everything from alcoholic, non-alcoholic, health and wellness finished product concepts.

How can Zymus assist your business? Call us or, even better, come and visit us in Sydney or Auckland and see for yourself exactly what benefits we could offer you.

Zymus Australia 1 Smidmore Street, Marrickville 2204 NSW 1800 009 627 Zymus International Ltd 626 Rosebank Road, Avondale, Auckland 1026 +64 9 820 0075 info@zymus.net www.zymus.net

Marketplace

Fuji launches its Single Blended Japanese Whisky Vanguard Luxury Brands brings Japanese craftmanship and masterful blending to Australia with its latest whisky, the Fuji Single Blended Japanese Whisky. Blending malt whisky and different types of grain whiskies, all produced under the one roof at Fuji Gotemba, three different distilling methods are used, each with their own unique flavour profile.

The blend comprises of malt whisky made using traditional pot stills; the Bourbon style uses beer column and doubler stills, presenting a high rye content in the mash bills. The Canadian method uses a kettle still during the batch process creating a rich profile, and the Scotch style uses five different column stills with continuous distillation to create a lighter style.

The embodiment of Fuji Gotemba’s commitment to uniqueness in whisky making, this single blended whisky is based on the concept of the ‘terroir of time’. Referring to the distillery’s location at the foot of Mt. Fuji, the whisky is nurtured by the natural environment.

With a fruity aroma, the whisky is described as having an “elegantly sweet, fruity and rich

Hard Fizz launches Extra Strength

aftertaste interwoven with a pleasantly long silky

Hard Fizz has launched a new range of RTDs, called Extra Strength, with

finish”. Aged for up to 16 years, and sitting at 43 per

four flavours and each one with six per cent ABV, taking each can up to

cent ABV, Fuji Single Blended Japanese Whisky has

1.6 standard drinks.

picked up gold this year at the World Whisky Awards (WWA) and International Spirits Challenge (ISC).

The Extra Strength range launches with raspberry, lemon-lime, grape and cola flavours, and CEO Wade Tiller said it has been created to give consumers another option.

“Some occasions absolutely call for a harder drink,” Tiller said.

“Hard Fizz has always been about ‘crew’ and Extra Strength ensures no one’s left out. This is a range we’ve been working on for a while behind the scenes so we’re very excited to finally release it.”

He added: “Extra Strength is here with a bang. I love the taste myself and I think it really hits the spot with that slightly harder six per cent ABV, so I expect there’ll be a strong demand for it.”

Hard Fizz Extra Strength will be available through SouthTrade International, following the recent distribution agreement, and is now launching nationwide for independent retailers.

The inverted can design sees a black trim rather than Hard Fizz’s usual silver colour and uses real fruit juice concentrate so is gluten free, vegan friendly and does not contain stevia, erythritol or any other artificial sweeteners.

30 | National Liquor News

SUMMER IS SERVED.

**NEW FRUIT TINGLE PACKAGING PICTURED AVAILABLE FROM DECEMBER.

Marketplace

Grown Spirits launches its eco-conscious Ocean Grown Gin Grown Spirits has launched its latest eco-conscious creation, Ocean Grown Gin. Packaged in a bold blue bottle, Ocean Grown Gin is the product of a new partnership with grassroots not-for-profit organisation Reef Restoration Foundation.

The ocean-inspired gin aims to make a tangible difference to the restoration and rejuvenation of Australia’s North Queensland coastline, with a share of profits from each bottle sold directed to coral reef restoration.

“This is a coastal gin that provokes memories of holidays by the sea, while serving as a reminder to protect the ocean and the powerful but delicate garden that grows beneath its surface,” said Will Miles, Co-founder of Grown Spirits.

Ocean Grown Gin is described as having “a delicate saline character on the nose, reminiscent of a gentle sea breeze from the Mediterranean showcasing notes of olive and savoury herbs. A bright and refreshing flavour profile unfolds on the palate with dry citrus notes and a warm hint of spice”.

New White Claw Refrshr lands in Australia Australians now have a new range of White Claw to enjoy with White Claw Refrshr now available in four flavours of alcoholic lemonade each at 4.5 per cent ABV, with one gram of carbs, 90 calories and gluten free.

The four flavours comprising the White Claw Refrshr range are: Limón with a hint of Calamansi, Strawberry with a hint of Kiwi, Blood Orange with a hint of Black Raspberry and Blackberry with a hint of Red Cherry.

Penni Terrey, Brand Director RTD at Lion said: “We’re thrilled to introduce White Claw Refrshr Alcoholic Lemonade in Australia. In just under three years, White Claw has become Australia’s favourite hard seltzer, with one in three seltzers consumed in Australia being White Claw.

“Following the establishment of our signature hint of flavour through our classic range and the Surge range that debuted in 2022, we recognised an opportunity to meet a gap in the current Australian seltzer market with Refrshr, offering a mindful choice with a range of exciting, bolder flavours.”

White Claw Refrshr Alcoholic Lemonade will be available as a Variety Pack featuring all four flavours, and Limón with a hint of Calamansi and Strawberry with a hint of Kiwi, will also be available in four-packs.

White Claw Refrshr Alcoholic Lemonade launched nationwide from Monday 25 September 2023 at Aussie bottle stores at RRP$27 for a four-pack and at RRP$55 for a Variety 10-pack.

32 | National Liquor News

Marketplace

Altos Tequila launches RTD range Pernod-Ricard’s award-winning Olmeca Altos Tequila is joining the ready-to-drink Margarita category launching with two flavours, lime and watermelon.

Altos successfully expanded into the ready-to-serve category last year and says that the new slightly sparkling Altos pre-mixed cocktails “deliver a refreshing taste” in the brand’s most convenient format to date.

Michael Merolli, CEO at House of Tequila, Pernod Ricard said: “Today’s time-pressed consumers are looking for easy ways to enjoy their favourite cocktails, and the ready-to-drink market is booming. But quality perceptions aren’t always positive in this segment.

“We’ve already successfully challenged those perceptions with the launch of larger format Altos Margarita ready-toserve bottles in Lime and Strawberry flavours last year. And now we’re on a mission to push this further by making this classic serve accessible on-the-go – showcasing that quality and convenience can go hand-in-hand.”

He added: “Altos is without a doubt the best placed tequila brand to achieve this, having consistently been voted the number one tequila for Margaritas by bartenders across the globe. Plus, both of our new flavours have come out best-in-class in consumer testing, scoring highly for overall enjoyment – so our ready-to-drink Margaritas are already set up for success.”

Available in cases of either four or six fully recyclable

Kendall Jenner’s 818 Tequila lands in Australia Having flown off the shelves in the US and UK, Kendall Jenner’s

330ml aluminium cans, Altos ready-to-drink Margarita

highly anticipated 818 Tequila is finally available in Australia

Lime and Altos ready-to-drink Margarita Watermelon are

following a nationwide rollout on Wednesday 4 October 2023.

five per cent ABV launched in Australia and New Zealand in September with a $24 to $27 RRP.

The 818 Tequila line includes the 818 Tequila Blanco, an ultrasmooth blend with a bright and crisp citrus finish, the 818 Tequila Reposado with a smooth caramel finish, and the 818 Tequila Añejo, a deep and complex tequila with a rich flavour profile.

The range is capped off with the Eight Reserve, a masterful blend of Añejos aged up to eight years and bottled in a hand-crafted ceramic decanter.

“We’re thrilled to be launching 818 Tequila in Australia,” said Tanya Mah, Head of Marketing at Amber Beverage Australia. “The demand for tequila has been rapidly increasing and shows no signs of slowing, Kendall Jenner and the 818 team are incredible brand partners and have created a brand that drives category excitement and can recruit new drinkers into agave.”

Dedicated to sustainable and traditional production methods, 818 Tequila has won more than 43 tasting awards at 13 international spirits competitions, including Best Reposado at the World Tequila Awards.

October 2023 | 33

Marketplace

Duxton Vineyards unveils Solara sparkling wines Duxton Vineyards has added new sparkling wine brand Solara to its portfolio of sustainably produced wines.

The Solara range, which includes a Prosecco and Chardonnay Pinot Noir, was launched last month to connect eco-conscious consumers with a quality sparkling from a sustainable Australian producer.

With Australian sparkling dominating the local wine market, contributing to 54 per cent of total sparkling value sales, Duxton Vineyards has tapped into the growing category with the release of its new Solara range ahead of summer.

Adopting vibrant packaging and the tagline ‘Live with fizz’, Solara is marketed to appeal to a millennial audience.

Wayne Ellis, General Manager at Duxton Vineyards,

Tempus Two makes Australian Gin history

said: “We have seen an increased appetite for consumers

Tempus Two Copper Series Shiraz Gin has won the Triple Still

for affordable sparkling wine options that don’t

Award winning double gold at the New York World Wine and

compromise on taste, and Solara is our response to this

Spirits Competition, Singapore World Spirits Competition and

demand. Solara Prosecco and Chardonnay Pinot Noir are

San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

fresh, flavourful and youthful, and perfect to enjoy as part of summer celebrations or festive drinking occasions.”

Retailing at $18.99 a bottle, Solara aims to offer

To win a double gold medal, each member of the 60-strong judging panel must award the spirit gold based on criteria including palate and quality.

consumers a high-quality Australian sparkling wine at

Following Tempus Two’s three successive World Spirits

an affordable price point, while embodying Duxton

Competition double gold wins, the drinks maker received an

Vineyards’ ethos for sustainable wine production.

additional accolade as the inaugural winner of the Triple Still Award – a new award for entrants that receive double gold in all three World Spirit Competitions.

Tom Dusseldorp, Chief Marketing Officer at Australian Vintage, the parent company of Tempus Two, says that this latest recognition affirms Tempus Two’s position as a leader in premium gins.

“We launched the Tempus Two Shiraz Gin last year with big ambitions to disrupt the market. Being the first brand to be awarded the Triple Still Award is a testament to the team’s dedication and skill. Using our winemaking know-how we developed this unique, world-class, artisan spirit that sits perfectly alongside the rest of the Tempus Two premium gin range.”

The Shiraz Gin, which earned the judges’ attention with its distinct characteristics of the wine varietal, was launched by Tempus Two last year, alongside the world’s first Prosecco Gin and a Wild Botanical Gin under the Copper Series gin range.

Retailing for RRP $85, the 100 per cent Shiraz Gin is made from Shiraz wine spirit and distilled with juniper berries, coriander, orange peel and Shiraz grapes.

34 | National Liquor News

averaged

60,497

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Contact Shane T Williams to book now! on 02 8586 6205 or email stwilliams@intermedia.com.au * Google Analytics 2021, TheShout averaged 60,497 unique users per month.

Champagne

Champagne and the era of exploration With consumers showing an interest in the finer things in life, Australia’s growing Champagne category presents sparkling opportunities, writes Molly Nicholas.

Since 1859, the Duval-Leroy family has

Champagne tends to also be enjoyed in

“Opportunities exist in our market for

been perfecting the quality of its range

more casual settings now, as living, enjoying

prestige and rosé’s given that Australia

of Champagnes, from the classic Brut

the moment, and enjoying quality time with

consumes much less as a percentage of sales

Reserve to the ultra-premium Femme de

loved ones has become more relevant.

compared to other markets – our market is

Champagne. In that time, the category has

“We have seen new consumers

of course mainly Brut Non-Vintage. This may

experienced evolving consumer trends, but

discovering Champagne and higher

increase in time as consumers here become

above all, Australia has solidified its position

consumption by the glass in on-premise

more educated and experiment more.

in the global Champagne market.

venues. Off-premise, Champagne remains

“Champagne Duval-Leroy continues

With imports continually growing to

as popular as ever for gifting and the interest

to perform well in the Australian market,

the highest volumes seen in many years in

in food pairing and gastronomy has grown

and we are seeing continual growth in all

2022, Australia’s passion for Champagne has

over previous years.

channels on last year. Vintage House Wine &

surged with no signs of slowing down.

“Although Champagne has remained

Spirits has a range of merchandise available

“We are meeting consumers who are

resilient to external pressures over recent

for Champagne Duval-Leroy this festive

more interested, engaged and educated about

years, the continued increased cost of living

season, including premium gift packaging.”

Champagne than ever before and are keen to

may prove challenging for some consumers

Beyond the retail space, Duval-Leroy

learn more,” said Michelle Slater, Senior Brand

to continue to purchase luxury items

continues to raise its profile through a

Manager at Vintage House Wine & Spirits.

including Champagne at the same frequency

partnership with Qantas, marketing the

as previous years.

premium quality and desirability of the

As the trend of premiumisation persists within most categories, the Champagne

“Although it had seemed like prices were

brand’s portfolio and engaging a new

market is among those to benefit from

stabilising, the cost of goods rising right

customer base looking to replicate the

growing consumer desire for luxury and

through the supply chain will inevitably be seen

Duval-Leroy experience at home.

indulgence. Slater explained how Duval-

at a store level with a shift in category pricing.”

“Champagne Duval-Leroy continues

Leroy has identified a shift in the willingness

Despite the economic difficulties faced by

to be the Champagne of choice served on

of consumers to explore new Champagnes.

many, the prevailing sense of exploration in

Qantas flights,” Slater says. “A contract that

“Consumption occasions have perhaps

the Champagne category provides a window

has been in place for several years sees

shifted post pandemic with consumers

of opportunity for retailers. As the weather

Business Class passengers served Duval-

finding more reason to consume Champagne

starts to heat up ahead of the summer

Leroy Brut Reserve NV and First Class

over the traditional celebratory settings.

months, Slater explained how retailers can

passengers enjoy Femme de Champagne

While these traditional settings remain,

target a new market of curious consumers.

on board.”

36 | National Liquor News

■

Sponsored Content

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Luigi Vanzella, General Manager at

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38 | National Liquor News

■

Store Design

Delicious

design

Combination bottle shop, wine bar, and deli, Grana brings a taste of Europe to Brunswick East.

By Caoimhe Hanrahan-Lawrence

Melbourne bottle shop and wine bar Grana has been recognised for its stunning interiors with a nomination for Best Retail Design in the 2023 Eat Drink Design Awards. The Eat Drink Design Awards recognise exemplary design in the hospitality space, and winners will be announced on 29 November. The nomination follows its recent redesign by design firm Ewart Leaf.

Owner Luke Skidmore, part of the team behind Tipo 00 and Osteria Illaria, explained the unique concept behind Grana.

“Grana is a taste of Europe in Australia. It’s a delicatessen, casual wine bar and bottle shop. We make our own cheeses inhouse, have a selection of ethical meats and cheeses/deli items and showcase a unique selection of wines from across the globe,” he said.

Wine is the star of the offering at Grana, with a particular focus on European wines.

“We’ve got a bit of an Italian concept, so people are always drawn to Italian wines. The venue has a European feel,” Skidmore explained.

However, there is still a significant selection of Australian wines, with Grana offering mixed packs such as the Local Legend six-pack stocked with wines from local Victorian boutique wineries.

“I do not know of anybody in the area with as extensive of a wine offering,” Skidmore added.

Skidmore’s journey in the hospitality industry began in Melbourne cafés, and he began to study wine while working in Scotland. At Grana, Skidmore finds that he is especially drawn to energetic and unique wines.

“We enjoy wines which have quite a lot of energy and vibrancy, which draws us to like biodynamics. We tend to find those wines are typically a lot more alive than wines that may see a lot of oak,” he said.

There is a small spirits selection alongside the wines, mainly

40 | National Liquor News

Store Design

consisting of amaro and vermouth, which complements the store’s European focus.

“There’s a lot from Italy, it’s a very traditional Italian aperitif,” said Skidmore.

As well as buying wines, Grana has a selection of wines by the glass that customers can enjoy in-store, along with a small selection of snack plates.

“The high shared table has been really well received as a glass of wine stop,” Skidmore noted.

The star of the deli offering is Whitlow’s Wheels, cheeses that are made and aged inhouse by chef Lucy Whitlow. These cheeses are aged in custom-built humidity and temperature-controlled fridges. Grana also offers a range of tinned fish, Ona filter coffee and pasta supplies.

Ewert Leaf Director Ana Calic spoke to the inspirations behind Grana’s design.

“Grana’s design draws inspiration from the local Brunswick community, with the tonal palette taking cues from the surrounding

“Grana is a taste of Europe in Australia. It’s a

environment. Layered materials and tactile textures create an

delicatessen, casual wine bar and bottle shop. We

atmosphere that is both inviting and intriguing to visitors,” she said.

make our own cheeses inhouse, have a selection of ethical meats and cheeses/deli items and showcase a unique selection of wines from across the globe.”

Luke Skidmore, Owner, Grana

Customers are greeted with a handmade burnished steel door handle upon entry, and enter a store covered with tactile finishes, such as tiled counters, clad timber veneer fridges, and custom metal door handles.

“Each surface has been carefully selected to enhance the customer experience. Hand-drawn signage and decorative metal elements add a personal touch while also serving as practical signage,” said Calic.

“Additionally, the large façade window beautifully frames the activity within the space and creates a flexible display opportunity,” she added.

When asked about his favourite aspect of Grana’s interior, Skidmore found it difficult to choose.

“From the custom fridges that we use for different temperature and humidity control per fridge, to the butcher block bench, it’s a hard toss-up between the two,” he laughed.

The butcher block bench is a central part of the store and serves as a space to lead in-store wine tastings and cooking classes in the evenings.

“The multi-functional central communal table not only serves as a display for retail products but also as a working bench, retail counter, and wine tasting area. Additionally, it anchors the space and creates a natural flow of movement, directing patrons towards the custom designed fridges,” Calic described.

The store has proven popular, with a growing base of loyal customers.

“The customer base really enjoys it. I think it’s quite an unusual concept for Australians, though we grow organically and weekly, which is what we want,” Skidmore enthused.

■

October 2023 | 41

Retail Drinks Australia

Unravelling the relationship between liquor licence density and harm CEO Michael Waters discusses Retail Drinks’ latest research looking for connections between liquor outlet density, accessibility, and harm.

Following on from our recently released Online

2019 where DAA analysed geographical fluctuations

Alcohol Sales and Delivery in Australia report,

on the data set as a whole. Following this, they then

Retail Drinks’ next groundbreaking research project

went back and embarked on a longitudinal analysis

is nearing completion. The new report delves into

to trace changes over time within the period – further

availability theory, and a well-examined question: does

testing the robustness of their methodology. The team

an increase in the availability of alcohol in a particular

now plans to submit its methodology and findings

area result in an increase in alcohol-related harm?

for peer review, inviting scrutiny from other experts

Led by experts Dr. John Henstridge (a past

in the field.

President of the Statistical Society of Australia) and

What does this all mean for the liquor industry? At

Dr. Fiona Evans of Data Analysis Australia (DAA),

its core, the research seeks to unravel the complex web

the research aims to unravel the potential relationship

connecting liquor licence density and the social issues

between liquor outlet density and harm and provide

tied to alcohol consumption. By adopting an improved

insights at a level never understood before.

approach and carefully considering many variables,

The research took cues from previous studies,

DAA aims to provide the most robust analysis of the

probing into each of their methodologies, while

topic ever undertaken, in Australia or internationally.

striving to overcome their limitations. With this

As DAA continues to refine its research and

goal in mind, DAA focused in on NSW, where due

seek feedback from the scientific community, it is

to its size, geographical and licence diversity, and

worth remembering that this study underscores the

the availability of robust data, provided the best

importance of rigorous analysis when examining

conditions for analysis. They then took a geographical

these issues. The methodology adopted offers a vast

approach to the research seeking to understand the

improvement on existing studies, which have given

relationships based on the distance of licensed outlets

inconsistent results and, in some cases, had significant

from a location and harm in that location.

methodological issues.

“At its core, the research seeks to unravel the complex web connecting liquor licence density and the social issues tied to alcohol consumption.”

However, it didn’t stop there as the authors understood

It is hoped that the insights from this

Michael Waters

other factors such as population size, income levels, and

groundbreaking research when complete will

CEO Retail Drinks Australia

shopping patterns can influence outcomes. As such,

help to inform and guide future evidence-based

they further integrated a range of socio-economic and

policymaking, influence industry practices, and

demographic variables. This approach ensured that the

broaden our understanding of the complex,

results were not skewed solely by the number of licensed

multi-faceted interplay between the availability or

outlets in a particular area.

accessibility of alcohol and potential harm to the

The research encompassed data from 2013 to 42 | National Liquor News

communities in which our licensed premises serve.

■

IBA

Dollar Bill’s Gold Teeth shines at the 2023 Australian Independent Beer Awards Independent Brewers Association (IBA) provides a wrap of The Indies 2023.

Australia’s best independent beer for 2023 is Ballarat’s Dollar Bill for its Sour, Fruit & Funk category winner – Gold Teeth.

Although the quality of entries was off the charts this year, the Victorian based brewery’s Gold Teeth stood out from 1,348 beers to take the top gong in this year’s Australian Independent Beer Awards (The Indies).

With the help of 50 stewards, 65 of the best and emerging judges from Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia spent three days tasting and evaluating some of the best quality beers in the industry.

Head Judge, Justin Fox said: “We are blown away this year at the quality of beers entered. There were 229 beers awarded gold, and an incredible 85 per cent of all beers entered received a medal.

Ed and Fiona Noelle from Dollar Bill and Nick Becker from Konvoy Kegs with their winning trophy for Champion Independent Beer.

“This medal tally demonstrates that the standard of

“I look forward to witnessing these new styles

independent beer poured in tap rooms, and packaged

not only naturally flourish, but also progressively

in fridges across Australia, is of an exceptional

evolve as we journey into the future showcasing

quality. Brewers are delivering beers that are absent of

the incredible growth in creativity amongst our

major technical faults and reflective of the promised

Australian brewers.”

style, allowing consumers to repeatedly enjoy their

And it’s not all about the beer. The people who

engagement with independent beer.”

make, sell, and pour the beer are equally as important

“This year we

Overall results include:

so we ensure they are also acknowledged and

celebrated in style,

• Total gold medals 229, silver 454 and bronze 464.

celebrated via our peer nominated awards.

in Surfers Paradise,

• 1,147 medals were awarded in total.

The awards are presented by the Independent

together as an industry

• Entries included 40 bottles, 697 can and 611 keg.

Brewers Association (IBA) and Richard Watkins,

for the first time since

• The spread of Champion Class trophies was relatively

IBA Chair, added: “Both the number of entries

even with Queensland and New South Wales

and medals should be celebrated given some of

2019. The fantastic

awarded five each, closely followed by Victoria with

the challenging circumstances currently facing

four, South Australia at two and Western Australia

the industry. What a way to kick the bad times to

taking home one.

the curb.

• The Pale Ale category stood out this year with 143 entries, Traditional Lager, and Reduced Alcohol with

“Congratulations to all medallists, champions and entrants, you are all winners in our eyes.”

setting, warm night, great company, and gorgeous array of beers was just the best way to celebrate excellence in brewing and to cheer

118 closely followed by Porter/Stout with 113.

Kylie Lethbridge, IBA CEO, said: “This year we

• Modern Pale and Specialty were our gold medal

celebrated in style, in Surfers Paradise, together as an

leaders with 19 and 22 respectively.

industry for the first time since 2019. The fantastic

winners.”

The Independent Beer Awards Advisory Committee

setting, warm night, great company, and gorgeous

Kylie Lethbridge

Chair stated: “The incorporation of seven new beer

array of beers was just the best way to celebrate

styles into our guidelines truly reflects the relentless

excellence in brewing and to cheer on our 2023

CEO Independent Brewers Association

dedication of the Advisory Committee.

award winners.”

on our 2023 award

■

October 2023 | 43

Australian Distillers Association

The National Distilling Institute launches Australian Distillers Association has partnered with the National Food Institute to form the National Distilling Institute, writes ADA CEO Paul McLeay.

It’s been incredible to witness the accelerated growth

(Distilling). This comprehensive program will cover

of the craft distilling sector over the last few years.

all aspects of operating a safe and efficient distillery.

We have now identified more than 600 distilleries

Currently, we have 14 distillers in the process of

spanning all states and territories. This expansion

completing accreditation in Training and Assessment.

was reflected by record attendance of more than 500

This means that industry professionals will be actively

delegates at our annual conference in March, up from just 35 delegates 10 years earlier.

There is, however, a serious side to this expansion.

Distilling is undeniably a dangerous profession. We must ensure that the many small and emerging businesses joining our sector are putting safety first and foremost if we are to have a sustainable distilling industry in this country.

Consequently, safety and training have become key areas of focus for the Australian Distillers Association (ADA). In light of some high profile incidents and reported near misses, the industry has acknowledged that specialised vocational training is essential to ensure the safety of distillers who are routinely handling highly flammable and hazardous materials.

That’s why we have forged a partnership with the National Food Institute, a registered training organisation, to establish the National Distilling Institute. Working in collaboration with other training bodies, the institute will offer a qualification known as Certificate IV in Artisan Fermented Products 44 | National Liquor News

“In light of some high profile incidents and reported near misses, the industry has acknowledged that specialised vocational training is essential to ensure the safety of distillers who are routinely handling highly flammable and hazardous materials.”

Paul McLeay CEO Australian Distillers Association

involved in training and adhering to a nationally recognised standard. This initiative will foster a culture of peer review and learning, and most importantly, peer support. We anticipate opening enrolment for the course by the end of 2023.

This is an important milestone for our industry not only in terms of ensuring its safety, but in setting it up for continued success. As our industry continues to grow, we can learn a lot from the trajectory that Australian wine has followed over the last 40 or so years.

We know that policy settings were crucial to supporting the evolution of Australian wine into an export powerhouse. But so too were the right education and training frameworks, in skilling up Australian winemakers to create products that could stand tall on the world stage.

Australian distillers are already recognised around the world for their distinctive and high quality spirits.

Now, with our renewed commitment to education and training, we can be very confident that the industry is on the cusp of even greater things.

■

Shopper Intelligence

RTDs –

good, great, or so-so?

David Shukri, Australia Client Service Director, Shopper Intelligence, says shopper to heed for better performance for RTDs. An industry leader recently described the

The innovation puzzle

bookmark two other crucial levers for

ready-to-drink (RTD) department to me

So, what else beyond value should be front

brands and retailers in the RTD space.

as “vibrant”.

of mind in RTDs? Innovation is certainly

Firstly, excellent execution earns loyalty

crucial, but it can be a double-edged sword

in RTDs. In other words, if a retailer lands

for the pre-mix department.

pre-mix categories well, shoppers are more

Yes, I thought, in many regards it could be considered the most vibrant part of the off-premise offer. Yet, scratch beneath the

Defined as ‘appealing new ideas,’ it’s

surface and all is not as well as it seems in

the fastest declining factor for pre-mix

the world of the pre-mix.

shoppers since 2021. Yet those same

It means sketchy ranging, haphazard

shoppers continue to yearn for more new

merchandising or up-and-down availability

products (NPD).

won’t just hurt the category; they could be

Shopper satisfaction in the channel fell last year and RTD shoppers were among

likely than average to choose that retailer over others (for all their liquor needs).

those registering growing discontent.

How can you reconcile this apparent

While overall satisfaction in the channel

paradox? Let’s turn our attention briefly to

Secondly, RTD shoppers are open to

hovers at 64 per cent, RTD shoppers find

the youngest cohort of off-premise shoppers,

impulsive experimentation when in-store.

themselves at 62 per cent, making them the

those aged 18-24. They exhibit the lowest

To capitalise on this, clear signposting of

least satisfied group at the department level.

satisfaction levels in the channel and have

NPD is vital. Customers must easily spot and

a particular affinity for pre-mix categories.

be enticed by new offerings, encouraging

Price assurance: a pressing concern

One of their major grievances is

them to explore beyond their usual choices.

First, let’s take a reality check. Despite the

a perception that RTD products lack

The RTD department remains in a period

daily dose of cost-of-living crisis news we

authenticity. They don’t have a story behind

of great growth and fast-paced evolution. And

receive in the media, liquor has not become

them, or at least, not one that is discernible

yet, for every success in life, you can always

a game of price over all else. In fact, price

or resonant with younger shoppers.

ask ‘how could I have done that better?’.

declined slightly in importance across the channel in the year to March.

RTD shoppers say their satisfaction with

damaging the whole store.

So, addressing the innovation challenge

Price assurance and the authenticity

in RTDs means, in part, addressing

factor must be addressed promptly to

questions of product authenticity.

enhance customer satisfaction in pre-mix

prices and offers remained unchanged over

Showcasing and communicating

categories. Balancing operational excellence

the same period. However, our research

credentials on sourcing, flavours or even

with disruption and inspiration is also

reveals a drop of more than five per cent in

production methods can help brands and

critical to win not only immediate sales but

their satisfaction with price assurance..

retailers create a more compelling story.

also long-term customer loyalty.

This raises an urgent flag for the industry.

The RTD shopper may not be as content

Unlocking loyalty and driving impulse purchases

as in 2021, but their demands are clear and

pricing, and failing to recognise and address this concern could be costing the industry.

Rounding this opportunity out, let’s

and go from good to great.

The RTD shoppers crave consistency in

now is a golden moment to heed the signals

■

October 2023 | 45

Strikeforce

Tangible brand experience Stephen Wilson, Category & Insights Manager, Strikeforce, discusses ways to capture new brand loyalists and strengthen existing customer bonds.

According to Australia Post Inside Australian Online

the brand proposition and offer can heavily influence

Shopping 2023, 9.4 million households made an

a shopper’s decision at the point of purchase.

online purchase in 2022 representing 82 per cent of all Australian households.

In addition, 5.6 million households shopped online every month.

In-store sampling amplifies brand engagement and ‘de-risks’ a purchase by allowing shoppers to try before they buy.

These simple initiatives can escalate a sense of

Despite the popularity and convenience of

theatre and excitement when executed by experiential

shopping online, Australians have returned to bricks

specialists. By engaging a knowledgeable experiential

and mortar stores and pre-2020 shopping habits.

partner, the brand experience can be amplified with

This shift in behaviour gifts suppliers and retailers the opportunity to provide a tangible brand experience,

the potential to engage every single shopper who enters the store in a meaningful manner.

capture new brand loyalists and strengthen existing

Experiential partners can provide an end-to-

customer bonds to the brand resulting in increased

end brand solution starting with strategic planning,

share of spend.

concept development, key visual point of sale design,

In-store engagement with brands creates an immersive and tangible experience allowing them to touch, feel smell and sometimes even taste the product before buying.

bringing it all together in-store when engaging shoppers on behalf of brands.

This is particularly pertinent when launching new products that shoppers may have little or no

This multi-sensory experience, which is impossible

knowledge of. Often lack of information about

to recreate in the digital world, is at the core of

product attributes and benefits is a barrier to purchase

why shoppers enjoy bricks and mortar shopping,

so by having a brand ambassador on hand to ‘fill in

particularly if they are in an exploratory mood looking

the blanks’ is extremely advantageous.

for new experiences.

In conclusion, in-store brand exposure is a potent

From an off-premise liquor perspective there are a

tool for suppliers and retailers seeking to engage

number of ways to bring focus brands to the fore and

customers on a deeper level. Through tangible

grab a potential sale.

experiences, personalised interactions, instant

In-store brand exposure is an enabler of creative

gratification, and the creation of lasting impressions,

engagement strategies. A well-positioned, highly

brands can nurture customer loyalty, elevate their

visible off-location display either in a ‘hot spot’ at the

reputation, and drive sales. While the digital landscape

front of the store or disrupting the store journey is a

continues to evolve, the unique advantages of in-store

powerful strategy to encourage trial.

interactions ensure that the power of bricks and

Bright and visible on-shelf ticketing communicating 46 | National Liquor News

mortar retail is far from diminished.

■

“In-store engagement with brands creates an immersive and tangible experience allowing them to touch, feel smell and sometimes even taste the product before buying.”

Stephen Wilson Category & Insights Manager Strikeforce

Wine Australia

Influences on wine packaging trends Angelica Crabb, Senior Analyst, Wine Australia, explores changing wine packaging trends.

New packaging formats for wine are rapidly

also impacting packaging trends. As consumers move

evolving. Wine producers are making packaging

towards moderating their alcohol intake, packaging

decisions and these choices are influenced by many

types that enable this behaviour are increasingly

factors including costs, climate, and consumer demand.

recognised. According to Wine Intelligence, regular

According to the 2023 Wine Business Monthly

wine drinkers in Australia, the United Kingdom, the

Packaging Survey, conducted in the United States,

US, and Canada are showing increased awareness

the average cost of glass has risen by eight per cent in

of certain packaging types outside of the standard

the past year and 43 per cent of all wineries surveyed

750ml bottle, especially in the US where nearly all

indicated that controlling costs was the main driver

other packaging types increased in awareness during

of the packaging strategy. Packaging is also the largest

2022. In Australia the ‘pouch’ container increased the

contributor to the Australian wine sector’s carbon emissions, with a 44 per cent share, according to Wine Australia’s Emissions Reduction Roadmap for the Australian wine sector (Roadmap).

There are two packaging-related initiatives identified in the Roadmap to reduce emissions: transitioning to lightweight bottles (a reduction of 759,545 tonnes of CO2-e) and lower energy glass production (a reduction of 301,823 tonnes of CO2-e).

Lighter glass bottles use less glass in the production process, therefore lowering emissions. They are also lighter to ship, reducing emissions in transport as well.

Lower energy glass production has been modelled at a 35 per cent energy saving, starting in year 2025. The

“Wine producers are making packaging decisions and these choices are influenced by many factors including costs, climate, and consumer demand.”

Angelica Crabb Senior Analyst Wine Australia

most in awareness, but the tetra pak increased the most in purchase.

In all these markets, it is the younger generations of consumers who are more likely to purchase alternative packaging types, while those aged 55 and over are much more likely to stick to the standard bottle size.

While the total volume of off-trade wine sales declined in the year ended March 2023 for all four markets, there were some forms of alternative packaging that grew in each market. In Australia, there was growth in both larger and smaller formats, such as five litre casks and 187ml bottles. 375ml (half bottles) also grew, from a lower base.

Roadmap recognises that switching to other forms of

Wine Australia’s Emissions Reduction Roadmap,

packaging – such as bag in box and canned wine, are

and its associated resources, can be downloaded

also important avenues to consider.

from Wineaustralia.com/emissions-reduction-

Consumer health and wellness movements are

roadmap.

■

October 2023 | 47

Training

Best practice staff training Industry Consultant Peter Hall discusses ways to upskill your staff.

In last month’s article, I prompted questions on induction

this would be better; ‘You’ve got your RSA? Good,

training of new staff and setting store standards. Let’s

let’s look at the following scenario. Tell me how you

follow up with discussing skill gaps, testing staff on skill/

would handle this situation’.

product knowledge gains and handling staff who throw up ‘brick walls’ even at the mention of training.

“Induction should be a mixture of ‘warm and fuzzy’ welcome and ‘cold and hard’ testing and getting this balance right is no easy feat.”

Peter Hall Industry Consultant

48 | National Liquor News

Induction should be a mixture of ‘warm and fuzzy’ welcome and ‘cold and hard’ testing and getting this

I can almost guarantee that at least one staff

balance right is no easy feat. What situation would

member in every retail liquor business in the country

you use to test your new staff member? Well, you

received less than optimal induction. Bold call I know,

would have situations that have happened in-store

and of course there will be exceptions, but think of

on a regular basis, so using RSA as an example:

the practicalities of new staff starting in a job. We’re

• ‘It’s 6pm and four young adults come in. You

already short staffed, time is always of the essence,

satisfactorily check IDs, however one of the group

and with labour costs on the increase we tend not

is showing at least two signs of intoxication;’ or;

to get staff in too early to create ease of training and

• ‘A regular customer is in for their third visit today for

buddy/mentoring.

another two RTDs. However, he has been purchasing

What’s the cost to you in having a poorly trained staff

a higher ABV product today and it’s showing.’

member? That’s the skill gap! Customers see it every

Scenarios are good tests as are mini questionnaires.

single day in variable levels of service, higher wait times

Ten questions on product, pricing, RSA, upcoming

(not all bad as higher wait times can lead to increases in

promos/events etc each month can be set up in a

the average basket size) and poor product knowledge.

questionnaire for all staff. Fill it in to get on next

This latter one is particularly emphasised in the growth

week’s roster. If they cheat and ask someone else, it

of sales of premium products. As a customer, if I’m

doesn’t matter because they found out anyway. Get

spending $80 or more on a bottle of gin, I want to know

staff to read labels and be able to talk about products

about and possibly even discuss the botanicals.

they don’t drink themselves.

We often assume knowledge in a new staff member

This is all well and good, however some staff don’t

only because it makes our job easier. ‘You’ve got your

want to be trained and will often actively avoid your

RSA? Good, let’s move on.’ Wrong on several counts.

efforts. New skills are often perceived as a threat so the

Let’s face it, an RSA is easy to obtain even by someone

warm and fuzzy approach is; ‘Better skills for you means

with no experience and despite training requirements

greater shifts and/or job opportunities later’ and the

there is extremely limited testing of participants

cold and hard answer; ‘This is a minimum requirement

during an RSA course. So, having a certificate is no

to work here and everyone else is complying’. What

guarantee of knowledge, skill or capability. Perhaps

would your approach be? Food for thought.

■

Leasing

Avoiding disputes in commercial leases Marianna Idas, Principal, eLease Lawyers, provides advice on how to avoid leasing disputes.

Avoiding disputes in commercial leases

4. Maintain open communication:

as a tenant. Know what you are entitled to

involves careful planning, effective

Establish a positive working relationship

and what the landlord is responsible for

communication,

under the lease agreement and local laws.

thorough

with the landlord or property manager.

understanding of the terms and conditions

and

a

Regularly communicate about any issues,

outlined in the lease agreement. Here

repairs, or changes you’d like to make to

10. Document property condition:

are some steps that a tenant can take to

the property.

Document the condition of the property

minimise the chances of disputes:

with photographs or a video walkthrough

5. Conduct due diligence:

before moving in. This can help avoid

1. Review and understand the lease agreement:

Before signing the lease, conduct due

disputes over pre-existing damages when

diligence on the property and the landlord.

it’s time to move out.

Make sure that you understand all the terms,

Research the property’s history, previous

conditions, and obligations. Ensure that you

tenants, and reviews. Additionally,

11. Get written approvals:

either read the lease agreement thoroughly

understand the landlord’s reputation and

If you plan to make any modifications

or obtain legal advice from a lawyer who

history with previous tenants.

to the property, obtain written approval

specialises in commercial leases. A good

from the landlord before proceeding.

lawyer can save you more than you spend

6. Comply with lease terms:

This could include signage, renovations,

on them, so it is worthwhile to speak with

Adhere to all terms of the lease, including

or structural changes.

a lawyer and obtain a quote for assistance

rent payments, maintenance responsibilities,

with your lease.

and property usage. Failure to do so can lead

12. Renew lease in advance:

to disputes.

If you plan to renew the lease, start the

2. Negotiate clear terms:

process well in advance to ensure there’s enough time for negotiation and any

clear and precise language in the lease

7. Keep the property wellmaintained:

agreement. Ambiguities in the contract

Properly maintain the property according to

the period when you must renew the lease

can lead to misunderstandings and disputes

the terms of the lease. Regular upkeep can

so, please ensure you document the dates to

down the road.

prevent disputes over issues like property

avoid failure to comply.

During the negotiation process, strive for

changes needed. Your lease will document

damage and repairs.

3. Document everything:

13. Consider legal assistance:

Keep records of all communication

8. Understand rent escalations:

If a dispute does arise, consider seeking legal

with the landlord or property manager,

If the lease includes rent escalations,

advice before taking any action. A lawyer

especially any changes, promises, or

understand how they are calculated and

experienced in commercial leases can

agreements made verbally. Written

when they will occur. This can prevent

provide guidance and help resolve the issue.

communication (emails, letters) is

disputes related to rent increases.

preferred for clarity. If you have a written

By following these steps and maintaining

9. Know your rights and responsibilities:

open lines of communication, tenants

in writing otherwise the lease will override any verbal agreements.

Understand your rights and responsibilities

disputes in commercial lease agreements.

lease, then any amendments must be made

can significantly reduce the likelihood of

■

October 2023 | 49

Circana

‘Me-tailing’ in the moment Circana explores why retail media networks are the key ingredient to reach shoppers when cookies crumble.

Reaching the right audience in a fragmented media landscape with

Australia’s retail media market is expected to reach $1bn by 2025,

pressures on media spend and imminent cookie deprecation means

and not only bring up to $1.2bn in ‘new’ advertising revenue over

marketers must find new ways to target Australians while respecting

the next five years, but also provide the platforms with:

privacy changes.

With third-party data plummeting as cookies crumble and

• Valid measurement of media effectiveness on sales.

• An incremental revenue stream.

the continuing evolution of our data-driven world; marketers are

• The ability to provide partner brands that partner with

being held more accountable than ever for success and delivering

significant levels of data to access and hyper-personalise content

results – not just with vanity metrics like clicks and engagement,

– especially if you offer a loyalty program.

but perpetually trying to understand how these convert into sales.

Research also reveals that nine-in-10 advertisers already use retail

While the true value of first-party data is commensurate with

media advertising campaigns to increase sales, with more than

its coverage, depth and recency creating huge opportunities in

half saying the top opportunity is getting access to first-party data.

technical and creative innovation and to learn about your customers

Australian retail media participation is led by brands in FMCG (53

and save their shopping cart; have you considered using your

per cent), retail (49 per cent), health and beauty (38 per cent), and

own inventory as retail media? Impending data deprecation rules

alcoholic beverages (30 per cent). In fact, as major e-commerce

will impact customer targeting, but the new digital marketplace

players and local retailers develop media offerings to bring further

empowers you to up your data arsenal. And marketers are flocking

disruption to our fragmented media landscape, 31 per cent of

to it.

Australian retail media network investment is already coming from

Six-in-10 marketers say retail media is key to their strategy when third-party cookies are removed.

50 | National Liquor News

new budgets, while the remaining 69 per cent is being reallocated from other budgets like digital advertising and trade retail.

Circana

“Given it is collected with the consumer’s consent, retail media network data is privacy-first and can be deeply personalised providing a very effective advertising platform for marketers in new post-cookie world.”

Diversification is key to growth

$3bn in incremental sales in the 12 months to June

With retail media ad formats ranging from in-store

2022, with over half of these ad-driven orders from

(including in-store music) to digital out-of-home,

new customers.

social, mobile, CTV and audio, the reach potential

So, as cookies phase out, Australian retail media

is significant. US retailer Walgreens reaches more

networks will command more of a migration of

than 97 million customers and patients across 20

marketing spend, which will drive innovation, off-

different digital platforms alone, while food delivery

site demand-side platforms (for example, Cartology

service DoorDash’s self-serve ad solutions give brands

and YouTube) and the rise of the retailer app as the

more flexible options to drive incremental purchases

focal point of the omnichannel customer experience.

through reaching more than 25 million monthly

We also expect a higher return of ad spend, and we

active customers across its US network of more than

have seen a material four times increase for verifiable

75,000 convenience, grocery and retail stores at the

audiences compared to traditional contextual or

point-of-sale. This saw DoorDash drive more than

demographic targeting techniques, which will take online past its Covid ceiling.

Opening a world of new experiences It’s near impossible to make the right decisions fast enough if you’re drowning in data insights. The benefit of retail media network platforms provides significant business intelligence and opportunities for you and your customers. First-party data from retailers drives an effective CPM, which essentially means that while you pay more, it works out more cheaply. For example, if your third-party data has a CPM of $2 and your first-party data has a CPM of $3, but the third-party reach is only accurately targeting half your key customers while your first party is reaching all of them, the real cost of using that thirdparty data is a CPM of $4. This is the hidden value of a retailer’s first-party audience.

But be aware that recent IAB Australia research reveals that while over half of online shoppers say they often read content produced by retailers (58 per cent), they are also somewhat or very concerned about a retailer’s use of data provided via their transactions (55 per cent) so ‘clear communication around the data value exchange to make shoppers more comfortable to provide their data’ is critical. But given it is collected with the consumer’s consent, retail media network data is privacy-first and can be deeply personalised providing a very effective advertising platform for marketers in new post-cookie world.

■

October 2023 | 51

Wiser

What to expect from a hot festive season 2023 Laurie Wespes, CEO of Snooper, Wiser’s crowdsourcing platform, asks will a hot summer 2023 bring us news on shopper behaviour? And examines what we know from last year.

The period spanning from Spring Races

These insights offer a sneak peek into

leading choice in the market. Remarkably,

to New Year traditionally generates the

what might be happening in-store for the

tequila played a significant role in driving

highest liquor sales. but following three

forthcoming year.

this growth2.

sizzling summer . This might be good for

Wine keeps dominating store space, but other categories catch up

Is this trend about to be replicated in Australia?

liquor retailers, who should prepare to cater

Brands are getting better at taking advantage

From a shopper perspective, Australian

to the surging demand for refreshing drinks.

of key selling periods (KSP) to drive sales.

shoppers are more likely to buy liquor for

Manufacturers should be ready too and put

Based on shopper’s preferences and global

Father’s Day and New Year, while beer is a

their best foot forward in-store to capture

trends, Wiser has mapped which categories

top choice for the footy finals3.

consumers’ attention and wallet. As we gear

should be in focus during the lead-up to

From an in-store perspective, beer is

up for the 2023 festive season, let’s look at

summer. Different companies come into the

taking over more space than last year. The

what we can learn from last year’s insights.

spotlight, each with its own role in making

peak was at the spring races when beer took

customers happy.

over almost one-third of all off-locations.

consecutive years of La Niña weather patterns, Australia is gearing up for a 1

In this analysis, we dive into offpremise store activations in 2022 and 2023,

Something intriguing unfolded in the US

While its visibility tapered during the festive

leveraging data from our ‘How to Win

this year, where for the first time, in 2023

season and New Year, beer remained more

During Key Selling Periods’ report series.

spirits have overtaken beer to become the

robust compared to the previous year,

52 | National Liquor News

Wiser

maintaining a share of visibility ranging from 8.5

stage, quadrupling its visibility. Spirits also shine,

per cent to 26 per cent, as opposed to below 10 per

yet BWS allocates three times more visibility to it

cent in 2022. However, we observe the start of a shift

than Liquorland.

in retailer space allocation on spirits subcategories.

Historically, during the festive season, the spirit

Buy parties and smart shoppers

category – along with sparkling wines, of course –

The majority of shoppers indicated they

takes substantial space on store shelves due to the

purchased more alcohol during spring races,

demand for gift-worthy options. Although whiskey

festive season and New Year for hosting and

had been the most prominently displayed spirit

sharing experiences. Notably, the motivations

sub-category, by the end of 2022, we witnessed the

behind these purchases varied.

ascent of tequila and soju featured prominently in store displays.

nearly half of shoppers, as it offers great value

Another US trend is the growth of ready-to-

for money, a crucial factor for sharing occasions.

drink (RTD) premixes, with a remarkable 102 per

As one respondent aptly said, “Bars are often too

cent increase over the past two years4. The tendency

packed, we often organise to watch the races at one

is also evident in Australia and has translated to

of our friends’ places. Therefore, getting good value

in-store visibility, with RTDs now occupying a

for your money is the most important. It’s always

notable share of approximately 10 per cent of in-

BYO, but you don’t want to show up with a too little

store displays throughout the entire summer season.

amount of alcohol, neither spend too much on it”.

However, no matter what, wine manufacturers continued to dominate the visibility landscape, mirroring trends from the previous year, with an average of half of off-locations dedicated to this category.

Retailers’ unique approaches Most retailers increase the number of off-location displays during KSPs but do it differently. Like the previous year, BWS maintained an average of five times more display stands than Liquorland.

Although both retailers prioritise their own displays stands, CUB and Diageo prove that with the right

“Large-value packaging consistently influences nearly half of shoppers, as it offers great value for money, a crucial factor for sharing occasions.”

activation it’s possible to get manufacturer-branded

Laurie Wespes

their assortment to fit the occasion. During the

CEO Snooper

Large-value packaging consistently influences

displays in-store.

In terms of assortment, stores adopt varying strategies. As usual, Liquorland is favouring wine, displaying it heavily at gondola ends. This domination led to almost no space for spirits and RTDs. However, BWS showed a more balanced approach – wine remains the most visible category, but spirits and RTDs get up to a quarter of offlocation space.

Nevertheless, both major retailers try to adjust spring races, retailers allocated almost one-third of off-location space to beer. As the festive season and New Year approach, sparkling wine takes centre

Similar to footy finals, shoppers love to see their favourites being featured on promotions/ pack designs. However, during the festive season and New Year, other factors come into play. More than half of respondents admitted that a limitededition pack plays a significant role when choosing alcohol for New Year as it might be used as a gift.

Big and colourful in-store theatre and promos are vital in attracting shoppers’ attention during the festive season.

In general, shoppers want their products to look appealing and attractive, paired with affordable prices. Let’s see if a hot summer 2023 will bring us something new in shopper behaviour. Our ‘Share of Visibility’ report will give you insights around share of off-location space during key selling periods. It captures share of off-location space (gondola end and display) on a monthly basis in national accounts as well as shopper’s preferences towards in-store displays and maps category purchase drivers.

■

Sources: Australian Bureau of Meteology, 15 August 2023 / (http://www.bom.

1

gov.au/climate/enso/#:~:text=A%20La%20Ni%C3%B1a%20event%20 often,%2C%202010%2C%202020%2C%202022) CNBC (https://www.cnbc.com/2023/06/16/liquor-industry-trends-as-

2

spirits-take-market-share-from-beer.html) Wiser Shopper Insights KSP report, 2023

3

4

NIQ (https://nielseniq.com/global/en/insights/education/2023/what-

the-102-ready-to-drink-alcohol-beverage-segment-growth-is-all-about/)

October 2023 | 53

Summer Aperitivo

Aperitivo moments Creating the perfect aperitivo moments involves more than just the beverages, it’s about the entire experience.

Perfecting aperitivo moments “Aperitivo is a state of mind. However, if you look at it romantically the perfect elements for aperitivo are usually a summer afternoon, friends, a little snack, great music, and the perfect drink in hand.”

Kayla Grigoriou, Brand Ambassador, Grey Goose “First and foremost, gather your favourite people.

Whether it’s friends, family, or a mix of both, the right company sets the vibe. You’ll want some aperitif spirits

Manly Spirits Zesty Spritz

on hand. Think vermouth, amaro, and maybe even a bottle of your preferred gin or liqueur. Think Manly

Manly Spirits’ new Zesty Limoncello Spritz RTD is the ultimate sip

Spirits Lilly Pilly Pink Gin in a delicious negroni twist or

of sunshine. Bursting with vibrant flavours, this spritz combines

our Limoncello for that citrus blast.”

the tangy zest of freshly squeezed lemons with the exotic allure

Vanessa Wilton, Co-founder, Manly Spirits Co.

of Australian native botanicals Lemon Aspen and Lemon Myrtle.

Sparkling soda water adds a playful effervescence. Get ready to

“Good friends are the base. The set up (comfort, light,

embark on a wild flavour adventure.

music) is second. Sunsets are always winners. And food

Tasting notes:

bottle of Normandy cider, cheese and crackers. Or the

A pure citrus hit on the nose with a mild sweetness and tangy zip on the palate coupled with the balance of freshness and sherbet notes.

54 | National Liquor News

and drinks come third. You can keep it simple, with a special occasion Apero of Champagne and oysters, with a side of bread and butter and sparkling water.”

Many Conde, State Sales Manager, Cerbaco

Summer Aperitivo

Amaro Montenegro Amaro Montenegro, an iconic Italian herbal liqueur, is a timeless testament to the art of crafting exquisite flavours. Its captivating complexity unfolds with each sip, offering a harmonious blend of 40 botanicals, including aromatic herbs, spices, and bitter orange peel.

The result is a bittersweet masterpiece, striking a perfect balance

Sunny Arvo Organic Aperitivo Hailing from Heldeberg, Victoria, Sunny Arvo Organic is a superb Australian aperitif. Daring and bittersweet, it’s bursting with a blend of citrus, rosella, lemon myrtle and a bouquet of aromatic spices. Perfect for a sunny arvo, on the rocks or in your favourite spritz.

between sweetness and herbal depth. Amaro Montenegro’s velvety texture and lingering finish make it a

Current aperitivo trends “With the world looking at lower-ABV drinking, aperitivo is becoming more and more popular. People are starting to play around with different spirits, liqueurs, fruits, and mixers. Bartenders are experimenting and riffing on classics and in Australia looking at using Australian botanicals and produce.”

– Kayla Grigoriou, Brand Ambassador, Grey Goose

sophisticated digestif, best enjoyed

Much like the craft cocktail

straight, over ice, or as a versatile

movement, there has been

cocktail ingredient. This liqueur has

a surge in interest in craft

been a symbol of Italian craftsmanship

aperitivos. This includes small

since 1885, inviting discerning palates

batch vermouths, amaro, and

to savour its timeless elegance and

other aperitif spirits, often

rich heritage.

produced by independent, artisanal producers like us,

Pampelle Pampelle is a perfectly balanced bittersweet blend of organic ruby red grapefruit, citrus and

Manly Spirits.” – Vanessa Wilton, Co-founder, Manly Spirits Co.

botanicals. It is the perfect trade-up in the

“Vermouth is growing in

spritz/aperitif occasion meeting consumers’

popularity with consumers and

need for sophisticated refreshment and flavour

the trade due to its unique

experimentation, while delivering a better-for-

flavour, historical significance

you drinking experience

and versatility in cocktails

Pampelle is the world’s first grapefruit

and refreshing build drinks (ie

aperitif. Crafted with natural ingredients;

with soda or tonic). Branca

organic grapefruits handpicked in Corsica

Fratelli has a great portfolio of

France, infused with Yuzu and citrus peels,

vermouths that are perfectly

and then blended with botanicals to create a

segmented to suit consumer

flavourful aperitif.

and bartender need states.

Pampelle is 15 per cent ABV making it a low

From the best of the best

ABV choice for consumers looking for a delicious

in Antica to the point of

but sensible option. ​

difference through Punt e Mes

It is an impressively versatile liquid that works perfectly as a key ingredient in many

to the premium, quality range

classic serves. It elevates spritzes, negronis, margaritas or is perfect in a glass of rose

of the Carpano vermouths.”

over ice. ​

– Tanya Mah, Head of

The Pampelle Spritz or Pampelle Tonic are a refreshing signature serve for both the on-trade

Marketing, Amber Beverage

or at home. The great taste and mixability of Pampelle combined with a simple mixer gives

Australia

consumers a new way to enjoy Pampelle that’s easy to make and easy to enjoy.

October 2023 | 55

Summer Aperitivo

Key messages to retailers “Select Aperitivo boasts a refreshing and vibrant profile that strikes a harmonious balance, highlighting bittersweet, citrusy, and tropical notes.

Crafted with versatility in mind, Select is the perfect choice to savour on its own or alongside a meal, making it a versatile option suitable for any occasion.” – Elle Ayroso, Brand Manager, Spirits Platform “In-store it is important to have the aperitives close to each other: Vermouth, Absinthe and Pastis, Amari and Quinaquina all come from the same family, and belong next to each other.

Ask your suppliers for support,

Select Aperitivo

crack open a bottle and mix it up

Select Aperitivo is an Italian bitter

in glasses with a bit of tonic: it

renowned for its distinctive and

brings some sunshine inside the

captivating flavour profile of citrusy,

store.” – Manu Conde, State

herbal, and tropical notes. Perfectly

Sales Manager, Cerbaco

balanced, Select Aperitivo is a versatile companion for aperitivo rituals and

“Most consumers remain

cocktail creations, elevating gatherings

unaware of the vermouth

and setting the stage for delightful

category beyond mainstream

social connections. It embodies the

brands such as Martini.

essence of Italian aperitivo culture,

Opportunity to trade up, educate

inviting enthusiasts to savour life’s

and increase trial on premium+

simple, pleasurable moments.

options through reinvented classics or vermouth over ice as a refreshing alternative to table wine.” – Tanya Mah, Head of Marketing, Amber Beverage Australia “Aperitivo is easy, quick, and simple. It is the ultimate at home style of drink and perfect for friends get together and parties.”

– Kayla Grigoriou, Brand Ambassador, Grey Goose

56 | National Liquor News

Økar Tropic Crafted from a blend of Gewurztraminer and Moscato, fortified with unused spirit from the distillery and aromatised with oranges and rare native tamarind to create a smashable, tropical sundowner.

Your next spritz just called – it’s as simple as a little Tropic and some sparkling wine. Mix with a bit of soda and passionfruit syrup for a low-alcohol option that’ll keep you going all day.

Limoncello

ZESTY SPRITZ

NATIVE BOTANICALS & SODA

Effervescent Summer in a Bottle.

Contact: sales@manlyspirits.com.au | manlyspirits.com.au

RTD

A

thirst

for convenience As the weather starts to heat up, Molly Nicholas explores which trends will drive the RTD category this summer and the ways in which retailers can capitalise on its success.

In the last five years, the RTD category has experienced

“A sign that RTD is having its moment is that

significant growth and now represents a large chunk of

big name players in beverage like Asahi and Beam

alcohol sales in Australia. As consumers increasingly

Suntory are re-investing big in the game.”

seek convenience, RTDs have captured the attention of global giants and independent producers, catering

Sipping on success

to a wide array of consumer preferences and making

As the category continues to evolve, producers are

them a go-to choice for many.

uncovering endless possibilities when it comes to

“The RTD market is thriving on diversity.

On one end,

“The RTD category continues to grow, fuelled by an

new formats and flavours. Having sold more than 4.5

ever-increasing range of both known and new brands

million cans worth more than $19 million, Hard Fizz

there’s a focus

offering a convenient drink, for the most part in a

is Australia’s highest ranked independently owned

330ml can, at around four per cent ABV,” said Tom

alcoholic seltzer by value, and a frontrunner in the

on health and

Dusseldorp, Chief Marketing Officer at Australian

RTD space. CEO Wade Tiller spoke about the ever-

Vintage Limited (AVL).

changing landscape of the RTD category.

“The category spans spirits, cocktails, and more

“There is a lot of growth and excitement in the

recently wine-based drinks, loved for their delivery

RTD category in a lot of different ways. Making up the

of refreshment, convenience and taste.”

RTD category you have seltzers for the third summer,

Matt Sanger, Founder and Managing Director of independent canned cocktail maker Curatif, has been in the market for four years and watched the category go from strength to strength.

wellness with low-calorie, no sugar options.

On the other,

which has consolidated and has strong brands which

consumers are

are travelling well.

looking for bold

“You have your high ABV light RTDs through big brands like Suntory, which has really revitalised and

flavours and

“Current research shows that Australians’

brought a lot of innovation to that space. You then have

higher ABV.”

consumption of alcohol has been on the rise in general.

brands like Billson’s, which has released nostalgic flavours

Vanessa Wilton,

RTDs are a big part of that spike, with significant

and injected a heap more excitement and growth.”

Co-founder and Creative Director, Manly Spirits

growth over the last few years, to the point we’re now experiencing record highs in the category.

58 | National Liquor News

As customer needs evolve, Australian and international brands compete to bring new innovations

RTD

to market and diversify the RTD offering. Vanessa Wilton, CoFounder and Creative Director at Manly Spirits, spoke about the vast spectrum of consumer demands.

“The RTD market is thriving on diversity. On one end, there’s a focus on health and wellness with low-calorie, no sugar options. On the other, consumers are looking for bold flavours and higher ABV. Sustainability is a key consideration in packaging choices, and flavours with unique twists, possibly borrowed from non-alcoholic categories, are gaining traction.”

Ampersand Projects, best known for Vodka Soda &, exploded into the category in 2018 and has since built its reputation as a consumer-inspired innovator. Alex Bottomley, Director of Ampersand Projects, explained how staying ahead of trends offers a competitive edge.

“We have been lucky to establish ourselves over the last five years as a brand that people recognise, off the back of our iconic ‘&’ symbol and trust due to our track record of bringing innovative products to market.

“This brand strength has made it easier for us to branch out into other categories, such as gin, tequila, ginger beer, and fullstrength spirits. The latest foray into whisky is one of the most exciting new product launches we have ever had, because the dark spirit RTD category is huge and full of big global competitors.

“We are excited to be challenging the status quo and bringing out products that are low in sugar and calories, but

“Merchandising RTDs in a mini-fridge near the cash register makes them a grab-and-go product just like a chocolate bar at the supermarket.”

Matt Sanger, Founder and Managing Director, Curatif

easy drinking and big on refreshment, all from a locally owned Australian company punching above its weight.

“We will be supporting retailers with plenty of free merch and sales driving tools such as GWP’s to help create excitement within their stores, as well as bringing unique and innovative products to market that drive foot traffic within stores.”

Another Australian brand pushing boundaries is Four Pillars, whose latest release of Navy Strength Gin and Ginger aims to strike a chord with cocktail fans. Modelled on the Ginger Mule cocktail, a gin-based adaptation of the popular Moscow Mule, Co-Founder and Distiller Cameron Mackenzie combined the award-winning Navy Strength Gin with a bespoke ginger beer to produce the new gin in a tin at 6.5 per cent.

“Australia has always been a really strong RTD market, and it absolutely remains in growth,” says Mackenzie. “Gin RTDs are behind the overall category, but within this Four Pillars are the number one growth driver and we hope to keep pushing it forward.

“Navy Strength Gin and Ginger was actually the very first RTD we made, even though it is the fourth one we’ve released. […]

Because Navy Strength Gin is higher in alcohol, it holds more flavour which makes it the perfect gin for an RTD that requires a decent amount of mixer and can dilute the flavour of the spirit.

October 2023 | 59

RTD

Gee Up backs independent retailers With the surge of celebrity and influencerbacked products dominating the liquor industry in recent years, independent retailers can often be overlooked. In a commitment to supporting small business over corporate conglomerates, influencers Troy Candy and Adrian Portelli have joined forces to make waves in independent stores

“Gin RTDs are behind the overall category, but within this Four Pillars are the number one growth driver and we hope to keep pushing it forward.”

Cameron Mackenzie, Distiller, Four Pillars

across the country.

With a market strategy that focuses on independent bottle shops, Gee Up is an Australian-made fruity RTD backed by the team at 80 Proof, who are known for their viral fame with the West Kitty & Sour Puss range in 2020.

Carefully curating an Australian launch tour,

“The interest in higher ABV drinks has increased massively over the last few years, so this summer seemed like the perfect time to release this drink.”

In a trend that has emerged over the last two years RTDs are now experiencing greater diversity of alcohol content, as opposed to the more traditional range of three to five per cent, with higher ABV products currently driving sales across the category.

the Gee Up team witnessed an overwhelming response with hundreds of punters flooding bottle shops to get their hands on a slab of Gee Up, selling the product out in minutes.

“You might wonder what sets this brand apart from other influencer-backed products,” said

“While the better for you movement is an important driver of choice for

Shane Barrington, Director, 80 Proof. “Well, quite

RTDs, we’re noticing a move towards the desire for more intensity of flavour

a lot. Gee Up offers a better-for-you vodka RTD

and a fuller mouthfeel,” said Dusseldorp. “Some producers are increasing ABV

that challenges the traditional notion that colourful

to around six per cent to deliver greater flavour intensity, but with Tempus One,

drinks are only for a female audience.

our new wine spritzer range, we are naturally big on taste while maintaining one standard drink.”

Tiller added: “I think retailers should be conscious of that lighter style, higher

“Troy, who openly admits to being a beer hater, coined the term ‘fruit beers’ in 2018 to encourage Australian men to explore more friendly and tastier

ABV RTD as that’s really what the consumer wants, and it’s up to retailers to

drink options. Despite the effort, Troy still faced

make sure they have the right offerings.”

challenges in his campaign to switch the cynicism of colourful drinks to a male audience. That’s when

Cocktail in a can

he and his billionaire friend Adrian Portelli decided

The RTD cocktail category has existed for many years, but the emergence of

to create Australia’s first male-leaning fruit RTD,

new independent brands has sparked a shift towards high quality cocktail RTDs.

Gee Up.”

Contemporary RTD styles are appealing to newer and curious shoppers, with RTD

As Gee Up continues to fly off the shelves in

cocktails appearing in a spectrum of formats, from single serve cans to larger bottles.

independent stores across the country, the boy’s

Striking a balance between convenience and quality, award-winning distillery

credit much of the product’s early success to their

Ester Spirits recreates classic cocktails of old with a flavourful twist, reinventing the

unique audience engagement. Candy and Portelli

at-home experience. With an RTD range that totals three cocktails, in addition to

plan to remain actively involved, showing up at

Ester’s two core gins, Co-founder and Creative Director Corinna Kovner explained

indies and events throughout the country to keep

why the RTD cocktail segment appeals to a wide cross-section of drinkers.

the momentum going.

“There’s been a definite uptake in the RTD cocktail space, and we’ve seen

“This refreshing outlook on influencer-backed

this steadily increasing since 2020. With the advent of Covid, home consumers

alcohol products in 2023 promises to make a

were looking for a bar quality experience at home, and this opened the door for

lasting impact on the independent industry,”

brands like Ester Spirits.

said Barrington.

60 | National Liquor News

NEW LOOK - SAME H E R I TAG E TA ST E

RTD

“We will be supporting retailers with plenty of free merch and sales driving tools such as GWP’s to help create excitement within their stores, as well as bringing unique and innovative products to market that drive foot traffic within stores.”

Alex Bottomley, Director, Ampersand Projects

“Obviously the growth of seltzer style drinks is huge, especially among younger consumers, but we have seen a really strong uptake of our pre-made spirit-based cocktails such as Bees Knees, Mandarin Gimlet and Negroni, modern interpretations of the classic gin cocktails we love.

“We personally noticed when we first launched a huge dichotomy between a drinker who is at ease making a martini, vs a gin drinker who is too terrified to venture beyond making a G&T. “RTD cocktails give a more discerning customer the thrill and excitement of being able to have a more elevated experience than the standard seltzer. Consumers are looking for an elevated experience, but familiarity is still key. The classics reimagined with whimsical and exotic ingredients, that tell a story of its origin, offer something unique but allow consumers to feel at ease with the drinks they know and recognise.”

As craft distillers begin to navigate the RTD space, Sanger explained how the rise in independents releasing premixed products to complement their core ranges has uncovered a sense of sophistication in the category.

“Craft spirits makers, including local labels are helping everyone to drink better […] and this has helped savvy customers and neat spirits aficionados to realise that RTD no longer has to mean cheap spirit plus sugary soft drink mixer.

“You can finally find real, recognisable ingredients inside them. You can have an authentically frothy Sour or Espresso Martini and an expertly balanced Negroni in an instant. The category has undergone its premiumisation phase, consumers have now accepted that ‘hey, this cocktail in a can is actually pretty bloody tasty, crack me open another’, and thank the libation gods for that.”

Beach to backyard RTDs have filled a crucial gap in the market, providing a convenient option for consumers to enjoy on the go and making them especially marketable in the summer months. In a season that is synonymous with outdoor gatherings and barbecues, retailers can capitalise on consumer desire for a light, convenient refreshment by having seasonal flavour combinations well-chilled and readily available.

“By their very nature, RTDs are the ultimate carefree summer drink due to their utter convenience,” said Sanger. “Within the category, some RTDs are tailored for summer more than others. Smaller format cans are quicker to chill, which means they’re an easy sell.

“Merchandising RTDs in a mini-fridge near the cash register makes them a graband-go product just like a chocolate bar at the supermarket.”

62 | National Liquor News

LIKE WINE, BUT SPRITZER.

RTD

“While the better for you movement is an important driver of choice for RTDs, we’re noticing a move towards the desire for more intensity of flavour and a fuller mouthfeel.”

Tom Dusseldorp, Chief Marketing Officer, Australian Vintage Limited

“It provides a challenge for anyone operating in a retail environment, because there is only so much space. Seasonally adjusting your range is something to think about, rationalising your range and considering how quickly you can move with the trends.

It’s not easy for retailers, but it also presents the opportunity to seize the new and exciting brands that are going to exist this summer.”

While Wilton agrees that shelf space is restrictive and often imposes on the freedom to experiment with new brands, having some variety in your stock is the best way to cater to a growing audience.

“It’s all about balance. From sweet and trendy for the newbies, to bold and adventurous for the daredevils, and timeless classics With so many new trends steering the market, summer provides the perfect opportunity for experimenting and trying new products.

At this time of year fruity flavours are especially favourable.

for the traditionalists. Pack it all – cans, bottles, pouches – to suit every occasion.

“Premium or classic? Educate about the differences, from

As Wilton explains: “Summer’s calling for RTDs with flavours that

ingredients to production methods, and let them pick. Segmentation

scream sunshine. Citrus zing, tropical tang and refreshing herbs are

on the shelf, distinguishing between premium and classic RTDs,

the order of the day. Seasonal flavours and limited editions, especially

can help consumers find products that align with their preferences

those from local brands, are anticipated to be in high demand.

and budget.

“Keep an eye on the rapid evolution of flavour preferences – it’s

“Special promotions and bundles are the secret sauce to getting

akin to the pace of fast fashion. The rise of Aperol, particularly

those RTDs flying off the shelves. Coolers and fridges are the stage

in spritzes, is a noteworthy trend pulling the fun spritz segment.

for RTD stardom – keep ‘em chilled and ready for action.”

Light, refreshing spritz are predicted to be the stars of the summer.

With a large slice of the market looking for experimental flavours

Local brands like Manly Spirits are bringing the heat with our new

and variety, retailers can benefit from the growing popularity of the

Limoncello Zesty Spritz that will be a major rival for some of the

pack format. Multipacks not only allow retailers to consolidate your

big boys.”

offering and save shelf space, but they also offer consumers variety.

“Mixed variety 10-packs are something we have ramped up

Retailers’ dilemma

production and support on,” said Tiller. “The consumer wants more

In a category that is so diverse, many retailers are facing the difficulty of

variety than ever, across just about every category, and that mixed-10

choosing which products to stock with limited shelf space. While high

shoppable format takes only one space but allows the consumer to

profile product lines from the likes of Hard Fizz and Wild Turkey are

taste across the flavours, we’re rationalising that for retailers and

guaranteed to sell, fresh products and innovations are also attracting

helping them with space.”

attention and recruiting a broader demographic of consumers.

“The challenge facing a lot of retailers, is ‘which RTDs do I put

Wilton added: “The pack format is your playground – no set rules, just opportunities. Packs of four, six, 10, 12, 24... take your pick.”

in?’,” said Tiller. “There’s a lot of noise, a lot of innovation, and I

The soaring popularity of Australia’s RTD category presents both

don’t think that’s going to slow down. Trends move fast, so I think

challenges and opportunities for retailers as we approach the summer

retailers need to expect continued innovation, it will probably feel

months. While the desire for convenience prevails, retailers who

overwhelming but growth in the category is coming more than ever

embrace the fluctuating trends and keep their shelves stocked with

from things that didn’t exist two or three years ago.

seasonal variations will make the most of this flourishing market.

64 | National Liquor News

■

Tasmanian Drinks

A state of quality The spotlight is on Tasmania at the moment, as the isle that has it all – premium quality drinks, a growing reputation, and a promising future.

It might be geographically at the bottom of

Points of difference

the apple trees grow,” said Pat Garnham,

Australia, but Tasmania is certainly soaring

“Tasmania is such a unique offering, that is

Senior Marketing Manager for the brand.

towards the top of our country’s liquor

distinctively different to the rest of Australia

In the wine category, Brown Family Wine

industry right now.

and the world,” says Peter Dillon, Chief

Group (BFWG) sees much uniqueness

Winemaker at Handpicked Wines.

for the state, despite its size. The group’s

In the past few months alone, the state’s drinks industry has been in the spotlight

He’s absolutely right – Tasmanian

portfolio features vineyards in two different

often with big news in all sectors. For

producers across all categories speak about

growing areas, which create completely

example, with the changing hands of the

how the unique climate, soil, air and general

different, yet equally amazing wines.

iconic Tasmanian House of Arras brand

environment give each drink a certain

(from Accolade to Handpicked Wines), or

special quality.

Jansz Winemaker and Vigneron, Jennifer Doyle, noted these unique qualities also

the acquisition of retailer Carwyn Cellars by

For Willie Smith’s, that quality is a

create challenges, with exciting end results.

independent Tasmanian brewer Fox Friday.

connection to the land and its fruits that

“The whims and vagaries of the

It’s an exciting time, as eyes continue to be

have aptly seen Tasmania dubbed, ‘The

Tasmanian climate render challenges to the

opened to what our lone island state can do.

Apple Isle’.

winegrower and grape yields are consistently

As Kathleen Davies, Founder of Nip of

“It’s a unique connection that apple cider

curtailed. Yet the demanding nature of the

Courage, said: “Everyone has a soft spot for

has to this region, and part of what makes it

environment is also conducive to incredible

Tasmania. It is a beautiful island with lots to

so special. At Willie Smith’s, our connection

intensity of flavour – the adage of ‘good

offer in terms of tourism, the arts, the food

to the land comes from making our cider on

things come in small packages’ resonates

scene and most importantly, quality drinks.”

the farm, just a few steps away from where

distinctly,” Doyle said.

66 | National Liquor News

Tasmanian Drinks

A growing reputation Regardless of some of its humble beginnings, Tasmania’s drinks industry has made a great impact on the entire country, especially in the world of spirits, according to Tycho Hugh, Customer Engagement and Marketing Manager at Hellyers Road Distillery.

“Tasmania is where modern Australian distilling all started, and Tassie boasts the highest number of whisky distilleries of any Australian state or territory,” Hugh said.

“New distilleries are coming online every year, and there’s an undeniable vibrancy as new hands bring new ideas and approaches to distilling, creating innovative and unconventional methods and techniques that keeps the industry exciting. However, the Tasmanian whisky industry has managed to do something quite difficult: marrying a reputation for reliable quality with a reputation for experimentation.”

Davies has watched this hard-earned reputation of the Tasmanian spirits industry develop while stocking a treasure trove of Tassie tipples in the NOC Wholesale service.

“Spirit producers from Tasmania have banded together and worked closely with the local Tasmanian government and tourism boards to help elevate their Devil’s Corner Cellar Door

presence in the Australian distilling scene both

October 2023 | 67

Tasmanian Drinks

nationally and internationally with an emphasis on terroir. Tasmanian producers have done extremely well to build ‘Tasmanian’ brand recognition through this strategy to market their unique region of Australia,” Davies said.

Another factor that has helped Tasmania develop such an excellent reputation in the drinks space is its expansion and accolades.

For example, according to Garnham: “Tasmanian produce equals quality in the consumers’ collective minds. The Tassie drinks industry has expanded into different categories, and this reputation has carried across seamlessly.”

BFWG’s PR and Communications Manager, Amy Van Bekkum, added: “We are seeing continued success from Tasmania on the wine show circuit across all Tasmanian

Retailing tips and tidbits These top tips provided by the producers in this story can help you bring the essence of Tasmania into your store, wherever it is.

• Immersive tastings with POS and video assets help tell the Tasmanian story – Pat Garnham, Willie Smith’s • Dedicated and elevated tasting

wineries and our own.”

experiences, and cross-branded

In the crystal ball

Devil’s Corner x Blundstone) bring the

With the spotlight on and the reputation growing, the future of Tasmania’s drinks industry is intriguing.

Doyle said now is an exciting time for Tasmanian drinks, due to its “conscious coming of age” of recent years that has created “a privileged yet highly approachable niche”.

Within this niche, Tom Wallace, Winemaker at BFWG, said we are bound to see

Tasmania-centric promotions (like state to life – Amy Van Bekkum, BFWG • Describe the uniqueness of the regions, to show the translation into graceful and versatile drinks – Peter Dillon, Handpicked Wines

great things: “As vine age increases and we continue to understand our vineyards I

• Visuals can inspire consumers (like the

only see quality increasing we are starting to see new vineyards around the state but

ones on the Jansz Premium gift boxes

we are always going to be a small player on the Australian and world stage so demand

in collaboration with artist Daniel

should remain strong.”

Also growing up are stocks of maturing whisky (as well as other spirits), and Hugh

Gray-Barnett) – Jennifer Doyle, Jansz Tasmania

anticipates the future holds more consistent releases of Tasmanian whisky with solid

• Showcasing different categories of

age statements, including Hellyers Road’s latest milestone release, which he described

Tasmanian drinks within the one tasting

as “Australia’s oldest official single cask release”.

helps customers explore – Tycho Hugh,

Tasmania is no stranger to being at the forefront of innovation and new opportunity

Hellyers Road

within the Australian drinks market, and this is only set to increase for the future.

• Tasmanian tourism is booming so it’s

Using Willie Smith’s as an example, Garnham said: “Following consumer trends is key

important to stock up and make sure

for us to lead the industry as a craft cider producer. It’s why we shifted our packaged

you carry at least five or six Tasmanian

product to cans a few years ago, why we’ve developed a non-alcoholic cider, and why

SKUs in each category – Kathleen

we are championing our organic certification and leaning into low sugar expressions

Davies, Nip of Courage

all through the lens of the ‘better for you’ movement.”

68 | National Liquor News

IT’S REAL TASSIE CIDER, MADE ON THE FARM.

At Willie’s, we look after mother nature, and she looks after flavour.

We’re the original - Australia’s first certified organic cidery, and we craft Australia’s best cider* from 100% organic Tassie apples.

CIDER AWAR

D

U

CC

OD

TS

UC E

MOS

R

2022 •

• AUSTR

IA N

S•

AL

Made on the farm, we let nature do the hard work with honest fruit flavours coming straight from the orchard.

ESS

F U L L A RGE R

PR

www.williesmiths.com.a www.williesmiths.com.au u Drink responsibly.

*Australian Cider Awards 2022: Best in Show, Most Successful Larger Producer.

Tasmanian Drinks

As it powers ahead, Tasmania is also futureproofing its drinks industry, being at the forefront of sustainable wine practices - Van Bekkum noted that BFWG was already placing great importance on this.

The excitement and buzz of a mature, strongfooted, and innovative industry in the future is partly behind Handpicked Wines’ deal to expand its Tasmanian portfolio with House of Arras.

“We see the future of Tasmania as being extremely exciting. Our feeling is that as the international wine markets further discover what Tasmania can do, it will continue to go from strength to strength,” Dillon said.

For retailers, what is perhaps most exciting about the journey of Tasmanian drinks is the opportunity that can be found when you support your local producers.

Davies said: “I personally love that local businesses in Tasmania have a strong loyalty to ranging local Tasmanian distilleries now. It was never always like this when we started our distribution business back in 2013.”

70 | National Liquor News

■

Named after a rugged patch in nearby waters, our approach to wine is similar to that of the intrepid sailors who dared to cross it: bold yet humble.

Fearless yet considered. Born and bred on the East Coast of Tasmania, out here we hold

Sparkling New Look, same Premium Tas te

a special kind of adventurous spirit… never fighting against the elements, but rather, knowing when to lean into them. It’s here – on this unforgiving stretch of coastline – that something truly special is made. In growing our grapes where the vines meet the sea, each Devil’s Corner wine bears the mark of our home.

A pale, straw-coloured sparkling wine with medium bead and good persistence. The emphasis is on the bright and lively aromas of ripe new season apples and a citrus fruit lift. This sparkling is lively and fresh in the mouth with a good persistence of flavour and a finish that is dry and refreshing, ready to enjoy now.

@devilscornerwine DEVILScorner.com.au

Rosé

Think pink With the weather warming up, it’s time to put on our rosé-coloured glasses.

Caoimhe Hanrahan-Lawrence looks into our favourite pink drink.

It’s no secret that rosé has been a rising star

“Australians are more likely to catch up

in the wine world, attracting consumers

and socialise with family and friends during

across the span of gender, age, and flavour

the warmer months, which is reflected in

preference, with Circana June 2023 data

the uptake in rosé consumption, with 38

indicating that rosé is the second largest

per cent of drinkers choosing the varietal

growing category after Prosecco. The

for casual drinks as well as entertaining at

popularity of rosé has even had a flow on

homes,” she explained.

effect to other categories, according to

Even so, Redin noted that consumers

Katherine Candy, National Wine Specialist

are increasingly choosing to drink rosé

at Pernod Ricard Winemakers.

year-round.

“Rosé has led a broader trend dubbed ‘pink

“Rosé wine has experienced a significant

drinks’ which also includes cocktails, gin and

increase in popularity worldwide. It has

non-alcoholic adult drinks,” she noted.

evolved from being seen as a seasonal or

As we enter the warmer months, Angove Marketing Manager Matt Redin explains

niche product to a year-round favourite,” he said.

that rosé is a particularly popular choice.

“Rosé has refreshing and versatile characteristics, along with its fruity flavours

As with other wines, rosé has been

and appealing appearance, making it a

positively affected by the premiumisation

popular choice for summer,” said Redin.

trend, explained Emily Harper, Australian

“Being lighter in alcohol generally could make it more appealing in summer as it is not as heavy on the palate,” he added.

Candy highlighted rosé’s prominence in social occasions.

72 | National Liquor News

Growth mindset

Vintage Head of Category and Insights.

“We’re seeing a trend with premiumisation whereby growth is coming from the $25+ segment, which is up 33 per cent versus last quarter. This premiumisation trend is

Rosé

across the wine category in general as consumers

Alex Beckett explained why rosé is so well suited

are buying higher-priced wines at less frequency,”

to these occasions.

she said.

“The combination of typically crisp or fresh

Retail tips

Additionally, imported rosés have been driving

acidity with a textural mouthfeel from either

growth in the sector, particularly Provence and

phenolics or residual sugar makes them an ideal

Marlborough styles. While Australian rosés have

choice for the spritz style, resulting in light and

lost significant market share to international wines

uncomplicated beverages that are easy to drink.

over the last five years, domestic wines still dominate

The lack of high alcohol or tannin in these styles

options, all year-round, will

the category. Howard Park General Manager and

is critical as they don’t usually have components

help support the category,”

Marketing Director Natalie Burch outlined the

that distract or complicate the ‘unconventional’

said Harper.

distinctive characteristics of Australian rosé.

consumption pathways,” he said.

“The sunny, bright, concentrated flavour of

Sparkling rosé is also driving growth in the

Australian rosé is what sets us apart, and the

category, according to Tony Allen, Duxton

diversity of styles we have available will continue

Vineyards’ Wine and Grape Commercial Manager.

to excel beyond the imported styles available on

“Sparkling rosé can show lovely red berry fruits

the market,” Burch described.

and may be slightly richer and more savoury than

1. Promote rosé all year round “Retailers with a wellstocked variety of rosé

2. Direct customer attention to fridge space “Fridge space is obviously key but so are displays and store theatre to drive impulse,” said Stevenson.

Even so, rosé consumers are not typically

a tradition sparkling wine. These characteristics

concerned with regions, and are not driven to

make a very appealing, flavoursome wine with

3. Provide a range of

select Australian wine.

different sensory notes contributing to its

styles and varietals

popularity,” he described.

“We encourage retailers to

“Instead, they are more likely to opt from wellknown or trusted brands that they recognise and

The category also boasts diverse packaging,

love, or that have been recommended to them by

according to David Stevenson, Brown Family

family and friends,” Candy explained.

Wine Group’s (BFWG) Head of Business Insights and Category. Rosé is available in cans, demi and

Fresh takes

quarter bottles, with a high proportion of unique

The rosé category is particularly innovative

bottle designs.

compared to other wine sectors, with consumers

“Packaging innovation including bottle shape

drinking rosé frozen, in spritzes, and mixed with

certainly pushes the boundaries more than any

other drinks. Briar Ridge Vineyard Winemaker

other wine category,” said Stevenson.

look at styles that showcase a myriad of flavours, textures, varieties and regions to give customers the chance to explore the diversity of rosés that Australia can produce,” said Burch.

October 2023 | 73

Rosé

Redin has seen an increased popularity

on wine lists and pub menus across the

of the 187ml format, which consumers are

country, which in turn means more bottles

purchasing both as a single bottle and in

on the shelves of retailers,” she said.

multipacks. The smaller size is versatile,

Rosé consumers also make decisions based

allowing consumers to drink a single glass

on colour, preferring pale, salmon pink wines.

of their preferred wine, or share drinks in a

Despite this colour preference, styles are split

convenient and portable format.

between dry and sweet. Dry, Provençal style

“While 750ml remains the dominant pack

rosés have dominated the market in recent

format, we expect to see smaller format to

years, but sweeter styles are increasing in

meet increasing occasions and moderation

popularity.

trends,” Stevenson agreed.

“Pink Moscato is continuing to ramp up

These unique bottle types cater for a range

in popularity, already being enjoyed by just

of occasions as well as drawing visual interest

over 20 per cent of wine drinkers in Australia,”

De Bortoli leads dry rosé movement

to the category.

said Candy.

De Bortoli’s pale and dry Rosé

These sweet styles are important in

Rosé has intense fruit aromas of

Style and substance

recruiting new consumers to the broader

fresh berries and pomegranate. It

Pinot Noir is the dominant varietal in rosé, but

wine category.

is a delicately structured wine with

there has been increasing experimentation in the category.

“Rosé is a great approachable style of wine meeting many consumer occasions

“The rosé category has become more

and can play an important category

diverse in terms of flavour profiles and styles.

recruitment role for the next generation

Winemakers are experimenting with different

of wine drinkers. Sweet and semi-sweet

grape varieties, fermentation techniques,

styles are popular transition wines for those

and regions, resulting in a wide range of rosé

just starting out in the wine category,”

wines,” said Redin.

Stevenson said.

As the category grows and matures, Burch

Over the coming years, we can expect

has noticed more consumers drinking rosé

interest in rosé to remain high, with a

with food, indicating the potential for food

projected CAGR of 5.3 per cent between

pairing suggestions.

2022 and 2030. Changes we may see include

“Winemakers continue to evolve the style

increasing diversification in the category as

to be more complex, interesting, and even

winemakers and consumers solidify their

more food-friendly, which is why you now

preferences, and further shifts in the occasions

see more and more dedicated rosé sections

for which consumers are choosing rosé.

74 | National Liquor News

■

a textural savoury dry finish. The unique packaging for De Bortoli Rosé Rosé, features a colour sideembossed screw cap that is the first closure decoration of its kind in the world.

Since its inception in 2018, De Bortoli Rosé Rosé has continued to spearhead Australia’s pale dry rosé movement. This year, 2022 Rosé Rosé took centre stage and was named the only rosé from Australia to earn a spot in the competition’s top 10 Rosé for 2023 globally in The Drinks Business 2023 Global Rosé Masters.

Our colour is Rosé

Rosé

What’s yours?

debortoli.com.au

/DeBortoliWines

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Australia has had a long and rich history of lower alcohol beers hitting the mark when once a full-strength only could. Think Little Creatures’ Rogers’, Colonial’s Small Ale and Balter’s Captain Sensible as just some that adorn the walls of the Australian mid-strength hall of fame. And that proud brewing record continues to be built on as more and more breweries offer sessionable options across the style spectrum to a public that are singing out for them. So we thought, as we emerge out of winter’s dark beer territory and into spring, that it was a good time to take a snapshot of what local breweries are doing in this space as our overarching focus for this issue’s tasting. And we’re glad we did as the following pages show those seeking lower alcohol craft options are extremely well catered for. But if these beers aren’t your thing, fret not as we also sampled a wide array of other styles too.

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The Brew Review

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What’s our Seasonal Focus?

Lower alcohol beers

Not all submissions to our tasting panel are featured in the following pages. This could be because of space restrictions, that we already reviewed it in the recent past or the product did not meet our panel’s requirements. We’re 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

Ian Kingham, NSW

Craig Butcher, SA

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.

That Beer Bloke, Ian’s decorated beer career has included judging at Australia’s best competitions while he’s currently the Sydney Royal’s Chair of Judges.

Based in the Barossa Valley, Craig has 20-plus years’ experience in the liquor industry including winery cellarhand, tastings and sales, newbie homebrewer and beermad bottleshop guy.

David Ward, ACT After 15 years in the craft beer world, David is now working for Gravity Seltzer. However, you can often still find him in a front bar enjoying a craft beer or three.

Tina Panoutsos, VIC

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

Jamie Webb-Smith, NSW

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.

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.

Tiffany Waldron, VIC

Benji Bowman, NSW

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

With six years of industry experience in Australian craft beer and cider, Benji is now the state sales manager at Local Drinks Collective, working to increase the footprint and awareness of independent liquor in Australia.

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

Josh Quantrill, NSW Josh is a Certified Cicerone® currently working at 4 Pines Brewing who has extensive experience in the beer industry in the UK and Australia.

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.

Mark Dowell, ACT A beer broker for BentSpoke with a background in liquor retail, Mark is always trying new beers while appreciating the classics that brought us here.

Alice Lynch, WA A Perth-based sales rep for Beerfarm, Alice’s start in the craft beer world came by slinging pints at Two Birds in Melbourne. She’s here to force an end to random men being shocked that women love beer.

Briony Liebich, SA After leading the sensory program at West End Brewery, beer writer, national beer and cider judge, educator and Certified Cicerone® Briony runs Flavour Logic to boost tasting skills and sensory quality programs.

Lindsay Astarita, VIC Certified Cicerone®, beer judge and the Sensory & Quality Coordinator at Stomping Ground, Lindsay is passionate about beer education and all things quality.

Tom Wood, SA Previously at Bright Brewery and Little Creatures, Tom is now Mismatch’s head brewer with a B.Sc (Hons) in Environmental Science and an IBD Diploma in Brewing. He has experience judging several beer competitions nationwide.

Alli Macdonald, NSW Alli has had brewing roles within the beer and cider industry at CUB, Matilda Bay and Little Creatures. Currently Head Brewer at Malt Shovel, she also has industry judging experience and is a Certified Beer Server.

As published in Beer and Brewer Spring 2023

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The Brew Review - Highly Recommended Picks

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Revel Brewing The Reveller

Heaps Normal Coffee Run Stout

Moffat Beach Social Jam

Nail Brewing MVP

La Sirène Saisonette

ABV: 3.5% Style: Mid-strength Pale Bright golden in colour with a nice foam, it sings of tropical fruit and pineapple hop notes that follow through to the palate.

A moderately lingering bitterness balances the finish and is well integrated with the light mouthfeel and body. Good structure, clean and quite moreish.

Food: Fish tacos

ABV: <0.5% Style: Non-alc Stout With a solid track record for making non-alcs of varying shades of pale, they’ve done well here with a style that’s an altogether different beast. Mediumbodied, it’s like a cold brew coffee biscuit with a lager yeast finish. A little more chocolate in the biscuit could help fill it out and nudge it from dark lager territory to proper stout but

ABV: 3.5% Style: Mid-strength Pale Well-made, and with beautiful notes of orange marmalade, tropical hop characteristics and a balanced bitterness, the body and mouthfeel is nicely executed to give the impression of a fullstrength. Golden-hued with beautiful lasting head retention, clarity did exhibit a slight dulling haze.

Food: Fennel & mandarin

ABV: 3.4% Style: Mid-strength Pale A fantastic lower alcohol ale which belies its ABV at every turn. Pouring a dark straw/orange with medium haze and a low fading white head, sweet malt aromas are freshened with tropical fruits and citrus. Much of that carries over to the palate where residual sweetness is balanced out with hop bitterness. Beach cricket’s

ABV: 3.4% Style: Saison Straw-yellow in colour with a light haze that vanishes fairly quick, a spicy but floral musk stick aroma lets you know you’re in farmhouse territory as flavours of light citrus and added zestiness arrive with some floral spice at the back end. Body is thin with a medium to high carbonation in a very wellbalanced beer that hits

this is a super effort for a non-alc.

Food: Almond biscotti

salad moffatbeachbrewingco.

MVP indeed.

Food: Roast chicken

beer

nailbrewing.com.au

the mark with just the right amount of funkiness to give it complexity.

Food: Steak & chimichurri

revelbrewingco.com.au

heapsnormal.com

lasirene.com.au

Mountain Culture Scenic Route

Mountain Culture Sabro

Slow Lane Brewing Hop Detective

Slow Lane Brewing Ton of Bricks

Tallboy & Moose Ursa Minor

ABV: 4.0% Style: Session Hazy IPA A lovely straw haze and white head entice the drinker to take a whiff, and what great aromas you’ll be in for with passionfruit, watermelon, citrus and more. The flavour is very well balanced, full of fruit punch and pineapple, all the while providing a pillowy malt base for the hops to mesh with, presenting a beer that is impeccably well balanced!

Food: Pavlova

ABV: 6.7% Style: Oat Cream IPA Part of a single hop series, they’ve given Sabro an appropriately decadent OC treatment. Deeply hazy with a fluffy head, it’s all ripe tropical fruit nose and creamy sweet in the mouth, but the coconut is more pleasantly natural than confectionery. It’s definitely a squishy and generous example of the style but the highlight is a defined herbaceous hop character that lingers and elevates it beyond just a pina colada in beer form. Great stuff.

Food: Best on its own

ABV: 6.5% Style: Hazy IPA A special release for the brewery’s third birthday, it’s fermented with Sherlock – an English yeast strain from local company Mogwai Labs – and canconditioned. Appearing hazy and thick, it’s packed full of ripe mangoes and candied pineapple with lovely lime blossom aromas and flavours. Fantastic fluffy mouthfeel with balanced sweetness and piney hop bitterness.

Food: Smoky paprika crisps

ABV: 11.5% Style: BA Imperial Stout A very dark black with a thick dark brown head that holds throughout, aromas of glazed cherries and dark chocolate lead to liquorice and molasses flavours embellished with brown sugar and rich dark fruit and chocolate. Very thick and full-bodied, with little to no carbonation, this is a fantastic and skilfully crafted beer that captures the ingredients to their fullest potential.

Food: Seared scallops & pancetta

slowlanebrewing.com.au

slowlanebrewing.com.au

ABV: 5.3% Style: Australian Amber Hailing from the forests of far north QLD, the lemon aspen addition is the absolute star of this easy to drink and refreshing amber ale. Distinct lemon aromas lead proceedings ahead of pawpaw and grapefruit which continue to flavour along with some moderate bitterness. Very well balanced, the moderate malt character provides not only a beautiful mahogany colour but also caramel flavours that perfectly match the lemon aspen.

Food: BBQ smoked nuts

mountainculture.com.au

mountainculture.com.au

tallboyandmoose.com

October 2023 | 77

Wine Tasting Review

The Pinot Gris/ Grigio Tasting In this tasting, our panel of experts sampled Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio and picked their top drops from each of the three price brackets.

Panels Picks

The Panel ➤

➤

➤

➤

➤

➤

G eoff Bollom, Wine Specialist, Porters – Glebe and Balmain East N igel Burton, CEO, Burton Premium Wines D avid Fahey, Wine Consultant D aryl Fisher, General Manager, Fisher Fine Wine K asia Sobiesiak, Wine Educator and Writer C hris Stedman, Wine and Spirits Judge

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

Castel Firmian

Vavasour

BTW

Pinot Grigio

Pinot Gris

Pinot Grigio

Region: Trentino

Region: Marlborough

Region: South Eastern

VIN: 2021 LUC: $19.35

VIN: 2022 LUC: $15.91

Australia

Distributed by:

Distributed by:

VIN: 2023 LUC: $7.52

Single Vineyard Sellers

Déjà Vu Wine Company

Distributed by: Fesq & Co (VIC/NSW/QLD/ACT),

“Ripe apricots and citrus on the palate. Clean, crisp, dry, and fresh.” – Geoff Bollom

“Orange blossom on the nose and green apples on the palate with a long finish. An attractive wine with great fruit.” – David Fahey

Options Wine Merchants (SA/NT), Distinctive Wines & Spirits (WA), Swallow Liquor Merchants (TAS)

“Refreshing, well-made wine showing definitive varietal characteristics.” – Nigel Burton

78 | National Liquor News

Wine Tasting Review

LUC Over $16 La Boheme

Amisfield

Act 3

Pinot Gris

Region: Yarra Valley

Region: Central Otago

VIN: 2022 LUC: $16.11

VIN: 2022 LUC: $21.50

Distributed by:

Distributed by:

De Bortoli Wines

Déjà Vu Wine Company

“Great aromas of rose petal and jasmine. Very well balanced with a great long finish. A joy to drink.” – Daryl Fisher

“There’s fruit ripeness in this wine but it’s followed by a minty freshness cleansing the palate. Cucumber sweetness and bitter grapefruit touch.”

– Kasia Sobiesiak

“Many wines at the cheaper end had clear, pure simplicity of the fruit and refreshment factor, contributing to high drinkability.”

Kasia Sobiesiak Wine Educator and Writer

Pike & Joyce ‘Beurre

Villa Maria Private

Bosc’ Pinot Gris

Bin Pinot Gris

Region: Adelaide Hills

Region: East Coast,

VIN: 2022 LUC: $19.78

New Zealand

Distributed by:

VIN: 2022 LUC: $17.63

Déjà Vu Wine Company

Distributed by: House of Fine Wine

“Clean and fresh with a bit of a spritz. Gives you a bit to think about.” – Chris Stedman

“Nicely balanced acid. Juicy stonefruit shines through, and some texture provides interest.”

– Chris Stedman

Food Pairing ➤

Spring Vale

Devil’s Corner Pinot

Pinot Gris

Grigio

Region: Freycinet Coast,

Region: Tasmania/King Valley

Tasmania

VIN: 2023 LUC: $16.13

VIN: 2022 LUC: $19.89

Distributed by:

Distributed by:

Brown Family Wine Group

Déjà Vu Wine Company

“This is big for a Pinot Gris.

Fresh and alive in the palate.”

– Geoff Bollom

“Some real refreshment here. Perfume is light with a honeysuckle theme, and there is a saltiness in the finish.”

– Kasia Sobiesiak

➤

“ Head down to the local takeaway and grab some fish and chips. There’s plenty of acid in these wines to cut through.”

– Chris Stedman “ Crab salad or prawn pasta.” – Daryl Fisher

“➤ The lighter, fresher styles are great with light seafood and crunchy salads. The more robust, slightly sweet versions of Pinot Gris could pair well with meaty fish and poultry with a touch of spice.” – Kasia Sobiesiak ➤

“ Fresh fish or apple pie.”

– Nigel Burton

October 2023 | 79

Wine Tasting Review

LUC $13-$16

“The wines with a bit of bitterness or phenolics made things more interesting.”

Brockenchack On

Te Kairanga Estate

Point Pinot Grigio

Pinot Gris

Region: Eden Valley/Barossa

Region: Martinborough

VIN: 2023 LUC: $14.30

VIN: 2021 LUC: $15.59

Distributed by:

Distributed by:

Brockenchack Wines

Déjà Vu Wine Company

“An explosion of fruit and acids. Intense, rich, and complex.” – Daryl Fisher

“Light on the fruit with a soft

finish. Easy drinking.” – Nigel Burton

Chris Stedman Wine and Spirits Judge

Editor’s Picks ➤

➤

➤

➤

G iesen 0% Pinot Gris NV, New Zealand, LUC $14.12 (Oatley Fine Wine Merchants)

The Pass

Kumeu River Village

Pinot Gris

Pinot Gris

Region: Central Otago

Region: New Zealand

VIN: 2022 LUC: $13.98

VIN: 2022 LUC: $14.84

Distributed by:

Distributed by:

Déjà Vu Wine Company

Déjà Vu Wine Company

“A well-made classic with apple characters and evident ripe fruits.” – Nigel Burton

“A classic Pinot Gris with apples on the nose and palate.”

– Nigel Burton

Pikes Luccio

Calabria Bélena

Pinot Grigio

Pinot Grigio

Region: Clare Valley

Region: Wine of Australia

VIN: 2023 LUC: $15.05

VIN: 2022 LUC: $13.98

A ngullong Pinot Grigio 2023, Orange, LUC $14.51 (Fisher Fine Wines)

Distributed by:

Distributed by: Calabria

Oatley Fine Wine Merchants

Family Wine Group

M cWilliam’s Inheritance Pinot Grigio 2021, Wine of Australia, LUC $5.00 (Calabria Family Wine Group)

“Honeysuckle with a hint of spice, green apples with a slight acid finish.” – David Fahey

“Aromatic lift perfumed and floral. Flavours are light, with a mineral water feel with a little fizz too and bitter citrus.”

– Kasia Sobiesiak

M aso di Mezzo Pinot Grigio 2021, Italy, LUC $17.20 (Single Vineyard Sellers)

80 | National Liquor News

Wine Tasting Review

LUC Under $13 Nericon

De Bortoli Rutherglen

Pinot Grigio

Estate Pinot Grigio

Region: Wine of Australia

Region: Victoria

VIN: 2023 LUC: $7.00

VIN: 2022 LUC: $11.84

Distributed by:

Distributed by:

Dee Vine Estate

De Bortoli Wines

“Fruit characters of stewed apple and orange blossom, with a hint of spice. A lot of character.” – David Fahey

“Green apple characters on nose and palate. Length and nice acid.” – Nigel Burton

“Many of the lower priced wines outshone the dearer ones.

There are bargains still to be had.”

Geoff Bollom Wine Specialist Porters – Glebe and Balmain East

De Bortoli Blue

Ca’di Alte Pinot

Pinot Gris

Grigio

Region: King Valley

Region: Italy

VIN: 2022 LUC: $ 12.45

VIN: 2022 LUC: $11.83

Distributed by:

Distributed by:

De Bortoli Wines

Déjà Vu Wine Company

“Beautiful pale straw colour.

All the acid is up front, with an apricots and lemon finish.”

– Geoff Bollom

“Rich lemon curd nose with juicy stonefruit palate.

Mouthwatering.”

– Chris Stedman

The Drover

Mt Bera ‘Dream

Pinot Grigio

Catcher’

Region: Wine of Australia

Pinot Grigio

VIN: 2023 LUC: $3.00

Region: Adelaide Hills

Distributed by:

VIN: 2020 LUC: $12.90

Dee Vine Estate

Distributed by: Single Vineyard Sellers

“Spicy apples with a slight acid finish.” – David Fahey

“Rounded mouth feel with slight peach notes. Soft finish.”

– David Fahey

“Wines under $16 were well-made, with good fruit and malics.”

David Fahey Wine Consultant

October 2023 | 81

The latest liquor industry

Events Moët Hennessy launches Volcan X.A in Australia In August, Moët Hennessy celebrated the launch of its new ultra-premium tequila, Volcan X.A, by transforming a private luxury home into a volcanic oasis for an exclusive party.

Taking place in the Sydney suburb of Lavendar Bay, guests were among the first in Australia to sample the new Volcan X.A tequila, alongside two tequila cocktails, the Volcan Blanco Margarita and the Lavaloma, a take on the Paloma.

The transformation of the venue took inspiration from Volcan X.A’s unique bottle design, which pays homage to Volcan de mi Tierra’s distillery at the base of the volcano ‘Tequila’. The Volcan X.A tequila is made exclusively from blue agave, and described as “a tasteful tequila profile, with a reposado base, bringing the right level of sweetness and smoothness, and anejo and extra-anejo adding aromatic balance and complexity”.

Four Pillars gin-spired holiday is back For a second year, Four Pillars and Celebrity Cruises will partner for a gin-focused sailing, with bespoke offerings for travellers such as signature cocktails, exclusive gin tasting and food pairing experiences and the chance to sample the limited-edition Celebrity Cruises x Four Pillars Navy Strength Gin, Anchors Aweigh Gin. The partnership was celebrated at a gin tasting event on Tuesday 19 September, hosted at the Four Pillars Laboratory in Surry Hills.

Guests were guided through a tasting of four gins, including Four Pillars’ Rare Dry Gin, Olive Leaf Gin, Fresh Yuzu Gin and Bloody Shiraz Gin,

by NSW Brand Ambassador Sam Hulston.

On the evening, guests also had the opportunity to sample the Anchors Aweigh Gin limited release in a Ginger Mule cocktail, complemented by a selection of canapes and small snacks.

82 | National Liquor News

Archie Rose launches newest Fundamental Spirits Archie Rose Co-founder Will Edwards and Head Distiller Dave Withers hosted an intimate tasting at Sydney’s the Gidley to celebrate the launch of the new Double Malt Whisky. The Double Malt is blended using a solera system, which gradually combines rye and barley whiskies, resulting in a versatile Australian spirit. Guests at the launch tasted four of the whisky’s individual components before finishing with the new release.

The distillery’s goal for the Double Malt is to provide an Australian whisky that is approachable both in terms of price and flavour profile.

“At the end of the day, the fundamental goal is to get as many people drinking Australian spirits as possible,” said Edwards.

Events

Loire Valley Wines explores flavours and florals In September, Loire Valley Wines hosted a Wine & Blossoms press workshop, showcasing the world of Loire Valley wines alongside unique flower pairings.

Taking place at Watersedge at Campbell’s Store in The Rocks, Sydney, the floral tasting experience featured 10 wines from the Loire Valley region. Florist JJ Phan of Buds and Bowers in Surry Hills guided attendees through flower pairings for each of the wines, before demonstrating how to compose a floral arrangement and inviting attendees to produce their own.

The tasting showcased wines from Louis de Grenelle, Domaine des Grandes Espérances, Domaine Landron Chartier, Domaine des Forges, Château de Fesles, Robert et Marcel, Domaine de Rocheville and Charles Joguet.

Following the press workshop was a trade wine tasting, with more than 80 Loire Valley wines available to sample. Three esteemed producers, Chateau Soucherie, Domaine des Tilleuls and Lionel Gosseaume were seeking representation, while the remaining nine tables showcased carefully curated selections of Loire Valley wines that are already available in Australia.

Campari celebrates the launch of Negroni Week 2023 Kicking off a week of local and international events, Campari hosted its Negroni Week launch party at Hickson House Distilling Co on Monday 18 September. Throughout the night, prominent Sydney bartenders created unique Negroni twists, representing Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, Re, Maybe Sammy, Old Mates Place, Earl’s Juke Joint, and The Dolphin Hotel.

As Negroni Week returned for its 11th year of celebrations, the program honoured the iconic Negroni while raising funds for Slow Food’s mission to ensure that everyone has access to good, clean, and fair food. Following the

The Dalmore Whisky refocuses on Australia At a tasting dinner at Sydney’s Park Hyatt, guests were given the opportunity

launch party, a series of events took place

to sample four Dalmore whiskies, paired with a three-course dinner and

around the country from international bar

wines especially selected to complement each of the whiskies. The Dalmore’s

takeovers to paired Negroni dinners.

Australian Whisky Specialist, Mark Bruce, shared stories about the brand’s history, and led guests through a tasting that included several of the Dalmore’s super premium collection. The most exclusive dram was the King Alexander III, followed by the Dalmore 18 year old and the 21 year old, which heads Dalmore’s signature collection.

With a larger and revitalised Australian team, the Dalmore is renewing its focus on our whisky market.

“The Dalmore is a brand that promises nothing less than the best, with a relentless focus on realising the full potential of our single malt and delivering whisky that is first in its class and truly a masterpiece of its craft. Now is an exciting time for The Dalmore in Australia, we have stronger distribution and availability than ever before, and we are thrilled to be in a position where more people are able to experience our portfolio of unparalleled single malt whiskies,” said Bruce.

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