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The Weekly Sip is Food Dive’s column focused on the latest news in the rapidly changing and growing beverage sector. From inaugural product lines to big investments and controversial topics, this column aims to quench the thirst for developments in the category.
Jim Beam Introduces Tropical Twist to Kentucky Bourbon
As the temperatures rise, Jim Beam is spicing things up by adding a touch of sweetness to its bourbon lineup.
The Suntory-owned bourbon brand is unveiling a new flavor, Jim Beam Pineapple, which combines the tropical essence of pineapple with the classic oak and caramel notes of Kentucky bourbon. This new offering is targeted towards those who may find whiskey intimidating and serves as a refreshing introduction to the spirit.
Jim Beam suggests mixing the Pineapple bourbon with ingredients like sparkling water and lime juice to create enticing cocktails.
Jim Beam Pineapple is now available at select retailers, joining other popular flavors in the brand’s portfolio such as Honey, Peach, and Apple. In addition to this new release, Jim Beam has expanded its reach with ready-to-drink canned cocktails, building on the success of their Kentucky Coolers partnership with Boston Beer.
Molson Coors Unveils Raspberry Dragonfruit Refresher
Molson Coors is adding a burst of flavor to its lineup of Gen Z-targeted cocktails.
The Happy Thursday range of spiked refreshers, launched by Molson Coors last year, introduces its latest variety, Raspberry Dragonfruit, alongside other popular flavors like Mango Passionfruit and Pineapple Starfruit. Each can boasts a 4.4% alcohol by volume content.
The decision to incorporate dragonfruit was influenced by its 111% increase in menu appearances over the past four years, as revealed by Datassential data shared by Molson Coors.
“As we expand our non-carbonated flavor lineup, we’re always attuned to the evolving preferences of our 21+ Gen Z consumers – particularly the bold, new flavors they desire in the non-carbonated spiked refresher category,” stated Zach Paciorek, senior marketing manager at Molson Coors.
The Happy Thursday brand was developed based on insights from a panel of Gen Z consumers, focusing on the flavors and formats that resonate with this demographic in the alcoholic beverage space.
Non-fizzy ready-to-drink cocktails are gaining traction as more consumers seek alternatives to carbonated seltzers like White Claw. Coca-Cola recently joined this trend by launching Minute Maid spiked lemonade and fruit punch canned cocktails through its Red Tree Beverages distributor.
Hint Elevates Sparkling Water with Electrolytes
Hint, a beverage startup, offers a refreshing solution to hydration.
Introducing Sparkling Water With Electrolytes in Peach Raspberry, Pink Grapefruit, Lime, and Tangerine flavors, Hint’s latest drinks combine natural fruit essences, essential electrolyte minerals, and zero sweeteners for a guilt-free refreshment.
“The sparkling water category is rapidly growing, and with our distinct formulations – fruit essences without any calories, sugar, or artificial sweeteners – we knew we could make a mark in this space,” said Michael Pengue, CEO of Hint Water. “We are excited to introduce Hint Sparkling Water With Electrolytes to make staying hydrated a more enjoyable experience.”
Hint is renowned for its flavored still water and is recognized as the top-selling unsweetened still water brand according to SPINS and Circana data referenced by the company.
The demand for hydration beverages is on the rise as consumers seek the benefits typically associated with sports drinks. The electrolyte drinks market is projected to reach $74 billion by 2034, growing at a rate of 5.7% annually, according to Precedence Research.