London International Wine & Spirits Fair
In amongst a host of launches for the off-trade and private wholesale businesses, the big news for licensees from this year's fair was Constellation...
- In amongst a host of launches for the off-trade and private wholesale businesses, the big news for licensees from this year's fair was Constellation Europe's unveiling of a new brand for the on-trade: Twin Fin. It is a premium wine brand hailing from California and it really plays on its association with the "sunshine state", with iconic Californian symbols such as surfboards and Cadillacs on its labeling. There are four grape varietals available, two whites - pinot grigio and chardonnay - and two reds - merlot and cabernet sauvignon. All bottles are screwcap.
- Beam Wine Estates has announced the first extension to its sherry portfolio in nine years with the launch of Harveys Fino. It will sit next to the rest of the Harveys range: the amontillado, pale cream, cream and premium styles.
- Independent Global Brands showcased its Bosco range of flavoured vodkas and premium spirits. Company head Frank Bosco told The Publican that his flavoured vodkas, which range from cassis to blueberry, were interesting supermarkets and pub retailers including Scottish & Newcastle. The company also sells a range of cognacs and a premium dry gin.
- Perhaps surprisingly there was also a soft drinks launch at the fair, with Willow Spring Water announcing its wares to the trade. The product is bottled at source below Cartmel Fell in the Lake District and is now available for the first time in the on-trade. The product was launched at the fair by Michelin-starred chef Mike North as part of his English food-matching seminar.
