ICB to continue to use Vodkat name

InterContinental Brands (ICB) can continue to use the name Vodkat, despite losing a legal battle with Diageo last month over the brand name.

The High Court has given UK drinks firm ICB clearance to continue using the Vodkat name provided that it is made clear that the product is not vodka.

"As we have robustly maintained all along, we have never sought to mislead consumers with the branding of Vodkat," said ICB director Paul Burton. "ICB will now be taking further steps in its labelling, advertising and trade information to make it absolutely clear that our product Vodkat is not vodka, which by definition should be at least 37.5% ABV."

The latest ruling follows last month's news that drinks giant Diageo had won the legal battle with ICB blocking the rival drinks company from selling the Vodkat brand as a vodka.

Diageo launched the legal action two years previously claiming that Vodkat was being passed off as vodka. Diageo highlighted Vodkat's 22% ABV, which is significantly lower than the EU's definition of vodka, which states that it must be at least 37.5% ABV.

ICB has confirmed that it will now highlight Vodkat's 22% ABV and its product ingredients (a blend of fermented alcohol and vodka).

"ICB will ask the trade and all its customers to position Vodkat away from vodka, alongside products such as liqueurs, other schnapps and light spirit products. This process has already started," said Burton.