Chocolate heaven for liqueur lovers

Chocoholics can now get their fix in the pub as Thorntons has joined forces with Global Brands to launch a branded chocolate liqueur.

It will capitalise on the growth in specialist and cream liqueurs in the on-trade, said Global Brands marketing director Simon Green.

"Interest in speciality liqueurs is gathering pace and the category is currently experiencing 3% growth in the on-trade," he said, "while cream liqueurs is one of the only spirits categories that is growing in both value and volumes in the on-trade."

Thorntons Chocolate Liqueur is a 17% ABV product made with cocoa, vodka & cream. It was developed by Thorntons' master chocolatier Keith Hurdman alongside Global Brands.

It can be served over ice, in cocktails, hot beverages or desserts, said the company, which is offering licensees bespoke menus of cocktails and staff training to help

support the launch of the brand.

"We think that the product's quality and the association of luxury that the Thorntons name carries with it, is perfect for what today's consumer is looking for," said Green.