Integral pourer, latex label – whatever next?

Hi Spirits have unveiled a revolutionary piece of drinks packaging incorporating a spring-loaded integral pourer. Called Pro-Pour, and originally designed for olive oil bottles, the system will be found on the range of Volare liqueurs, the new name for Hi Spirits’ Gecko brand.

The packaging has been developed in partnership with award winning cocktail consultant Jamie Stephenson and, as well as including the innovative pouring mechanism, all 11 flavours in the portfolio of spirits come in juggling club-shaped bottles designed for flairing.

Hi Spirits are also announcing the launch of Effen vodka in the UK. The brand, which is Dutch for smooth, is currently selling around 80,000 9l cases in the US where it was introduced 18 months ago, as part of a joint venture between Constellation and Planet 10 Spirits. Priced to compete with superpremium vodkas Belvedere and Grey Goose, Effen comprises two lines – a pure vodka and a black cherry and vanilla flavoured version. The packaging is striking, tall with clear glass and a latex sleeve for a label. The launch, officially planned for September 1 in the UK and Australia, is likely to be supported by downloadable "podcasts" starring Jamie Stephenson.

© db 28th June 2006