Gonzalez Byass launches Sherry-based British sparkler

Gonzalez Byass has released a new pre-mixed, Sherry-based sparkler in the UK following two years of market research, describing it as a “true innovation”.

Croft Twist, a ready-mixed sparkler, is a “British version” of the Andalusian ‘rebujito’ cocktail

Croft Twist, a ready-mixed sparkling cocktail, is a “British version” of the Andalusian ‘rebujito’, which is made from Fino Sherry, lemonade and ice with a garnish of mint.

Instead, Croft is a blend of elderflower, lemon and mint cordials with Croft Fino and water; all gently sparkled.

The low alcohol serve carries an abv of just 5.5% and is intended to be served with a garnish of basil or mint and lots of ice.

“Croft Twist is the most delicious and visually exciting product that the Company has launched in recent years, a true innovation”, said Martin Skelton, managing director of Gonzalez Byass UK, adding: “We are thrilled to bring such a unique product to market and strongly believe it has all the ingredients to be a huge success”.

It has been launched by Gonzalez Byass after two years of in-depth research into changing consumer habits in alcohol consumption.

The drink is targeted at 30-45 year-old female drinkers, with research indicating their love “for heritage brands that reinvent themselves in a respectful and creative way”.

The packaging is intended to evoke “British confidence and nostalgia”, reinventing the Croft brand with an original and contemporary design.

The launch will be supported by customer promotion, widespread advertising on Facebook and sampling at summer events.

Croft Twist will be available in 75cl bottles, first at Waitrose and later Ocado, at £7 a bottle, while Matthew Clark will be distributing it within the UK on-trade.