Belvoir Fruit Farms has released its “without the hangover” range of drinks in Australia.
Based on popular wine varietals Shiraz, Chardonnay and Rosé, the non-alcoholic drinks and cordials UK company blended the grape juices with other fruit juices, herbs & spices.
Developed to emulate the texture and sensation of drinking wine, the three flavours target the 30 per cent of adults who either don’t drink alcohol at all or on a regular basis and those looking to “enjoy” without the repercussions of drinking it.
“The non-drinker market has such huge potential in Australia. It amazes me how many adults tell me they don’t like plain water and are looking for something better than the average sugary soft drink, but most retailers only sell the cheap artificial drinks. With huge numbers of immigrants and visitors from Asia and the middle East that don’t drink, it’s a huge opportunity,” said Anthony Notaras managing director of Thirst for Life.
Unlike de-alcoholised wine, Belvoir’s range is not fermented and therefore does not need to go through the de-alcoholising stage, which strips out much of the flavour of the wine. All three varieties have no added sugar and are free from preservatives and anything artificial.
Chardonnay – For those who crave a chilled glass of white, the non-alcoholic blend of Chardonnay contains white grape and peach juices with Elderflower and Jasmine extracts. A pale straw yellow in colour, it has a distinctive taste of white grape with a nose of grape and peach and a delicate floral finish. Its sweet, scented & crisp in flavour, is great paired with chicken, fish or cheese. Non-carbonated, best served slightly chilled.
Shiraz – For those who prefer a more full-bodied red, Belvoir’s non-alcoholic blend of single strength Shiraz red grape juice with elderberry and blackcurrant juices — and a hint of black peppercorn and vanilla extracts — really hits the mark. It has a very ‘grown-up’ taste with a nose of blackcurrant, a touch of vanilla and a semi-sweet fruity flavour with an astringent, slightly mouth drying finish and a hint of spice typically associated with a Shiraz red wine. Just like the alcoholic variety this rich dark red alcohol-free version slips down nicely with steak or boeuf bourguignon. Non-carbonated, best served at room temperature.
Rosé – This non-alcoholic sparkling Rosé contains a carefully blended mix of rosé, red and white grape juices balanced with raspberry juice and a touch of orange blossom and jasmine extracts. With its clear rose-gold colour and crisp, lively sensation on the tongue, it has a nose of raspberry with a floral hint. Serve chilled, it’s slightly sweet and fruity rosé grape flavour combines with a crisp, clean finish making it perfect for a refreshing aperitif.
The “without the hangover” range is imported by Thirst for Life and will be targeting health food stores, gourmet food outlets, hotels and entertainment venues.
