Grammy-winning electronic band Rüfüs Du Sol is entering the beverage market with the launch of its hard kombucha brand, Mate Maker.
The label is co-founded with industry veterans Justin Medcraft of Pabst Brewing Co, the electronic trio’s manager Danny Robson, and Tom Appleton of Four Pillars Gin.
“When we discovered hard kombucha a couple of years back in the US, we immediately thought people in Australia would get it,” said Jon George of Rüfüs Du Sol.
Mate Maker is an alcoholic beverage made from organic fruit and cold-pressed botanicals, blended with green tea kombucha, and stored in recyclable cans.
It is low-sugar, gluten-free, free from artificial colours and flavours, and certified vegan.
The collaborative says it is a refreshing, delicious, and real fruit alternative for consumers who choose to “drink better”.
Available in two flavours – Mango Peach and Citrus Mule – the hard kombucha has a 4 per cent ABV, contains less than 110 calories, and less than 5g of sugar per can.
“Drinks innovation is so important for our customers, and with the rapid growth of seltzer these last two years, we’re confident that Mate Maker Hard Kombucha delivers all of the same functional benefits with a liquid that tastes really great,” said Appleton.
Aside from sustainable packaging and using organic ingredients, Mate Maker is a member of 1% For The Planet, donating a share of annual sales to environmental causes.
Mate Maker hard kombucha is available online, at independent retailers, and Rüfüs Du Sol’s upcoming shows. More flavours are expected to follow next year.
