(Alco)Seltzer! How the trend for Seltzers has crossed the Atlantic - Ginposium 2020 II

Hard seltzer, spiked seltzer or hard sparkling water is a type of highball drink containing carbonated water, alcohol, and often fruit flavouring. Hard seltzer/ soda is an emerging category and expected to trend in the liquor market as consumer trends shift towards including “Better for You” drinks alternatives.

The  category is experiencing phenomenal growth in the United States, growing over 300% per annum, with sales values of $2.7B USD in less than 4 years. (Source: Nielsen CGA On premise and Total measured Off premise channels 52 weeks ended 28 December 2019)

Founded in 2008 by entrepreneur William Chase, the Chase Distillery portfolio includes seven gins, four vodkas and an elderflower liqueur.

In addition to Chase GB Gin, a smooth, full-bodied gin, perfectly balanced with juniper, spice and citrus, Chase has created a number of flavoured gins, including Pink Grapefruit & Pomelo, Seville Marmalade and Rhubarb & Bramley Apple Gin, which are leading gin innovations that are fresh, zesty and tangy in taste.

The portfolio also includes Williams Elegant 48 Gin, made using 48 rare varieties of apple from 200-year old orchards. Sustainability and a relentless focus on quality are at the heart of everything the Chase Distillery does. The spirits portfolio is distilled from scratch using British-grown potatoes, apples and all-natural botanicals on the Chase Farm in Herefordshire.

The steam energy used to run the distillery is produced on site from a biomass boiler powered by prunings from the apple orchard, with potato waste used as fertiliser to feed the farm’s cattle. Diageo announced in October that it has reached agreement to acquire Chase Distillery.