Coca-Cola will have its second alcoholic drink
Coca-Cola is capitalizing on the canned cocktail craze with a boozy version of its Fresca soft drink. In a partnership between brewer Corona Constellation Brands and Coke, the companies will launch Fresca Mixed, a spirits-based cocktail, later this year.
Fresca is the second Coke-owned soft drink to be converted into an alcoholic version. In 2020, it successfully launched Topo Chico hard seltzer. Images and nutritional information for Fresca Mixed have not yet been released.
Constellation and Coke said they are launching the product because Fresca is "seeing a surge in popularity" because it is calorie-free and sugar-free, making the 64-year-old beverage an optimal choice as a mixer.
The companies did not reveal which flavors they will release, but said Fresca Mixed will be "inspired by recipes created by Fresca fans around the world." One notable fan is Bravo host Andy Cohen, who commonly drinks a “Frequila” on his show, which mixes tequila and Fresca.
Sales of canned cocktails soared as drinkers seek convenience and new flavors beyond wine and beer. The beverage category grew 53% last year and is projected to grow another 29% over the next three years, according to data from IWSR Drinks Analysis. Constellation research says alternative beverages for adults, including ready-to-drink cocktails, represent an $8.000 billion market and will continue to grow.
We know we're hard to find, but soon we'll be reunited once again (even if it isn't as soon as we'd all like). pic.twitter.com/hPq1JDDofP
– Fresh (@Fresh) January 13, 2021
The craze is eclipsing boozy seltzers. After strong sales in recent years, the low-calorie drink has lost popularity and sales as customers grow bored with it.
Coca-Cola rival PepsiCo last year announced its entry into the spirits industry with "HARD MTN DEW," a sugar-free canned beverage with 5% alcohol by volume that it is creating with Boston Beer Company.
Miami Daily
Author: Patricia Chung 6:46 pm