Release Radar: VB goes low-carb, Diageo special releases arrive to Aus, no-alc Guinness, and more

March 14, 2024
By Cody Profaca

VB Low Carb

Victoria Bitter has released a low-carb version of its classic lager, marking the brand’s first foray into the better-for-you space. VB Low Carb beer has been made to mimic the full-strength full-flavour profile of the brand’s flagship offering but with 33% less carbs. 

“With the full flavour and strength of regular VB at 4.9% ABV, we reckon it will appeal to even the most die-hard VB purists. Our brewers weren’t sure it was possible, but they did it and it’s bloody good,” said Head of Classic Brands at CUB Sarah Wilcox. 

“In the past, some classic beer lovers thought low carb beer was not for them, but with seven out of 10 VB drinkers telling us they’d seriously consider a low carb option, it is the right time for VB Low Carb. 

“We are committed to innovations like this at CUB because it creates value for our customers and helps grow the entire beer category.”

VB Low Carb is now available in 375ml cans and bottles at bottleshops across the country with a RRP of around $55 per case of 24.

Guinness 0.0 has arrived in time for St Patrick’s Day

Guinness has announced the release of the non-alcoholic version of its Irish Stout ahead of St Patrick Day this Sunday. 

The Guinness 0.0 strives to emulate the flavour and texture of the brand’s flagship beer in an  alcohol-free package. 

According to data from Lion Australia, the release comes at a time of continued growth for the no-low category. It also comes shortly ahead of the year’s biggest Irish celebration, with an estimated equivalent of 2.4 million pints expected to be drunk over the current festive period. 

“The launch of Guinness 0.0 is catering to consumer needs, without compromising on the signature Guinness flavour profile that its drinkers know and love,” said Albertus Lombard, Lion Brand Director of premium beer. 

Guinness 0.0 is now available nationwide in 440ml cans at an RRP of $15.99 per 4-pack. 

Diageo’s Spirited Xchange 2023 collection

Diageo’s 2023 special releases single malt collection Spirited Xchange 2023 has arrived to Australian shores. 

The collection features eight whiskies directly inspired by eight different nations. 

“As the popularity of whisky continues to grow in Australia, Diageo’s Special Releases ‘Spirited Xchange 2023’ Single Malt Scotch Whisky Collection offers an exciting, new way to explore the diversity and depth of Scottish Whisky,” said Kate McGraw, Diageo’s National Whisky Ambassador for Australia.

“This collection looks at whisky through the lens of cultural and flavour collaboration, a unique tasting experience that combines some of the world’s most revered and treasured whisky distilleries with a modern sensibility.”

The eight whiskies in the collection are:

  • Singleton 14 Year Old, The Silk Atelier (France) $170
  • Talisker Non Age Declared, The Wild Explorador (Portugal) $170
  • Lagavulin 12 Year Old, The Ink of Legends (Mexico) $220
  • Mortlach Non Age Declared, The Katana’s Edge (Japan) $399
  • Clynelish 10 Year Old, The Jazz Crescendo (USA) $240
  • Glenkinchie 27 Year Old, The Floral Treasure (China) $599
  • Oban 11 Year Old, The Soul of Calypso (Caribbean) $199
  • Roseisle 12 Year Old, The Soaring Kite (North Sea/ Scandinavia) $170

The Diageo’ Special Releases ‘Spirited Xchange 2023’ Collection are available in limited quantities nationwide now. 

Rooster Rojo’s Mezcal now part of Australian lineup 

Amber Beverages have recently started importing Rooster Rojo Mezcal into Australia, complementing the brand’s already available range of Tequilas. 

First released in 2022, the Rooster Rojo Mezcal is made from seven-year-old Espadin agaves from the Oaxaca region. Espadin agave is the genetic grandfather of blue agave, the only variety permitted in Tequila production. As a result, it tends to share some of the same flavour characteristics. 

Expect the Rooster Rojo Mezcal to display a rich and rustic style laden with fruit and smoked herb notes. 

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