News Briefs for September 22, 2023
September 22, 2023•The Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America have elected Doug Shaw, president of M.S. Walker, as chairman of the board. Shaw addressed the group at WSWA’s annual member meeting, held in Washington, D.C., discussing the importance of strengthening the three-tier system amid an industry-wide period of innovation. He also spoke about the importance of building WSWA’s SipSource data program and of the need for federal cannabis regulation. Shaw steps into this new role following previous chairman, former RNDC CEO Tom Cole.
•Skyy Vodka announced two additions to its Infusions line of flavored releases. The new options are Skyy Infusions Espresso and Agave Lime, the first innovations since the brand was reformulated in 2021. Skyy Infusions Espresso is made with just vodka, cold brew concentrate or espresso, and simple syrup, while Agave Lime is made with vodka, lime, and agave nectar. As part of the launch for Espresso, the brand has partnered with the model Winnie Harlow to create a new content series. Both Espresso and Agave Lime are available nationwide, priced at $14 a 750-ml. Other entries in the Infusions series include Blood Orange, Citrus, Pineapple, and Watermelon. Skyy had U.S. volume of 1.85 million 9-liter cases last year, according to Impact Databank.
•Breakthru Beverage announced a national partnership with Superbird Tequila. The brand, produced by Casa Komos Brands Group, offers Blanco, Reposado, and spicy Fuego expressions, all made with 100% blue weber agave. Breakthru will offer the three expressions across 14 U.S. markets including California, Florida, and Illinois.
•Oregon grape production in 2022 was up nearly 20% over the prior year to just over 137,000 tons, according to a new report issued by the Oregon Wine Board. In addition, the value of the crop shot up 22% to $330 million, a new record for the state. According to the group’s report, Oregon wine’s total volume grew 13.3% to 5.7 million cases. DTC sales, including tasting rooms, also rose for 2022, up 12.6% when including both wine clubs and tasting room sales.
•Boston Beer’s Truly Hard Seltzer is introducing a new mix pack for fall. The Celebrations Mix Pack will contain the returning Truly Rosé along with three new seasonal options: Peach Fizz, Cranberry Cheers, and Citrus Sparkler. It follows recent variety packs like Truly’s mystery inspired Wonderworld pack and its latest seasonal Red, White & Tru pack. The company also partnered with clothing company Mr. Eatwell on a line of Truly Rosé apparel. Truly was down 22% to 48 million (2.25-gallon) cases in the U.S. last year, according to Impact Databank.
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