Ballantine’s mixes with Brazilian passion

Chivas Brothers' has today announced an addition to its Ballantine’s Scotch whisky portfolio with the launch of Ballantine’s Brasil – a lime-infused spirit drink.

Made by cask steeping Scotch whisky with Brazilian lime peel, Ballantine’s Brasil is described as represents as “an innovative fusion of the traditions of Scotland with the passion of Brazil”. The new variant is expected to resonate with consumers who are new to Scotch, as well as existing Ballantine’s drinkers.

An ABV of 35% ensures that the taste is both smooth and consistent, with the sweet and creamy flavours of Scotch balancing the refreshing lime taste.

Ballantine’s Brasil is presented in a clear version of the brand’s distinctive bottle with a label that label features the brand’s familiar ‘B’ signifier. A bespoke ‘Brasil’ crest and a lime green closure complete the Brazilian look and feel, while ensuring strong shelf presence. 

Ballantine’s has also developed a signature serve for Ballantine’s Brasil called the Highland Samba, which mixes Ballantine’s Brasil and lemonade, served over ice and topped with two freshly-cut slices of lime. A further four Brazilian-themed serves have been created, comprising: Glen Rio:  a mix of Ballantine’s Brasil and apple juice; Flower O’Brasil: Ballantine’s Brasil mixed with freshly squeezed lime and elderflower; Caledinho: Ballantine’s Brasil combined with freshly squeezed lime and mixed with crushed sugar; and Glen Coco: The Caledinho, with the addition of coconut.

Peter Moore, global brand director for Ballantine’s, says: “There is a huge opportunity for spirit drinks that are made with whisky, as it’s an exceptionally dynamic new category that is already demonstrating a strong rate of growth. Ballantine’s Brasil is a venture into new territory for us, but we’re excited to have a product that can take advantage of this opportunity and one that can truly inspire those who have not yet found their perfect way to enjoy a Scotch whisky drink. We hope that Ballantine’s Brasil will excite a new generation of consumers with the combination of Scottish authenticity and Brazilian passion!”

More information can be found at www.mixitwithbrasil.com, where customers can also view a series of tutorials on how they can ‘Mix it with Brasil’ to create their own favourite Ballantine’s Brasil cocktails.

Ballantine’s Brasil will be launching in selected key markets around the world, starting with the Czech Republic and the Netherlands later this month and rolling out globally from February 2014. The RRP varies within each market, with the RRP for the Czech Republic being CZK 379 (approximately 14€).

3 December 2013 - Felicity Murray The Drinks Report, editor