Lagunitas, known for its highly drinkable IPA, recently launched its Hoppy Refresher as an IPA-inspired sparkling water with hops. The refreshing zero-alcohol beverage is also free from any carbohydrates and calories but comes packed with flavor from Citra, Equinox and Centennial hops. Although Lagunitas' Hoppy Refresher can be enjoyed on its own for a beer-like tasting experience, it can also be combined with alcoholic spirits as desired to create unique cocktails.
Adults who are looking to moderate the amount of sugar and alcohol they consume are turning to sparkling water as a texture- and flavor-rich alternative. The popularity of carbonated water beverages is also inspiring the creation of a variety of alcohol-like products, many of which feature ingredients that are traditionally used in the fermentation process.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Health-conscious Beverages
- Creating low-sugar, low-alcohol or non-alcoholic beverages with unique flavors and textures.
- Alternative Cocktail Mixers
- Developing sparkling water-based mixers that can be combined with alcoholic spirits for innovative cocktail creations.
- Fermentation-inspired Products
- Exploring the use of traditional fermentation ingredients in non-alcoholic beverages to mimic the flavors and complexity of alcoholic drinks.
Where This Applies
- Beverage Industry
- Opportunities to introduce innovative, health-focused beverages that cater to the increasing demand for low-sugar and low-alcohol options.
- Alcohol Industry
- New possibilities for developing mixers and cocktails that cater to consumers seeking unique and flavorful alcohol alternatives.
- Alternative Beverage Industry
- Potential for creating fermentation-inspired, non-alcoholic drinks that provide a similar drinking experience to traditional alcoholic beverages.
