# Berry-Forward Vodka Seltzers -196 Strawberry Gets Its Immense Flavor from a Proprietary Process By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2025-05-17 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/suntorys-196-strawberry References: [prnewswire](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/suntory-global-spirits-brings-japanese-innovation-to-the-vodka-seltzer-category-with-the-nationwide-launch-of--196-302456027.html) & [suntoryglobalspirits](http://www.suntoryglobalspirits.com)  Drinkers typically expect [canned vodka seltzers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vodka-refreshers) to be light, refreshing, and convenient, and [Suntory's](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/196-canned-cocktails) -196 Strawberry introduces adults in the United States to a crisp, fruit-forward experience that exceeds expectations with a proprietary Freeze Crush Infusion process rooted in Japanese craftsmanship. This technique involves flash-freezing whole fruits in liquid nitrogen—at exactly -196°C—and then crushing and infusing them in premium vodka to capture the taste. Flavor-wise, the new Strawberry flavor is said to taste just like a sun-ripened strawberry with a delicious sweet and tart balance, and no lingering aftertaste that detracts from the experience. -196 Vodka Seltzer Strawberry is a new permanent flavor, joining favorites like bright and zesty Lemon, floral and bittersweet Grapefruit, and juicy Peach. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.5/10 - Popularity: 45% | Activity: 48% | Freshness: 41% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Drinking](https://www.trendhunter.com/drinking) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Freeze-crush Infusion Technique:** This innovative method of infusing fruits at extreme cold temperatures introduces a novel way to capture fresh, authentic flavors in beverages. - **Fruit-forward Alcoholic Beverages:** The rising popularity of seltzers that emphasize natural fruit flavors provides new avenues for differentiation in the crowded canned alcohol market. - **Craftsmanship-inspired Beverages:** Drawing on traditional skills and craftsmanship to enhance modern beverages creates unique products that set themselves apart in terms of quality and experience. ### Where This Applies - **Canned Alcoholic Beverages:** A growing segment of consumers seeks out premium, natural fruit flavors, pushing innovation within the canned cocktail sector. - **Food and Beverage Processing Technology:** Advancements in freezing and infusion technologies open up new possibilities for product developers eager to deliver novel tastes and textures. - **Craft Spirits:** Applying artisanal techniques to mass-produced spirits provides an opportunity to bridge the gap between traditional luxury and mainstream accessibility. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Fruit-Forward RTD Vodka Seltzers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/combo-flavor-variety-pack.md) - [Japanese Vodka Seltzers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/japanese-vodka-seltzer.md) - [Zesty Lemon Seltzers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zero-sugar-lemon.md) - [Japanese Heritage Canned Cocktails](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/196-canned-cocktails.md) - [Refreshing Alcoholic Seltzer Flavors](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ntrl-strawberry.md) - [Spirits-Based Seltzers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/truly-vodka-seltzer.md) - [Hard Seltzer-Inspired Vodkas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/truly-flavored-vodka.md) - [Fruit-Forward Canned Cocktails](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smirnoff-smash-vodka-soda.md) - [Fruity Vodka Sodas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/truly-vodka-soda.md)