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William Grant moves into low-alcohol with Atopia
Glenfiddich owner William Grant & Sons has entered the low-alcohol category with the launch of 0.5% abv ‘spirit’ Atopia.
A glass of Atopia and tonic contains 75 times less alcohol than a standard gin and tonic
Atopia is made from “natural” distillates, flavours and extracts, and is available in two variants: Spiced Citrus and Wild Blossom.
Created by Lesley Gracie, Hendrick’s master distiller at William Grant & Sons, Atopia’s flavour is attained through natural distillation and botanical extraction to “build layers of taste complexity and sophistication”.
Gracie aimed to “create an accessible yet special flavour profile to elevate the moderated drinking experience”.
Atopia Spiced Citrus is said to reflect “the tastes of the seasons” with notes of “zesty citrus” and “gentle spice”. It is recommended served with Indian tonic water and garnished with an orange slice.
Meanwhile, Atopia Wild Blossom is described as “green apple meets floral notes with a hint of smokiness” and is best served with Mediterranean tonic water and a slice of green apple for garnish.
A glass of Atopia and tonic contains 75 times less alcohol than a standard gin and tonic.
“Atopia is a special liquid that uses our distilling and blending expertise to create a new generation of spirits,“ said Gracie.
“Inspired by the more mindful, lifestyle choices of today’s consumer, the exquisite liquid comes in two perfectly balanced flavours.
“We’ve used our distilling heritage and expertise to ensure no compromise on flavour is experienced when drinking the ultra-low alcohol spirit. The flavour is full, from first taste to finish.”
The Atopia range is available across the UK this week from Sainsbury’s, Ocado, and G1 bars in Scotland. It has an RRP of £25 (US$31.75) per 700ml.
William Grant & Sons joins a number of brands who have moved into the burgeoning low-alcohol sector in the past year. In June 2018, Diageo-owned Gordon’s created two “ultra-low-alcohol” pre-mixed gin and tonic sparkling beverages.
Non-alcoholic ‘spirit’ Seedlip launched a new apéritif brand this year, which is thought to be the world’s first non-alcoholic apéritif range.
Diageo also brought out a low-abv botanical range for its Ketel One Vodka, while Glen’s Vodka released two flavoured spirits each bottled at 20% abv in February this year.
Last month, Scotch whisky maker Whyte & Mackay launched 21.5% abv Whyte & Mackay Light.