Loch Lomond moves into hard seltzers

Independent Scottish distiller Loch Lomond Group has joined the fast-growing hard seltzer category with the launch of Forrit.

Forrit, which means ‘forward’ in Scots language, consists of three flavours: Forrit Peach, Lemon and Mint; Forrit Watermelon, Lime and Basil; and Forrit Strawberry, Rhubarb and Ginger.

Bottled at 4.5% ABV, Forrit combines distilled alcohol with sparkling water and natural botanicals.

The zero-sugar hard seltzer range comes in 330ml cans. Each expression is suitable for vegans and contains 90 calories.

Calum Leslie, innovation director at Loch Lomond Group, said: “Forrit is for the forward-thinking consumer looking to try something new and with the hard seltzer market gathering momentum in the UK now is a great time to launch this new range.

“With Forrit, customers can enjoy a lower calorie drink without having to sacrifice that all-important flavour. The natural botanicals infused with our fruit blends add an extra dimension to our range, making Forrit an exciting new offering for consumers to enjoy.”

Priced at RRP £2 (US$2.65) per 330ml can, Forrit is available online via forritdrinks.com. Trade professionals can also purchase the hard seltzer brand in packs of 12 for RRP £13.99 (US$18.55) from HT Drinks and United Wholesale Grocers.

Hard seltzers are forecast to gain more shelf space in the US over the next year, according to recent a survey of independent retailers.

East London Liquor Company, Jose Cuervo and Smirnoff have all recently launched their own iterations of hard seltzers, a category that is forecast to be worth US$14.5 billion by 2027.