Pernod Ricard expands lower-ABV portfolio with Ballantine’s Light and Beefeater Light

Pernod Ricard has released two new lower alcohol expressions from Ballantine’s and Beefeater in response to consumers wanting to cut down their alcohol consumption.

Ballantine’s Light and Beefeater Light are 20% ABV spirit drinks with half the alcohol of the original Ballantine’s and Beefeater variants.

 The new lower-ABV spirits are launching exclusively in Spain this month. Spain is a key market for both Beefeater and Ballantine’s and one of the biggest markets in Europe for the no/low alcohol category, with at least 50% of bars and restaurants having no- or lower-alcohol options on their menus. In Spain, 54% of consumers are reducing or considering reducing their alcohol consumption, to support a more balanced lifestyle.

Ballantine’s Light was crafted after experimentation with different whisky bases and additional flavors by the Chivas Brothers blending team led by Ballantine’s Master Blender, Sandy Hyslop. It is designed to be enjoyed in the same way as the full-strength Scotch – whether neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail.

 Beefeater Light is an all-natural, gin-inspired spirit containing the same nine botanicals used for Beefeater London Dry, crafted by Master Distiller Desmond Payne MBE. The expression launches alongside a new bottle design inspired by Beefeater’s authentic London heritage, and features key enhancements such as a new bottle shape, modelled on the iconic London brick.

 Ballantine’s Light and Beefeater Light will be exclusively available in Spain from January 2021, with an RSP of €12.45 and €13.55 respectively.