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StateWays | www.stateways.com | May/June 2017 39 "We have found that fruit flavors are performing better than savory or confectionary flavors," says Carl Nolet Jr. Ketel One offers just two flavors: Citroen and Oranje. BEYOND FRUITY TO SAVORY Although still a small percentage of portfolios, refreshing herbal and vegetal flavors have proven successful for some producers. They tend to be aimed at bartenders as cocktail tools. "With savory flavors, we are seeing some small pop ups here and there," Black says. "Potential indicators are that there is in- terest in that space, but it's still niche." "There have been some fast-growth vegetable flavor inno- vations in the last few years," says Wai-Poi at Beam Suntory. Pinnacle Cucumber grew nearly 50% last year. Svedka launched Cucumber Lime last year, which it counts as a successful debut, along with the spicy Svedka Grapefruit Jalapeno. There are 14 flavors in the Svedka portfolio, with Strawberry Lemonade, Mango Pineapple and Peach the best sellers. "We've found that consumers are constantly seeking out a new experience and innovative flavored vodkas offer that," Arcos says. Heaven Hill's Burnett's also offers a Cucumber Lime flavor, released last year. The brand's portfolio runs to 37 flavors, with Cherry and Citrus leading as best-sellers, Hafer says. "Although fruit - and especially citrus - are a focus for Absolut, there will always be an opportunity for other flavors," Guastaferro says, citing Absolut Peppar and Absolut Cilantro. He notes that these flavors are more on-premise focused. "They are great in a Bloody Mary." THOUGHTFUL ADDITIONS During the heyday of proliferation, it seemed there was a new SHAW-ROSS.COM SHAW-ROSS INTERNATIONAL IMPORTERS, LLC. MIRAMAR, FLORIDA • DRINK RESPONSIBLY. CONGRATULATIONS! From the Shaw-Ross Family ANDREW DELONEY NABCA CHAIRMAN Shaw-RossStateWaysMagazine2017.indd 1 5/4/17 5:18 PM