Absolut adds Orange Peel to shots line

Pernod Ricard-owned Absolut has added a vodka flavoured with orange peel to its shots range.

Orange Peel is the third product in the brand’s Absolut Nights shot series, following the release of Smoky Piña in March 2023 and Nordic Spice in September 2023. The expression is created with a blend of orange peels and coffee and is inspired by Chenpi, a dried orange rind with a ‘complex balance of sweet and sour notes and a spiced tangerine kick’, often used in Chinese cooking. The 35% ABV vodka is recommended served ice cold and neat, followed by an orange soda chaser or served in a shot glass rimmed with finely ground coffee, sugar and cocoa powder. The vodka comes in an orange glass bottle that ‘symbolises the neon lights that define Asia’s night-time cityscapes’. The ‘X’ symbol, which features on all bottles in the range, is said to evoke a ‘high-energy experience’. Debasree Dasgupta, vice-president of global marketing at Absolut Vodka, said: “Orange Peel joins our Absolut Nights range in igniting the premium shot scene alongside Nordic Spice and Smoky Piña. “This dynamic range is reshaping nightlife by tapping into universal, global trends for vibrant and interconnected experiences while offering local, urban-inspired flavours. “At Absolut, we thrive on the power of imagination and being bold and this new, zesty, aromatic shot drink is sure to hit the sweet spot as we aspire to transform the future of nightlife for new generations.” The expression will launch first in China at the end of the month. Louis Cheng, vice-president of marketing at Pernod Ricard China, added: “Absolut Nights Orange Peel pays homage to Chinese culture and the flavour profile is truly suited to the Asian market. “Inspired by Chenpi, which is a traditional ingredient used in Chinese cooking, desserts and candies, the addition of Orange Peel to our esteemed portfolio in China marks the next stage in the evolution of the nightlife lifestyle for the next generation, echoing our promise to redefine nightlife by aligning local culture with global trends and creating intriguing, authentic and engaging experiences.”