Captain Morgan debuts malt-based RTDs

Diageo-owned rum brand Captain Morgan has launched a new ready-to-drink (RTD) line of ‘cocktail-inspired’ malt beverages.

The four flavours include: Pineapple Daiquiri; Strawberry Margarita; Passionfruit Hurricane; and Mango Mai Tai. None of the expressions contain rum. The brand had previously released a range of rum-based bottled cocktails and partnered with a coconut water brand. “We didn’t just want to introduce another new canned drink – we wanted to slice through the ordinary with an offering that compliments the adventurous spirit of our consumers,” said Laura Merritt, CMO at Diageo Beer Company. “Captain Morgan has always been known and loved for its bold flavour, and we're excited to shake up the category and introduce Captain Morgan Sliced to the world.” Each drink has an ABV of 5.8% and comes in packs of 12 for US$19.99. The brand has also launched Sliced Up, available in larger cans and with an ABV of 8%. Its two flavours are Long Island Iced Tea and Tropical Hurricane. Earlier this month, Diageo launched a trio of premium RTD bottled cocktails in the UK and released canned drinks from two of its vodka brands, Smirnoff and Cîroc. Last year, Captain Morgan Spiced Gold 0.0% became the first dark ‘spirit’ in Diageo’s non-alcoholic portfolio.