Halewood aims to ‘disrupt’ tonic category with new line

May 23, 2017by Amy Hopkins

UK-based drinks group Halewood Wines & Spirits has moved into the premium tonic category with the launch of its new Lamb & Watt range.

The range is made using Halewood’s Willow Water sourced from the Lake District, organic blue agave syrup, and other natural ingredients such as quinine. Described as “low calorie”, the tonic brand's line currently consists of one Original variant and three flavours: Cucumber, Basil and Hibiscus. The brand is inspired by 19th century syrup and cordial makers, Lamb and Watt. The individual variants within the range have been crafted to pair with a range of white and dark spirits. “The tonic category is in growth as consumers are looking for high quality mixers to complement their premium spirit choices,” said Leanne Ware, brand manager at Halewood Wines & Spirits. “In response to this growth, we have created Lamb & Watt partly to complement our own expanding premium spirits offering but also to make our mark on the premium tonic category. “We predict this brand will be a disrupter for the current booming tonic category, and will offer bartenders a refreshing point of difference to enhance the enjoyment of a variety of premium spirits, as well as offering an alternative to a non-alcoholic tipple.” Lamb & Watt tonics are packaged in a 200ml bottle, and are now available in the UK on-trade. Earlier this year, Halewood Wines & Spirits secured a £50 million (US$64.9m) loan to support its portfolio growth and acquisition strategy.