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Summer is coming and with it comes refreshing thirst-quenchers. Whether you are sitting on a sunny terrace, relaxing in the garden or having an aperitif on your rooftop, this summer is all about taste, style and conscious choices. According to drinks expert Albert from Mister Cocktail, there are clear movements to be seen.
"Thus, we crave more experience in our glass, but also more balance. Quality over quantity and that is allowed to stand out visually. Alcohol-free options are no longer an alternative, but a full part of the experience. At the same time, we see refinement in the cocktail world, with minimalist presentations and age-old techniques making a comeback. Drinks with character, but without fuss."
From hardlemonades to quirky mixes, and from 100% agave spirits to fizzy sodas and wines from special regions as well as tea without alcohol or sugar, these trends define what we will be drinking in 2025.Pleased and thirsty as we are, we highlight some of them in this Special. But we also dwell on the type of glass, because presentation also determines what we drink this summer.
Have fun and inspiration with this summer drink special!
With its origins in Bergen op Zoom in the Netherlands and based in Meer in Belgium since 2008, Scheldebrouwerij has been brewing beers with character since the 1990s. The name refers to the river Scheldt that connects both countries, as do their flavourful beers. At Scheldebrouwerij, they never go to extremes. They are known for the balance between tradition and innovation, and you can taste it in every glass. Classic flavours with a touch of modernity, and with a wide palette of nine regular beers, a wide audience of beer lovers is reached. A suitable beer for every season and every thirst. In 2023, their Zeezuiper was voted best Belgian tripel and in 2022 the Strandgaper was already voted best golden ale/fresh blonde.
Plaice (Non Alc. Blonde 0.4%)
Plaice is an alcohol-free, multigrain thirst quencher. Brewed completely naturally without the process of dealcoholisation with a fresh tropical aroma and a full-bodied flavour profile. Flat-out blissful!
Crab (IPA 5.5%)
Crab is a thunderous thirst quencher that just won't bore. A recalcitrant citrus bomb that prefers to go sideways. A classic IPA for a wide audience.
Zeezuiper (Belgian Tripel 8%)
Zeezuiper is a fresh dry giant that drinks away insidiously well. For 30 years, this tripel has been our rock and textbook example of our 'beer in balance', of nothing too much and nothing too little.
Beach Gaper (Fresh Blonde 6.2%)
Beach Gaper is the beerification of a day at the beach. Fruity, sunny and sultry with a tight finish and subtle bitterness. A drinkable thirst-quencher with a distinct character.
Availability: at many wholesalers and drinks retailers in the Netherlands and Belgium, directly and also online for individuals.
Website: https://scheldebrouwerij.com/
Kaiken Wines: The spirit of the Andes in every glass
Kaiken Wines brings the power and elegance of the Andes to life in an extraordinary collection of Argentine wines. Founded by Chilean pioneer Aurelio Montes, the winery connects the best of Chile and Argentina and draws inspiration from the 'caiquén' - the wild goose that effortlessly crosses the Andes. Adventure, freedom and the bringing together of two worlds are at the heart of Kaiken. Since 2002, Kaiken has been creating wines in Mendoza and Salta that excel in character, finesse and respect for the unique terroir.
The vineyards are situated at altitudes between 950 and 1,260 metres and are partly cultivated biodynamically. Old vines of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon grow here, producing powerful, refined wines with a distinct Argentine character.
Kaiken is known for its elegant, European style, with quality and sustainability at its core. Its flagship wine, the Kaiken MAI Malbec, comes from over 100-year-old vines. In addition, Kaiken surprises with fresh white wines, rosés and sparkling varieties - all wines that reflect the character of the Andes.
With a modern vision, a historic 1920s wine cellar and an award-winning restaurant led by chef Francis Mallmann, Kaiken is the destination for wine lovers seeking authenticity, innovation and the true taste of the Andes.
Availability: https://thuisgenietenmetwijn.nl/
Website: https://www.kaikenwines.com/
Montes Wines from Chile is known worldwide for its uncompromising quality and innovative approach. Like Kaiken, it is an Andean wine. Since its inception, Montes has played an important role in putting Chilean winemaking on the map, with wines that excel not only in flavour, but also in sustainability and forward-thinking. From the Colchagua Valley, Montes exports its full range to five continents, driven by three core values: curiosity, respect and consistency. Curiosity constantly stimulates innovation and a pioneering spirit that leads to new wine techniques and surprising blends. Respect is reflected in care for the environment, employees and the local community, with an eye on future generations. Consistency means that Montes not only makes wines for the present, but builds a lasting legacy of quality and reliability. The result is a wide range of wines that perfectly reflect the diversity and strength of Chile, from elegant reds to crisp whites and sparkling varieties. Montes Wines continues to push boundaries with a long-term vision and a passion for creating wines that are appreciated worldwide.
Availability: https://thuisgenietenmetwijn.nl/
Website: https://www.monteswines.com/
Ultimate Provence embodies the essence of French Provence in an elegant glass of rosé. Protected by the Massif des Maures, the grapes grow in ideal conditions, resulting in a rosé with a refined, fruity flavour and a characteristic pale colour. The wine, produced under the guidance of master vinologist Alexis Cornu, stands out for its perfect balance and a timeless bottle design that should be seen. With the introduction of Eau de Provence, inspired by the perfume industry, the range expands with another premium rosé that seduces the senses. These exclusive wines, imported by Delta Wines, are not only favourites in the international hospitality industry from Marbella to Sydney, but also find their way to Dutch tables where style and quality are valued.
Availability: www.voordeelwijnen.nl
Website: https://www.ultimateprovence.com/en/
A refreshing non-alcoholic drink for any festive moment (without the hangover)
Established (Est.) was founded in Amsterdam in 2023 by a group of friends - a mix of sommeliers, musicians and creatives - who share a passion for unforgettable nights and mornings without hangovers. For years, they had been looking for a sophisticated, tasty and healthy alternative to alcoholic drinks. Often disappointed. because culinary experiences were paired (and sometimes even ruined) by imitation wine and sweet soft drinks. In the absence of a great alternative, they decided to 'brew' their own drinks , one that has everything except alcohol. After a year of experimenting with different compositions and recipes, Established launched its first flavour, Magnolia, in 2023. Production is artisanal and local. Everything is made by hand in Amsterdam, in small batches of 2,000 bottles. The two green teas are hand washed and cold brewed. No extracts, no E-numbers, just pure tea. The Sparkling tea contains Sencha from Japan and the Chinese tea variety Gunpowder from China, with additions of magnolia, juniper berries and vervein. This creates a complex, deep and dry taste. And it contains hardly any sugar. With non-alcoholic one often expects something sweet, Established seeks precisely that elegance and complexity you also find in good wines. And is characterised by versatility in pairing possibilities with Asian cuisine, seafood and desserts.
Established has two more flavours in store for the next five years. The second flavour Honeybush is likely to be launched this summer. A nice combination of rooibos, lavender and spices. Eucalyptus is expected to be the third flavour. This one will surprisingly start having coffee as an ingredient. There are also plans to offer Established as a vintage bottle. Because like wine, tea evolves, only without the alcohol formation. The top segment of the hospitality industry responds well to the taste, look of the bottle and overall experience. Established, everything but alcohol.
Availability: via de Bruijn in Wines, Hanos Amsterdam and VHC boys
Website: https://establishedsparklingtea.com/
Puklavec & Friends' Sauvignon Blanc & Pinot Grigio is a fresh, expressive white wine from Slovenia.
This blend combines the lively acidity and citrus aromas of Sauvignon Blanc with the soft, slightly spicy notes of Pinot Grigio. In the glass, the wine stands out for its bright, pale yellow colour with green hues. The aroma is pronounced, with scents of grapefruit, lime and peach, complemented by floral and subtle herbal accents. The palate is invigorating and juicy, with a good balance between freshness and a soft texture, making for an accessible and enjoyable drinking experience. This wine is versatile and goes well with a variety of dishes, such as light salads, fish, seafood and mild cheeses. The wine also comes into its own as an aperitif. Puklavec & Friends' Sauvignon Blanc & Pinot Grigio reflects the winery's modern style: fresh, fruity and accessible, while respecting tradition and the unique character of the Podravje region. Puklavec Family Wines is known for its sustainable practices and attention to quality, striving for balanced and healthy vineyards.
Availability: Wholesale and supermarket
Website: https://puklavecandfriends.com/
GiG Drinks is a Dutch brand focusing on refreshing, light-alcoholic drinks such as Hard Seltzers, Hard Lemonades and Hard Iced Teas. The drinks are low in sugar and calories, lightly effervescent and contain natural fruit flavours. GiG offers several flavours, including Berry Beat, Passionfruit Funk, Grapefruit Melody and Cherry Symphony. There are also variants such as Hard Lemonade and Hard Iced Tea Green, each with their own distinctive flavour. All products are packaged in cans, making them easy to carry and serve on a variety of occasions, such as beach days, barbecues, parties or festivals.
GiG targets consumers looking for a light, refreshing alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages. The range meets the growing demand for drinks with less sugar and calories, without compromising on taste or convenience. The drinks are suitable for drinking during hot summer days, on the terrace, with the barbecue or at a party. GiG Drinks thus offers an accessible choice for those who want to enjoy a fresh, light drink at any time.
Availability: retail, at wholesalers, at festivals and in the hospitality industry
Website: https://www.drinkgig.com/
Tuttavia Spritz is a contemporary beverage concept focusing on refreshing, light-alcoholic canned wines inspired by Italian aperitif culture. The drinks are made from authentic Italian wine, with a lighter and naturally sweet twist. Tuttavia offers several flavours, including Peach Moscato, Blueberry Moscato and Orange Spritz - each with their own character and vibe. Combining effortless style with an accessible taste experience, the drinks are perfect for diverse moments such as beach days, sunsets or impromptu get-togethers. Thanks to the handy can format, they are ideal for taking to parties, picnics or festivals. Produced in collaboration with the renowned Piedmontese cooperative Araldica Vini, Tuttavia uses the same high-quality techniques as Moscato d'Asti and Brachetto d'Acqui. This creates an innovative wine experience that is low in alcohol but rich in experience - ideal for a new generation of wine lovers.
Availability: https://www.jumbo.com/
Website: https://boutinot.com/ranges/tuttavia/
E.V.I. beer was developed by Scheldebrouwerij in collaboration with MissPublicity. In honour of the 18e anniversary of our PR agency in 2021, we had our 'own' beer brewed. And played right into the trend of personalised drinks. E.V.I. is a fresh Belgian wheat beer with a touch of citrus and a spicy aroma. Two batches of the personalised speciality beer have since been brewed. The distinctive pink label was designed by graffiti artist Marcel Labrie. Due to its success, the beer goes back into production every spring and continues to do well on the terrace and at our own party, where we still like to toast with E.V.I.
Availability: E.V.I. is sold at various liquor stores in Rotterdam, catering establishments and in particular Spaghetteria where the Homemade limoncello comes from
Website: https://pressroom.misspublicity.nl/pr-bureau-misspublicity-lanceert-tweede-batch-evi-bier/
A special drink naturally belongs in a beautiful glass! ONIS' Bloom glasses, produced in the Netherlands, combine style and functionality and are designed for lovers of elegant simplicity. Each glass in the Bloom series has soft, flowing lines from top to bottom, making every drink - from a classic cocktail to a refreshing glass of water or iced tea - a special moment. Thanks to the distinctive tulip shape, the glasses sit comfortably in the hand and ensure optimal drinking comfort. With their timeless look and versatility, the Bloom glasses are a stylish addition to any table setting, contributing both visually and practically to a contemporary drinking experience.
Availability: Wholesale
Website: https://onis.eu/pages/our-glassware
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