We’ve been mixing alcohol with Coke for quite some time now, but Coca-Cola is about to make it official.
This boozy version of Coke is the first of its kind in the company’s history. But alas, it’s highly likely that the drink will only be available in Japan. “We haven’t experimented in the low alcohol category before, but it’s an example of how we continue to explore opportunities outside our core areas,” said Coca-Cola Japan president Jorge Garduño on the company blog.
If you’re not familiar with chūhai, it’s basically a canned, ready-to-drink beverage that’s made with shōchū, carbonated water, and lemon. And that’s what the new Coke will be as soon as it hits production. “It makes sense to give this a try in our market,” Garduño said. “While many markets are becoming more like Japan, I think the culture here is still very unique and special, so many products that are born here will stay here.” Touche.
Given Japan’s alcohol taxation system (alcoholic drinks enjoy lower taxes there as long as they don’t exceed nine percent alcohol) and our Sin Tax Reform Law, I think we should be contented with making our own chūhai Coke—for now.
In other news, would you try Coca-Cola with coffee?
Header courtesy of Omnifoods
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