Kopparberg ups the ABV with Sweet Vintage expansion

Kopparberg is intensifying its focus on the high-ABV cider segment, introducing two new variants — Strawberry & Lime and Mixed Fruit — to its successful Sweet Vintage portfolio.

Both new products carry a 7% ABV and are designed to capture shifting consumer demand for bolder, higher-strength fruit cider experiences. The launch is a direct response to the success of the initial Sweet Vintage Apple and Pear offerings, which have generated $3.4 million in retail sales value (RSV) over the past year. This growth signals an opportunity for manufacturers, as the traditionally mature higher-ABV category is attracting a new demographic.

Kopparberg identified that the higher-ABV cider space, which historically appealed to older demographics, is now experiencing fresh demand driven by younger consumers seeking bolder flavour profiles. By expanding the Sweet Vintage line with its two most recognisable and popular flavour combinations (Strawberry & Lime and Mixed Fruit), Kopparberg aims to maximise category incremental growth.

Rob Salvesen, head of marketing at Kopparberg, commented on the product positioning: “Our Sweet Vintage Apple and Pear variants have been a standout success, resonating with younger consumers and bringing excitement back to higher-ABV cider. Extending this success to our most iconic flavours – Strawberry & Lime and Mixed Fruit – allows us to combine the unmistakable taste of Kopparberg with a fuller-bodied, higher-strength cider that fits perfectly with high-tempo occasions.”

This product development highlights a growing trend where manufacturers are leveraging established, high-appeal flavour profiles and integrating them into higher-strength formats to capture share during key social and high-tempo occasions. The move demonstrates how established brands can innovate by adjusting ABV and flavour concentration to enter new consumption moments.