Independent Geelong distillery, Haiver Spirits, is shaking up the ready-to-drink (RTD) category for summer, with the launch of Haiver Hard Tea, one of the first brewed hard teas in Australia.
Formerly based in Western Australia, Haiver Spirits has made the move to Victoria under direction from founder and chemical engineer–turned-distiller, Matthew Anastassiou. Spotting a gap in the Australian market for a brewed hard tea, he set out to create a drink that was lightly carbonated, but didn’t compromise on flavour.
Produced in Victoria and launching nationally, Haiver Hard Tea will be initially available in Summer Peach and Tropical flavours in 330ml cans at 4.5% ABV. The release builds on Haiver’s reputation for experimentation and flavour-led products, following its celebrated use of vacuum distillation techniques in gin and vodka.
“I’ve always loved iced tea and wanted to create a boozy version that was just as refreshing but with a crafted edge,” said Anastassiou.
“Unlike what’s already available, instead of simply blending tea with spirits, I’ve brewed it on a beer base. This was an intentional move to give the product a silky, full-bodied mouthfeel that feels much closer to real iced tea – crisp and refreshing.
“Haiver has never been about doing things the conventional way. We wanted to create something that feels new but also instantly familiar. Like the iced tea you know and love – just slightly carbonated and a little boozier,” he said.
Haiver Hard Tea is now available for preorder online at haiverspirits.com.au and at select retailers for RRP $26.00 in a four-pack, with the first production run expected by mid-November.
