Coca-Cola has launched its very first Signature Mixers, specially created to pair with 'premium dark spirits'.
The brand has partnered with some of the world's best bartenders to make the special drinks.
They've experimented with more than 200 contemporary and traditional ingredients to craft the four mixers, which are Spicy Notes, Smoky Notes, Woody Notes and Herbal Notes.
The Coca-Cola Signature Mixers will be served in a Hutchinson glass bottle – a silhouette that pre-dates the iconic Contour - and one that was first used by Coca-Cola in 1894 when the product was bottled.
For extra posh points, each batch is stamped with the signature of its co-creator.
Ana Amura, senior brand manager at Coca-Cola Great Britain, said: "Coca-Cola has always had a synergy with dark spirits and classic cocktails, from the inception of the iconic Cuba Libre in the late 1900s to the popular Whiskey & Coke in the early 20 century.
"With the rise of mixed drinks, we’re excited to announce the launch of Coca-Cola Signature Mixers, a specific range uniquely created to mix with dark spirits.
“Working with an inspirational group of global mixologists to create amazing flavour combinations, we hope Coca-Cola Signature Mixers open up the world of mixology to an even wider audience.”
Here's what the options are:
Smoky Notes
Created with Max Venning from Bar Three and Three Sheets, London.
"An intensely aromatic blend, with smoky hints, this mix brings nuanced dimension to deep, spiced rums and bold, premium whiskies," says Coca Cola. "Ylang Ylang, ambrette seed and dried fruit, which inhabit the top layer, are balanced with an elegant base of warm brown spices; Peru Balsam and amber."
Spicy Notes
Created with Adriana Chia, Antigua Compania De Las Indias, Barcelona and Pippa Guy, The American Bar at the Savoy.
"With a warm introduction that gives way to a fiery finish, this Signature Mixer is a sophisticated and complex blend," Coca Cola claims. "Citrusy lime, ginger, spicy jalapeño, fragrant rosemary and aromatic jasmine combine to create a mixer with a considered balance of zest and earthy flavours that pairs beautifully with spiced rums, aged / gold tequilas and spicy or sweet whiskies."
Herbal Notes
Created with Antonio Nevares, Dr. Stravinsky, Barcelona.
Coca Cola says: "A delightfully floral, crisp and tart mix, this Signature Mixer was developed to deliver fresh and herbaceous notes for the discerning palate. Balancing refreshing notes of lemongrass with the earthy tones of dill seed and tagetes, it is an inviting mixer with a refreshing, simple profile that pairs beautifully with amber whiskies and most types of rum."
Woody Notes
Created with Alex Lawrence, former head bartender at Dandelyan, The Mondrian, London.
"Crafted from a subtle blend of earthy patchouli, citrusy yuzu and aromatic basil, this Signature Mixers has a tart, light and refreshing profile, with a hint of warmth." Coca Cola says. "These elements, expertly blended, combine to elegantly enhance the mellow wood and sweet tropical flavours of golden rums and smoky to woody whiskies."
