Proximo Spirits launches 1800 Tequila Triple Cask in travel retail

Proximo Spirits has unveiled its first global travel retail exclusive for the 1800 Tequila brand, launching 1800 Tequila Triple Cask Añejo with a high-profile activation at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

The rollout began in February 2026 with DFS Group at Terminal 4, followed by a second phase with iShoppes at Terminal 1 from April to June, as part of a broader Americas activation programme.

Designed to bring the product’s maturation story to life, the campaign features immersive retail theatre inspired by the three types of casks used in the ageing process – French oak, American oak and Cabernet Sauvignon wine barrels. Sampling stations hosted by brand ambassadors invite travellers to explore the expression, while bold visual elements reinforce the brand’s craftsmanship credentials.

Crafted from 100% blue agave grown on the Beckmann family estate in Jalisco, Mexico, 1800 Triple Cask Añejo is matured in three distinct barrels, delivering a layered profile combining wood, caramel and dark fruit notes with a smooth, balanced finish. Bottled at 40% ABV in a one-litre format, the expression has been developed exclusively for the travel retail channel.

The launch forms part of a wider global activation strategy spanning the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Following its debut in New York, the campaign has extended to airports in Panama and Punta Cana, with further activations planned across key hubs including Frankfurt and Munich in partnership with Gebr. Heinemann.

Commenting on the launch, Roy Summers, Head of Global Travel Retail at Proximo Spirits, said: “As the tequila category continues to premiumise, travellers are increasingly seeking authentic, high-end expressions designed to be savoured and gifted. 1800 Triple Cask delivers an exceptional liquid and is perfectly positioned to introduce travellers to more aged, ultra-premium tequila expressions.

“We are delighted to partner with valued customers around the world to showcase 1800 Tequila’s first travel retail exclusive and engage travellers globally.”

The activation underscores Proximo Spirits’ focus on premiumisation and experiential retail, using storytelling and immersive design to elevate engagement and drive discovery within the growing tequila category.

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Suntory rolls out Laphroaig 12-Year-Old TREX to wider travel retail channel

Suntory Laphroaig 12YO TREX — Image Credit: Suntory Global Spirits

Suntory Global Spirits is extending distribution for its travel retail exclusive whisky Laphroaig 12-Year-Old, which was initially introduced last year exclusively through Gebr. Heinemann’s travel retail network.

The phased release to major international airport hubs begins this month in Paris, followed by Taipei and Beijing in April. The expansion continues through May in Seoul, Delhi and Mumbai.

The debut with Gebr. Heinemann featured dedicated tasting bars to drive traveller engagement. According to Suntory, this focus on direct sampling proved highly effective in turning trial into purchase, confirming the strong appeal of the release among travelling whisky drinkers.

Dedicated experiential activation spaces with custom tasting bars will also support the roll-out this year, alongside branded keychain and gifting bag GWPs.

Laphroaig 12-Year-Old is matured in carefully selected American oak ex-bourbon barrels and bottled without chill filtration at 46% ABV to retain its full natural aroma.

Suntory Global Spirits General Manager GTR Europe and Americas Gareth Jones commented: “Travel retail is a vital channel for Laphroaig, allowing us to connect with whisky enthusiasts worldwide and when they’re open to discovery and experimentation.

“Following the 12-Year-Old’s hugely successful debut last year, we believe this remarkable new age statement will continue to have strong appeal with travelling consumers across international hubs. Combining activations with tastings is key for loyal fans and curious newcomers to experience Laphroaig’s iconically bold, smoky taste that makes it unforgettable.”

Mionetto launches ready-to-serve Orange Spritz Aperitivo

Mionetto is expanding into the ready-to-serve category with the launch of its Orange Spritz Aperitivo RTS, tapping into the continued global growth of the aperitivo trend.

Rolling out internationally from April 2026, the new product combines Mionetto’s sparkling wine expertise with orange and botanical notes, offering a convenient, pre-mixed spritz designed for on-the-go consumption and easy serving.

Positioned around simplicity and lifestyle appeal, the “pop, pour and cheers” concept reflects rising demand for premium ready-to-drink options that deliver both quality and convenience – particularly relevant in travel retail and impulse-driven environments.

The range includes both alcoholic (5.9% ABV) and alcohol-free variants, broadening its appeal to a wider audience, and is available in two formats: a standard 0.75L bottle and a smaller 0.2L on-the-go size.

Made with 100% natural flavours, the Orange Spritz Aperitivo blends Prosecco with vibrant citrus and botanicals, while the packaging reflects Mionetto’s signature “Orange Soul” identity, designed to stand out on shelf and reinforce its Italian heritage.

The launch will begin in key European markets including Germany, Poland, Austria, the Baltic countries and the Czech Republic, supported by marketing and trade activations.

With the aperitivo category continuing to gain momentum globally, the introduction of a ready-to-serve format marks a strategic move by Mionetto to capture new consumption occasions and strengthen its presence in fast-growing convenience-led segments.

Avolta spices up its liquor offer with Absolut Tabasco partnership

Absolut Tabasco, Avolta — Image Credit: Grant Walker/Absolut

Pernod Ricard’s biggest launch in global travel retail (GTR) this year – Absolut Tabasco – is in the midst of a major rollout with the world’s biggest travel retailer, Avolta, as it ambitiously targets channel sales of 180,000 bottles of the 38% ABV product in its first year.

The new chilli pepper-flavoured vodka was first launched into the GTR channel in January at Barcelona Airport, and is now in the process of a phased distribution across more than 50 markets worldwide. The UK media launch took place last night (Thursday) at One Club Row in Shoreditch, London, a Grade II-listed Victorian building, and now restaurant, where the new line was served as part of the bistro menu.

Cocktails, particularly Bloody Marys, are a strong communications focus for the spicy product, which fuses Absolut’s smooth Swedish vodka taste with the unique chilli, pepper and vinegar notes that Louisiana-born Tabasco is world-famous for.

In travel retail, signature serves will be a key element of the experience for passengers. Through the partnership with Avolta, Absolut Tabasco will gain strong visibility across 16 airports through a dynamic mix of high-profile promotions, tasting bars, cross-category collaborations, and digital media.

There will also be exclusive benefits for Club Avolta members whose numbers have swelled to more than 16 million worldwide in its first year, and a transaction every two seconds, according to CEO Xavier Rossinyol.

Pernod Ricard, Absolut Tabasco, Avolta — Image Credit: Grant Walker/Absolut

The flavoured vodka market heats up

Flavoured vodkas are not new in the drinks market – this is Absolut’s 14th – so innovation through a partnership with a distinctive brand like Tabasco is what might make the difference in a competitive market. According to global drinks analyst, IWSR, innovation in all its forms delivered 55% of the $231bn total beverage alcohol (TBA) value, added over the past decade.

IWSR said: “The number of innovations launched each year has continued to rise, expanding at a CAGR of +5% over the same timescale, spearheaded by the dynamic ready-to-drink category, but with spirits and beer also highly involved.”

The analyst cautioned that brand owners “need to innovate judiciously, focusing on new products that deliver incremental growth” rather than cannibalising existing lines. “In a fast-moving market, they should also carefully examine emerging trends or flavours to pinpoint which will have true staying power,” added IWSR.

In researching and launching Absolut Tabasco, Pernod Ricard may have found a novel niche in which to build GTR incrementally, with a flavour profile and the double-brand heft that will resonate with travelling consumers.

Penfolds Bin 389 Designed by Troye Sivan makes GTR debut at SYD

Penfolds has announced Australian singer-songwriter and actor Troye Sivan as its new Creative Partner, with a multi-year collaboration that is making its global travel retail debut at exclusively at Sydney Airport, in partnership with Heinemann Tax & Duty Free.

Bin 389 Designed by Troye Sivan comprises two offerings: a limited-edition 750ml gift box and a 1.5L magnum art piece, both showcasing wine from the 2023 vintage.

These can be discovered in the channel via immersive pop-up activations in Heinemann’s main Terminal 1 International Departures store, as well as the retailer’s luxury streetwear store Gatezero at Sydney Airport.

“The launch of Penfolds Bin 389 Designed by Troye Sivan at Sydney Airport brings together three Australian icons to connect travellers with new moments of conviviality,” said Michael Jackson, Global Director – Global Travel at Penfolds.

“The collaboration sees Troye Sivan’s curiosity and creativity meet Penfolds timeless craft, transforming travel moments into cultural milestones for global travellers.

“Alongside Heinemann, we invite discerning travellers to own a piece of this extraordinary partnership, where luxury wine evolves into personal storytelling and unforgettable journeys.”

Each 750ml bottle (RRP AuS$120) is hand wrapped in tissue paper printed with one of 20 images selected from Troye’s personal camera roll – each image is a moment of inspiration and connection to be collected and treasured.

The magnum edition, handcrafted by South Korean artist Rahee Yoon, is limited to just 20 pieces, making it an exceptionally rare collector’s item, available by expression of interest only.

Beyond the striking translucent red-and-white designs, the wine is said to reflect Troye’s ‘expressive, approachable character and casual elegance’.

The collaboration’s GTR debut location marks the second time that the brand has secured a high-profile place in the iconic fashion zone.

The eye-catching spaces showcase photos of Troye Sivan alongside video footage of the collaboration.

Shoppers can discover the 750ml gift boxes alongside two of the ultra-rare 1.5L magnums, each accompanied by Troye’s signed project note, unique perforated image, branded assembly gloves, and Rahee Yoon’s custom acrylic housing.

“Prestige shopping at Sydney Airport has been elevated with the Penfolds Bin 389 Designed by Troye Sivan launch, perfectly capturing the pulse of the modern, creative, and inclusive culture of Australia,” said Ranjith Menon, Regional Purchasing Director at Heinemann Asia Pacific.

“Spanning our premium wines and spirits offering and the fashion-forward Gatezero concept, the collaboration breaks new ground for our prestige wine offering and our longstanding partnership with Penfolds.

“We are proud to offer this world-first partnership and the exclusive magnum drop to our discerning travellers seeking rare and culturally charged experiences.”

Commented Sivan: “This partnership with Penfolds is a dream creative dialogue for me. Penfolds and I share a passion for culture and creating moments that matter. Together, we aspire to produce catalysts for connection.”

Bin 389 Designed by Troye Sivan is available globally from March 2026 via luxury retail, global travel and direct-to-consumer channels.

Further collaborations between Penfolds and Troye Sivan will be announced throughout 2026.

Tomatin refreshes packaging across core and travel retail range

Tomatin refreshes packaging across travel retail range — Image Credit: Tomatin

Highland distillery Tomatin has unveiled a new packaging design across its core range of single malts, with the update extending to global travel retail expressions as part of a phased rollout throughout 2026.

The redesign places a renewed focus on the brand’s cask expertise, highlighting Tomatin’s long-standing commitment to wood management as a defining element of its whisky-making credentials. The distillery is one of the few in Scotland to operate its own on-site cooperage, reinforcing its emphasis on quality and control throughout the maturation process.

At the centre of the new look is a premium presentation box featuring a wood-grain motif inspired by natural tree rings, symbolising the role of oak casks in shaping the character of each expression. The updated design replaces the brand’s previous landscape-led visuals with a more contemporary aesthetic aimed at improving shelf standout in increasingly competitive retail environments.

Each whisky in the range is now differentiated through bold colourways, including deep indigo, forest green, scarlet red and teal, while updated labels introduce clearer product naming and simplified information to better communicate flavour profiles and positioning to consumers.

The rollout has begun with Tomatin Legacy and Tomatin 12 Year Old Triple Cask – renamed from Tomatin 12 Year Old – with the remainder of the core range set to follow. The previously introduced scarlet red packaging for Tomatin 12 Year Old Sherry Cask will also adopt the enhanced label design.

Importantly for the channel, the refreshed visual identity will extend to global travel retail expressions, including Tomatin 8 Year Old and Tomatin 13 Year Old, which will transition to the updated packaging during 2026.

The update forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen the brand’s visibility and positioning across international markets, including travel retail, where packaging plays a critical role in driving engagement and conversion.

Jennifer Masson, Head of Marketing at Tomatin, said: “This bold new packaging reflects what we do best at Tomatin – exceptional cask management, craftsmanship and attention to detail. It aligns our visual identity with consumer expectations in modern retail and on-trade settings and gives our whiskies greater presence in global markets. Our focus remains unchanged – creating remarkable single malts at excellent value for whisky lovers around the world.”

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Haleybrooke International announces partnership with Terroirs Distillers

Haleybrooke Terroirs Distillers Highland Queen whisky — Image Credit: Haleybrooke International

Haleybrooke International has reached an agreement with Terroirs Distillers Artisanal Brands to represent Tullibardine, Highland Queen and Ballina Irish single malt in US and Canadian duty free and travel retail.

Terroirs Distillers is the spirits arm of Picard Vins & Spiritueux. Created in 2011 and now under the stewardship of the third generation of the Picard family, the company boasts an extensive portfolio of brands and distilleries.

Established in 1947, Tullibardine is a multi-award-winning Highland Single Malt with complete control from grain to glass. It is one of the few Scottish distilleries with an onsite cooperage and bottling facility.

Founded in 1893, Highland Queen, the blend of Tullibardine, was inspired by Mary Queen of Scots. Crafted at the Tullibardine distillery, it features the same classic blend recipe that has been used for over 50 years.

Ballina Irish single malt is crafted on the banks of the River Moy on Ireland’s west coast. It was recently awarded a best in category medal for Irish Single Malt Small Batch 12 Years and under in the World Whiskies Awards 2026.

Haleybrooke Terroirs Distillers Tullibardine — Image Credit: Haleybrooke International

Haleybrooke International President Patrick Nilson welcomed the new additions to the Haleybrooke portfolio, highlighting the significance of the whisky category in duty free – and the importance of offering brands that resonate with travel retail consumers.

All three whiskies will be showcased and available to sample on the Haleybrooke International stand (Booth 401) at the upcoming IAADFS Summit of the Americas in Orlando.

Henkell Freixenet gets set to sparkle at the 2026 Summit of the Americas

Henkell Freixenet portfolio SOTA 2026 — Image Credit: Henkell Freixenet

Sparkling wine specialist Henkell Freixenet will showcase its portfolio of cava, sparkling wine, prosecco, crémant and champagne brands – as well as its range of wines and spirits – at the upcoming 2026 Summit of the Americas (Stand 513).

The company’s Freixenet and Mionetto brands will be a key focus for the year ahead, as the company targets growth across the Americas region.

“We are satisfied with our development last year in the Americas,” noted Freixenet Head of Sales Global Travel Retail Ramon Olivé.

“Freixenet continues to strengthen its position as a leading global brand, and this year we will further elevate its presence with the launch of Freixenet Solare, a new addition and entry into the spirits category that broadens the portfolio and opens the door to new consumption occasions.

“Our Mionetto brand maintains its strong momentum, delivering continuous growth, also due to the aperitivo trend. In line with this expansion, we are introducing the new 5cl aperitivo format, designed to meet the needs of key on the go channels and particularly… airlines and cruise lines.”

At the Orlando show, the Henkell Freixenet booth will feature a dedicated spritz bar, where visitors can sample the Mionetto Aperitivo Spritz and Freixenet Solare Spritz, both available in no, low and alcoholic versions.

Henkell Freixenet Solare and alcohol free — Image Credit: Henkell Freixenet

“We look forward to this new edition of the Summit of the Americas in Orlando, marking an exciting new location for the event,” added Olivé. “The Summit remains a key date in our calendar due to the strong presence and performance of our brands across the Americas region.

“It provides the ideal platform to meet with our existing business partners, share our plans for the year, present our latest innovations, and align on future priorities. The event also serves as a valuable opportunity to connect with new customers and business partners, expand into additional locations and channels, and further strengthen the presence of our brands throughout the territory.”

From a channel perspective, for Henkell Freixenet airports remain a strategic priority. In the US, the company aims to expand its footprint with Gratien Meyer crémant, while exploring additional opportunities in locations such as Lima with Freixenet and Mionetto.

The company is also targeting expansion within the cruise sector, which is experiencing significant growth. “We will be present at Food and Beverage at Sea (SeaTrade) in Miami on 15–16 April, where we will continue the conversations initiated in Orlando and further explore opportunities to expand our footprint within the cruise sector,” Olivé continued.

“This event represents a key platform for deepening our engagement with industry partners and advancing our ambitions in this rapidly growing channel.”

JP-GTR to showcase emerging American spirits brands at IAADFS

JP-GTR IAADFS Virginia Distillery Co spirits — Image Credit: JP-GTR

Spirit brand agency JP-GTR will showcase brands from Virginia Distillery Co and Grain & Barrel Spirits at the upcoming IAADFS show in Orlando.

Both companies are looking to leverage a strong domestic presence to target expansion within the travel retail channel. JP-GTR is acting as a global duty free agent, with a particular focus on Europe and the Americas.

The showcase forms part of JP-GTR’s broader strategy to introduce differentiated craft and premium American spirits into international duty free, supporting brand partners as they establish their first global listings.

Virginia Distillery Co will present its American single malt whiskies at the show, following the official recognition of the category in the US in 2025.

As the largest independent producer of American single malt whiskey in the country, the distillery’s flagship range, Courage & Conviction, offers provenance-led discovery and premium trade-up potential for international travellers.

Grain & Barrel Spirits will introduce its flagship Chicken Cock Whiskey, a brand with nearly 170 years of heritage. Established in 1856 and known as “The Famous Old Brand,” this bourbon is said to blend historic character with modern premium appeal.

JP-GTR IAADFS Chicken Cock Whiskey spirits — Image Credit: JP-GTR

Crafted from a mash bill of 70% corn, 21% rye and 9% malted barley – and aged for a minimum of four years in American white oak barrels – it delivers notes of toasted oak, butterscotch and vanilla. It is presented in a Prohibition era-inspired bottle designed to stand out on shelf.

“We are proud to bring two exciting American spirits portfolios to travel retail for the first time,” noted JP-GTR Founder Jean-Philippe Aucher. “These brands have built strong reputations domestically and are now ready for international discovery.

“The Summit of the Americas allows us to place them directly in front of key decision-makers, and we hope this will mark the beginning of meaningful distribution across the channel.”

Sky Wave accelerates global growth with GTR debut in London airports

Sky Wave Discover London GTR debut — Image Credit: The Sky Wave Distilling Company,

Oxfordshire distillery The Sky Wave Distilling Company has made its global travel retail debut in selected UK airport doors, in partnership with Lagardère Travel Retail.

Travellers can now purchase products from the Sky Wave portfolio at Heathrow, Gatwick and Luton airports, where the luxury spirits brand has been selected as a featured product within the Discover London travel retail stores.

The retail concept aims to celebrate British heritage, showcasing premium products to a global audience, while capitalising on the growing consumer demand for culturally resonant, authentic local goods.

“We are incredibly proud to see Sky Wave officially taking off at Heathrow, Gatwick and Luton,” noted Sky Wave Co-Founder Rachel Hicks.

“Global travel retail is fundamental to building premium spirits brands, like Sky Wave, on a global scale. We are now available in Japan and Europe, so this opportunity is a strategically important growth channel for us. My focus is on widening distribution in travel retail so more international travellers are introduced to our craft English distillery.”

Named Distillery of The Year 2024, Sky Wave continues to expand its reach as a premier British craft spirit. In line with the trend for more responsible consumption, the brand’s newly trademarked “Drink Better” positioning encourages consumers to savour fewer, higher-quality drinks.

Archives

Proximo Spirits launches 1800 Tequila Triple Cask in travel retail

Suntory rolls out Laphroaig 12-Year-Old TREX to wider travel retail channel

Mionetto launches ready-to-serve Orange Spritz Aperitivo

Avolta spices up its liquor offer with Absolut Tabasco partnership

The flavoured vodka market heats up

Penfolds Bin 389 Designed by Troye Sivan makes GTR debut at SYD

Tomatin refreshes packaging across core and travel retail range

Haleybrooke International announces partnership with Terroirs Distillers

Henkell Freixenet gets set to sparkle at the 2026 Summit of the Americas

JP-GTR to showcase emerging American spirits brands at IAADFS

Sky Wave accelerates global growth with GTR debut in London airports

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