• by Teresa Buyikian , September 13, 2024

Espresso Martinis are definitely having a moment. According to a recent report by Glipse, online searches for the caffeinated libation rose 29% YOY just this past August.

But the real growth is in the ready to drink (RTD)  espresso martini category.  According to Bevnet, “espresso martini RTDs were up 252% in dollar sales” at the end of 2023 over the same period the year before.

Soon consumers will have a new RTD Espresso Martini option. TV personality Nigel Barker, also host of the "Shaken & Stirred" podcast, along with fellow beverage industry veteran Philippe Roederer, have launched spirits purveyor The Barker Company. Its first product: what it calls RTD “Bartender Quality” Espresso Martinis.

The new bottled martini is a vegan blend of Colombian espresso, six times distilled vodka, and other ingredients. The resulting drink comes in at 20% ABV, definitely securing its place in the cocktail section vs. lighter RTD option such as spiked seltzers, which are typically about 4% ABV.

Later this year The Barker Company is slated to introduce “the world's first Cappuccino Martini,” described as a “gluten-free creation that combines the velvety texture of creamy undertones and tantalizing coffee taste of a cappuccino with the sophistication of a martini.”

"Our Espresso and Cappuccino Martinis are the culmination of years of experimentation and a desire to share our love for great cocktails, catering to the ever-growing demand for a high standard cocktail experience at home,” said Barker in the announcement.

The brand is marketing the Espresso Martini on its social platforms such as Instagram and Facebook.

The Espresso Martini began its national launch in grocery and liquor stores in four states including New York and Texas, to be followed by Colorado, Michigan and Tennessee in October. The beverage is available in 200ML canned version for $4.99, and in various different bottle formats: 375ML for $15.99, 700ML for $27.99 or in a 1.75L size for $45.99.