- MSNBC/AP, Friday, January 26, 2007 12:45 PM
Anheuser-Busch is diversifying its suds portfolio with a line of malt liquor called Spykes. Flavors include Hot Chocolate, Hot Melons, Spicy Mango and Spicy Lime. The "spicy" refers to a slight,
jalapeno-like burn on the finish.
Packaged in 2-ounce bottles, Spykes has 12% alcohol content and is slightly caffeinated for an added kick. It can be mixed with just about anything,
or taken as a shot.
The brewer started test marketing Spykes in stores about a year ago, and in bars and restaurants within the last four months, according to Pat McGauley,
Anheuser-Busch's vice president of product innovation. The strategy has been to build the brand slowly, by word of mouth, on the local retail level first.
A-B "is trying to make a play in
the distilled-spirits arena, which appeals to young adults, and to women, who often do not favor the taste of beer," says Benj Steinman of Beer Marketer's Insights.
advertisement
advertisement
Read the whole story at MSNBC/AP »