In the past year, kombucha drinks have emerged in the retail beverage scene in carbonated soft drink, energy drink and ready-to-drink iced tea formats. However, Goose Island’s Fleur marks kombucha’s entrance into the alcoholic beverage category. The Belgian-style pale ale is blended with hibiscus and kombucha tea, is rose-colored and has an aroma of strawberries and hibiscus flowers. The beer’s flavor balance starts with a hint of sweet, ripe berry and finishes tart. The package signals this is a premium beer, with a simple white label adorned with an elegant flower. Goose Island Fleur is the latest addition to the company’s range of premium, Belgium-style ales. It certainly may appeal to beer enthusiasts, and consumers interested in the health benefits of kombucha could be drawn to this unique product.

Information in this column is from the Global New Products Database, the premier source of global product intelligence, published by Mintel International Group; 351 W. Hubbard, 8th Floor; Chicago, IL 60610; call: 312-932-0600; fax: 312-932-0474; or e-mail atillman@mintel.com.pf