Canadians who’ve been looking for a way to reduce their alcohol consumption this summer without having to sacrifice the enjoyment of sipping refreshing cocktails in the sun now have a new option.
This past December, Canadian start-up company, FLUID Assets Inc. launched a new line of low-alcohol, low-calorie gin and vodka that is now available across Canada.
Both 18.8 Vodka and 18.8 Gin, as the names suggest, weigh in at precisely 18.8 percent ABV and contain less than half the calories present in most comparable offerings on the market.
“We worked to create great tasting low-alcohol and low-calorie vodka and gin products that would be at the forefront of the health-conscious move to lower-alcohol spirits and the attitude shift towards socially responsible consumption. 18.8 really is the first of its kind in Canada, there is nothing else like it on the shelves,” said Chris Lund, chief creative officer of FLUID Assets Inc. “Our goal is to give people a choice to participate in occasions they otherwise would not have, with a low-alcohol spirit.”
Hand-crafted in small batches out of Ontario’s Niagara region, 18.8 Vodka offers a subtle hint of vanilla and a smooth finish, while the 18.8 Gin features notes of juniper and elderflower with a hint of spice and citrus.
This week, 18.8 will be popping up at Toronto’s Stackt market from now until September 27. Guests will be treated to an array of 18.8 cocktail creations from Robin Wynne of Miss Things paired with dishes created by Stackt’s resident chef Trevor Lui in one of two experiential getaway themes (cottage or beach).
18.8 Vodka is currently available at select liquor stores in Manitoba, Ontario, Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia. Pricing varies by province, ranging from $24.99 to $27.75 for a 750mL bottle. 18.8 Gin is available at select LCBO stores across Ontario and retails for $29.95 for a 750mL bottle.
Reservations for the pop-up can be made via Open Table on the Stackt market website.
