James Bond fans are going to be a little shaken by news that their hero is adopting beer in the new Skyfall 007 film due for release later this year. Rumours abound that Bond will swap his trademark martini for a crisp cool glass of Heineken. The move is part of a deal that will see Bond star Daniel Craig in an advertisement for the beer and the Bond image appear on related packaging.
It’s set to be a big summer for beer with many brands launching new products packaged in glass – naturally! Already this year we have seen Guinness launch a new 250 ml glass bottle on the French market for its Original Guinness brand. A 660 ml version has also been launched in Africa. The glass bottle helps to preserve the beer’s powerful blend of roasted malt, caramel and coffee flavours which are balanced against the slight bitterness characteristic of the beer’s taste.
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arlsberg Group is also launching new products and new glass packaging for a range of its well-known beers. The company introduced the 1664 Millésime (or vintage) beer in 2011 with a blonde. Each year Carlsberg changes the taste. The 2012 version has been created by French chef Thomas Clouet who is attempting to reinvent the aperitif. The beer features flavours of vanilla and liquorice on the palate, and a rich aroma that is perfectly preserved in glass.
In the UK, Carlsberg is launching a new lager in the San Miguel brand which will be known as Fresca. The beer is brewed using the finest hops and barley and packaged in a 330 ml glass bottle. Fresca is designed to be enjoyed chilled, with a wedge of lime and is ideal for summer barbeques. Let’s just hope we get some warm weather so we can kick back and enjoy!
What beer will you be enjoying over the summer? Why not share your pleasure on the Friends of Glass Facebook page or tweet us @GlassFriendsEUR.