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The Irish Sun
a day ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Beloved 1990s alcopop makes its return to shop shelves after 20 years – and it's perfect for summer BBQs & festivals
AN iconic 2000's alcopop will make its return to shop shelves after 20 years. Reef, a fruity vodka drink loved by ravers, made it's come back last year, with bottles sold at B&M stores. 1 The drink is coming back in a new carton format But this summer the nostalgic booze group is repackaging the product to give partygoers a whole new way to enjoy the drink. The 3.4% ABV drink will be sold in a resealable carton. The group said the new carton format was "designed with socialisation in mind". Matthew Bulcroft, marketing director at Global Brands, added: "The resealable carton gives consumers more flexibility, less waste, and a better drinking experience overall. "Whether you're partying hard or chilling out, Reef's here for it." Shoppers will be able to pick up the nostalgic tipple from this month. A 15-pack of cartons will set you back £27, working out at around 55p per drink. You can also order boxes of the boozer at Most read in Money A 10-pack of the original bottled booze is still available to shop at B&M for £8.50. Its return comes as Why Guinness tastes better in Ireland Reef's lower alcohol percentage is also likely to appeal to the group, who are notorious for drinking less than older generations. Matthew added: 'Reef's return last year tapped perfectly into the nostalgia trend – and our new carton is the next exciting step. "It's about giving fans what they love, in a smarter, cooler way that fits modern life." Nostalgic drinks make a comeback And Reef is not the only nostalgic drink making a come back. Bacardi Breezers are back just in time for summer, and will be sold at £2 a bottle. Customers can enjoy two flavours, including Zesty Orange, Zingy Lime and Crispy Watermelon. Elsewhere, , Boddingtons Cask Ale is hitting taps again. First brewed in 1778, the famous ale disappeared from handpumps in 2012 but is now set to return to pubs across the North West. Manchester's oldest brewer JW Lees is to brew the cask ale close to its original home under licence from Budweiser Brewing Group. Read more on the Irish Sun Punters who have waited 13 years for a sip of the creamy ale will be able to order a pint of it in selected pubs across the Double Diamond beer also made its return to pubs last year, and it was recently revealed that it has returned to the high street, with cans of the pale ale on sale in Tesco. Why are products axed or recipes changed? ANALYSIS by chief consumer reporter James Flanders. Food and drinks makers have been known to tweak their recipes or axe items altogether. They often say that this is down to the changing tastes of customers. There are several reasons why this could be done. For example, government regulation, like the "sugar tax," forces firms to change their recipes. Some manufacturers might choose to tweak ingredients to cut costs. They may opt for a cheaper alternative, especially when costs are rising to keep prices stable. For example, Tango Cherry disappeared from shelves in 2018. It has recently returned after six years away but as a sugar-free version. Suntory tweaked the flavour of its While the amount of sugar in every bottle remains unchanged, the supplier swapped out the sweetener aspartame for sucralose.
Scottish Sun
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Iconic 2000's alcopop makes its return to shop shelves after 20 years – and it's perfect for summer BBQs & festivals
Plus, we reveal more iconic drinks making a come back BACK AGAIN Iconic 2000's alcopop makes its return to shop shelves after 20 years – and it's perfect for summer BBQs & festivals AN iconic 2000s alcopop will make its return to shop shelves after 20 years. Reef, a fruity vodka drink loved by ravers, made it's come back last year, with bottles sold at B&M stores. Advertisement 1 The drink is coming back in a new carton format But this summer the nostalgic booze group is repackaging the product to give partygoers a whole new way to enjoy the drink. The 3.4% ABV drink will be sold in a resealable carton. The group said the new carton format was "designed with socialisation in mind". Matthew Bulcroft, marketing director at Global Brands, added: "The resealable carton gives consumers more flexibility, less waste, and a better drinking experience overall. Advertisement "Whether you're partying hard or chilling out, Reef's here for it." Shoppers will be able to pick up the nostalgic tipple from this month. A 15-pack of cartons will set you back £27, working out at around 55p per drink. You can also order boxes of the boozer at Advertisement A 10-pack of the original bottled booze is still available to shop at B&M for £8.50. Its return comes as Gen Z are looking to revive fashion and trends once popular in the 2000s. Why Guinness tastes better in Ireland Reef's lower alcohol percentage is also likely to appeal to the group, who are notorious for drinking less than older generations. Matthew added: 'Reef's return last year tapped perfectly into the nostalgia trend – and our new carton is the next exciting step. Advertisement "It's about giving fans what they love, in a smarter, cooler way that fits modern life." Nostalgic drinks make a comeback And Reef is not the only nostalgic drink making a come back. Bacardi Breezers are back just in time for summer, and will be sold at £2 a bottle. Customers can enjoy two flavours, including Zesty Orange, Zingy Lime and Crispy Watermelon. Advertisement Elsewhere, the legendary "Cream of Manchester", Boddingtons Cask Ale is hitting taps again. First brewed in 1778, the famous ale disappeared from handpumps in 2012 but is now set to return to pubs across the North West. Manchester's oldest brewer JW Lees is to brew the cask ale close to its original home under licence from Budweiser Brewing Group. Punters who have waited 13 years for a sip of the creamy ale will be able to order a pint of it in selected pubs across the North West from September, before it becomes more widely available. Advertisement Double Diamond beer also made its return to pubs last year, and it was recently revealed that it has returned to the high street, with cans of the pale ale on sale in Tesco.
Scottish Sun
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Iconic 90s beer RETURNS to taps after over a decade – and punters will be buzzing
The beer was renowned for its adverts which led to one TV star finding fame - do you remember them? CHEERS TO THAT! Iconic 90s beer RETURNS to taps after over a decade – and punters will be buzzing Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) AN iconic 90s beer is returning to pub taps after over a decade to the delight of punters. The legendary "Cream of Manchester", Boddingtons Cask Ale, became a symbol of Northern Pride, with the brewery famed for its memorable adverts starring Melanie Sykes. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Boddingtons Cask Ale is returning to pubs soon (Credit: JW Lees) 2 Melanie Sykes found fame starring in the iconic Boddingtons ad in the 90s Credit: Boddingtons First brewed in 1778, the famous ale disappeared from handpumps in 2012 but is now set to return to pubs across the North West. Manchester's oldest brewer JW Lees is to brew the cask ale close to its original home under licence from Budweiser Brewing Group. Punters who have waited 13 years for a sip of the creamy ale will be able to order a pint of it in selected pubs across the North West from September, before it becomes more widely available. The brewery said it would be brewed using traditional methods, but would be given a fresh twist for modern punters. The relaunched cask ale will have an ABV of 4% - slightly weaker than its original 4.1% recipe. JW Lees director William Lees-Jones said: 'When I joined JW Lees in 1994, Boddingtons was 'The Cream of Manchester' and we were in awe of their position in leading the cask beer revolution…' 'We are planning to put Boddingtons back where it rightly deserves to be, as one of the leading premium UK cask beers, particularly in our heartland of the North West. 'We also look forward to working with Budweiser Brewing Group with their portfolio of market-leading lagers and premium packaged beers in our pubs.' Boddingtons is best known for its creamy texture and the catchphrase "Do you want a flake in that?" which it adopted in its iconic 90s advertising campaign. TV presenter and Northerner Melanie Sykes first found fame starring in the ads, which originally aired in 1996, before she made the leap into presenting thanks to The Big Breakfast. Mel Sykes stars in classic Boddington's Bitter advert with athlete Ken George The star reunited with her "old muckers" in 2017 to shoot a new Boddingtons ad. While production of its cask beers stopped in 2012, cans of Boddingtons draught bitter can still be found in high street stores. As part of the beer's relaunch, JW Lees has created a new ad campaign referencing another of Boddingtons' famous slogans. A poster by the brewery readers: "By 'eck, the Cream of Manchester is back on cask" - a reference to the original "By 'eck it's gorgeous" line synonymous with Boddingtons' 90s ads. AB InBev (Budweiser Brewing Group) president Brian Perkins said "We are excited to relaunch Boddingtons Cask Ale in partnership with JW Lees, combining one of the UK's most iconic beer brands with one of its most respected brewers. "We see real growth potential for Boddingtons in the UK On Trade, and this is a great example of how strategic partnerships can unlock value for both businesses and beer lovers alike.' Other iconic beers returning to pubs The Cream of Manchester isn't the only iconic beer returning to pub taps. Double Diamond beer was among the nation's best-selling drinks from the 1950s to through to the early 1990s, before it was discontinued in 2003. It made its return to pubs last year, and it was recently revealed that it has returned to the high street, with cans of the pale ale on sale in Tesco. In other booze news, Captain Morgan announced this month it's launching a "tropical beer" for the first time. The iconic rum maker's "Muck Pit Brew" is described as a "tropical beer-inspired drink with a gently fizzy twist, combines spiced rum, hops, and vibrant Caribbean vibes." The flavours are inspired by hops, which are a common ingredient found in beer, and fermented fruits such as mango. The booze contains 4% alcohol by volume (ABV) and is available in 440ml cans. Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@ Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories
The Sun
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Iconic 90s beer RETURNS to taps after over a decade – and punters will be buzzing
AN iconic 90s beer is returning to pub taps after over a decade to the delight of punters. The legendary "Cream of Manchester", Boddingtons Cask Ale, became a symbol of Northern Pride, with the brewery famed for its memorable adverts starring Melanie Sykes. 2 First brewed in 1778, the famous ale disappeared from handpumps in 2012 but is now set to return to pubs across the North West. Manchester's oldest brewer JW Lees is to brew the cask ale close to its original home under licence from Budweiser Brewing Group. Punters who have waited 13 years for a sip of the creamy ale will be able to order a pint of it in selected pubs across the North West from September, before it becomes more widely available. The brewery said it would be brewed using traditional methods, but would be given a fresh twist for modern punters. The relaunched cask ale will have an ABV of 4% - slightly weaker than its original 4.1% recipe. JW Lees director William Lees-Jones said: 'When I joined JW Lees in 1994, Boddingtons was 'The Cream of Manchester' and we were in awe of their position in leading the cask beer revolution …' 'We are planning to put Boddingtons back where it rightly deserves to be, as one of the leading premium UK cask beers, particularly in our heartland of the North West. 'We also look forward to working with Budweiser Brewing Group with their portfolio of market-leading lagers and premium packaged beers in our pubs.' Boddingtons is best known for its creamy texture and the catchphrase "Do you want a flake in that?" which it adopted in its iconic 90s advertising campaign. TV presenter and Northerner Melanie Sykes first found fame starring in the ads, which originally aired in 1996, before she made the leap into presenting thanks to The Big Breakfast. Mel Sykes stars in classic Boddington's Bitter advert with athlete Ken George The star reunited with her "old muckers" in 2017 to shoot a new Boddingtons ad. While production of its cask beers stopped in 2012, cans of Boddingtons draught bitter can still be found in high street stores. As part of the beer's relaunch, JW Lees has created a new ad campaign referencing another of Boddingtons' famous slogans. A poster by the brewery readers: "By 'eck, the Cream of Manchester is back on cask" - a reference to the original "By 'eck it's gorgeous" line synonymous with Boddingtons' 90s ads. AB InBev (Budweiser Brewing Group) president Brian Perkins said "We are excited to relaunch Boddingtons Cask Ale in partnership with JW Lees, combining one of the UK's most iconic beer brands with one of its most respected brewers. "We see real growth potential for Boddingtons in the UK On Trade, and this is a great example of how strategic partnerships can unlock value for both businesses and beer lovers alike.' Other iconic beers returning to pubs The Cream of Manchester isn't the only iconic beer returning to pub taps. Double Diamond beer was among the nation's best-selling drinks from the 1950s to through to the early 1990s, before it was discontinued in 2003. It made its return to pubs last year, and it was recently revealed that it has returned to the high street, with cans of the pale ale on sale in Tesco. In other booze news, Captain Morgan announced this month it's launching a "tropical beer" for the first time. The iconic rum maker's "Muck Pit Brew" is described as a "tropical beer-inspired drink with a gently fizzy twist, combines spiced rum, hops, and vibrant Caribbean vibes." The flavours are inspired by hops, which are a common ingredient found in beer, and fermented fruits such as mango. The booze contains 4% alcohol by volume (ABV) and is available in 440ml cans.
BBC News
22-02-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Slaithwaite Moonraking Festival celebrates 40th anniversary
A festival which celebrates an age-old tradition of bootlegging on Yorkshire's canals is marking its 40th Moonraking Festival features a series of events inspired by tales of moonrakers – locals who smuggled alcohol in boats on the Huddersfield Narrow Canal in the 19th event was founded in 1985, and takes place every two years, but was put on hiatus between 2017-2023 due to funding issues, and then the pandemic.A week of activities culminates with a spectacular night-time parade featuring handmade paper lanterns, during which locals re-enact the moonrakers' story. In the 19th Century a series of licensing laws were introduced to control the sale and production of alcohol – especially spirits - which led to the smuggling on the canal."They smuggled it in because it was very heavily taxed in those days, and beyond the reach of ordinary people," says Kath Shackleton, one of the organisers of the Slaithwaite Festival."Back in the 1800s, we think around the time of the Napoleonic Wars, booze was hard to come by in West Yorkshire - and locals who wanted their hooch had to resort to imaginative ways of getting hold of it, and the moonrakers hid their booze in the explained how the smugglers came to be known as moonrakers."One night it was a very clear night - in the middle of the winter - and there was a bright, shining moon, and as the constabulary came by asking them what they were doing, they saw the reflection of the moon in the water and they told them that they were 'raking out' the moon."The constabulary bid them on their way and after they had gone they [the smugglers] celebrated with a good party!" Slaithwaite's creative spirit is celebrated across the festival week, with ceilidhs and art workshops, as well as the final parade which begins at 17:30 GMT on the week before the parade – which falls in half term – families create lanterns from willow branches and tissue paper which become part of the evening from Carr Lane, on the canal, a giant illuminated moon is floated along on a with rakes attempt to pull it onto the bank - 'moonraking' - before other participants, dressed as gnomes with long beards. land the moon using a lifted out, the gnomes carry the moon around the streets, leading a procession of lanterns to the top of the town. They are joined by street performers, entertainers, poets and musicians. Today the festival is funded by Kirklees Council, the National Lottery and local Shackleton said it provides a lovely opportunity to bring the young and old in the community together, describing how the parade creates "a stunning view across the village, and the lanterns all snake down the hill" in the centre of bootlegging is thankfully no longer necessary, with alcohol much easier to come by in the West Yorkshire town. Manchester brewery, JW Lees, has even named one of its craft beers, Moonraker Strong Ale, after the to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North or tell us a story you think we should be covering here.
