Ardagh Nitro Can enhances on-the-go experience of Kahlúa Espresso Martini

05 Oct 2018 --- Ardagh has announced the launch of Kahlúa Espresso Martini in Nitro Cans. The Nitro Can is the ready-to-drink (RTD) packaging solution for nitro beverages which was launched in late 2016 to capitalize on the nitro coffee trend gaining momentum in key European markets. Kahlúa uses a 250ml slim Nitro Can to provide consumers a velvety smooth Espresso Martini infused with nitrogen.

Ardagh’s Nitro Can is a unique packaging format, which delivers an unrivalled, multi-sensory experience. “It features a fixed widget charged with nitrogen, which delivers a distinct sound upon activation and generates a stunning cascading effect that ultimately tops off the beverage with a crema,” Adriana Escobar, Product Manager at Ardagh Metal Beverage, tells PackagingInsights.

“Upon activation, the nitrogen releases bubbles throughout the beverage, generating a cascading pour that ultimately tops off the beverage with a creamy, frothy head. Nitrogen provides a new experience to the beverage, it enhances the aromas and the mouth feel of the coffee,” she says.

The Nitro can is able to replicate the effect of a traditional stout faucet while upholding the integrity of the product in lieu of refrigeration.

Sophisticated drink in a sustainable “to go” format
The RTD alcoholic beverage category is experiencing consistent growth, mainly driven by premiumization and convenience. “Espresso Martini is a classic drink, known and enjoyed worldwide for decades,” says Romina Mariano, Global Brand Manager of Kahlúa.

“Infusing nitrogen into the recipe enhances the elegance of the drink and enables consumers to enjoy the velvety froth. Now you can enjoy all that pleasure wherever you are, thanks to the power of Nitro cans.”

“Consumers will not need an espresso machine nor a shaker for this one, making this nitro drink and its unrivalled features accessible to a wider market by using a ‘to go’ format,” Mariano adds.

Metal is a permanent material which can be infinitely recycled without loss of quality. Universally recognized for its protective qualities, versatility and environmental credentials, metal has the highest recycling rates of all packaging materials in Europe, thus effectively contributing to the fundamental principles of a circular economy.

Microbiological challenges
In terms of R&D, Adriana Escobar tells PackagingInsights that dealing with the microbiology within the can was the biggest challenge. “Through careful processing, we were able to create an ‘in-can’ environment that upholds the full-bodied taste of the product as well as allowed for safe storage outside the cold chain for an extended period of time.”

“Furthermore, we invested significant time in working through each step of the filling and overall processing of the can in order to effectively replicate the ‘on-tap nitro’ experience and to ensure we had the capacity to support can fillers in implementing the technology.

Escobar explains that Nitro Cans are not limited to coffee and beer. “Beverages with Nitrogen create a new drinking experience and offer opportunities to redefine existing drinks, create totally new ones, or develop a Nitro category of its own. We will further develop within alcoholic and non-alcoholic categories, such as FABs or Tea/Flavoured Water & Milk respectively,” she concludes.

The Kahlúa Espresso Martini product is currently available in Europe and Australia.

By Joshua Poole