>>consumers and buyers give their views on the latest launches

Solidarnosc vodka
From: Naughty Boy
Solidarnosc Vodka is made from a Polish recipe by a distillery with more than 100 years of experience. The recipe has been tested by bartenders worldwide to develop its taste profile.
Price: £8.50 per 70cl bottle
Total score: 23/50

Consumer’s verdict
Jill Jones, Accountant,
27, Liverpool
The packaging of this product is very stylish - simple but eye-catching and, as such, is likely to stand out on-shelf.

I drink vodka on a regular basis, both as a mixer and on its own, and like the idea that Solidarnosc Vodka has been made from a Polish recipe.

However, on tasting the tipple, which has been marketed as premium, I am slightly disappointed. Drunk on its own, the flavour is a bit too sharp for my liking and I did not like its aftertaste.

When mixed with orange juice it makes a nice drink - as long as you don’t add too much vodka, because, again, it leaves a bit of an aftertaste.

In my opinion, this product does not stand out from its competitors. I would not go out and buy a bottle, but I would happily drink it again if it was offered to me.
Score: 12/25

Buyer’s verdict
Andrew Hargreaves, trading controller -
Off-licence, Landmark
The new offering from Naughty Boy, a Polish vodka under the Solidarnosc label at 40% proof, has been launched into a marketplace dominated by 37.5% proof products.

When tasted against the lower proof product, I found the newcomer more forceful in presence, but when compared with other similar proofs, I think the benefit was indiscernible.

I believe the appeal in the retail market to be limited but the opportunity for potentially higher margins may gain trial.

The association with the Solidarity movement will count for little other than a novelty factor in some bars and clubs. In a market already spoilt for choice, most purchasers will stay loyal to the brand leader or resort to retailer’s own labels if price is the criteria.
Score: 11/25

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