Global Brands has launched the first ever chocolate liqueur for Thorntons to celebrate the confectionary company's 100 year anniversary. Thorntons Chocolate Liqueur is a 17% ABV product made with quality cocoa from West Africa, vodka and cream that has been developed by Global Brands and Thorntons' Master Chocolatier, Keith Hurdman.

The brand was officially launched at a media event in London on April 18th.

Global Brands Marketing Director, Simon Green commented:

"It has been a pleasure to work with Thorntons, whose innovative and entrepreneurial spirit reflects our own. From a business perspective, this partnership has enabled Global Brands to do something that no other drinks company has done before and puts us ahead of the competition when it comes to drinks innovation and new product development.

"Interest in the Speciality Liqueurs market is gathering pace again and the category is currently experiencing plus three per cent growth in the on trade and plus six per growth in the off trade*. Cream Liqueurs is one of the only spirits categories that's growing in both value and volume in the on trade, and we think this product's quality and the association of luxury that the Thorntons name carries with it, is perfect for what today's consumer is looking for."

Thorntons Chocolate Liqueur launched in time for Easter and has been well received in on and off trade markets, securing listings with ASDA and key on trade National Accounts.

Perfect served over ice or as a base for cocktails, Thorntons Chocolate Liqueur can also be used as an ingredient in a selection of drinks and desserts such as hot chocolate or coffee, or in a rich fondant or chocolate trifle.

A bespoke menu of desserts and cocktails has been created using the brand, and staff training will enable on trade licensees to boost consumer awareness of Thorntons Chocolate Liqueur.

Cocktail Recipes

Thorntons Chocolatini

1 part Thorntons Chocolate Liqueur, 1 part Sobieski Estate Vodka, 1 part Vanilla Teichenné:
Combine all ingredients together with ice, shake and fine strain into a martini glass with lemon and dip in baker's cocoa

Thorntons Hazelnut Joy

1 ½ part Thorntons Chocolate Liqueur, 1 part Teichenné Coconut, 1 part Sobieski Estate Vodka, ½ part Fratello:
Chill a martini glass. Combine all ingredients together with crushed ice, shake and strain into a martini glass and garnish with choc shavings

*Source: Nielsen July 2010 (on trade), Nielsen August 2010 (off trade)