House of Beer specialises in premium international, craft and world beers. The five year deal means it will sell and distribute Finnbarra cider (known as Stonewell Cider in Ireland) nationally in France.
The total volume ordered by House of Beer in the first three years of the deal alone is said to equate to the entire 2015 output of Finnbarra by the West Cork-based, family business. Nohoval Drinks Company is owned and run by husband and wife team, Daniel and Geraldine Emerson.
House of Beer says it has identified a growing demand for natural craft cider in a market dominated by mass-produced cider brands. Finnbarra Dry Irish Craft Cider will be sold across France in both bottle and draught formats.
The Emerson’s Finnbarra Dry Irish Craft Cider is said to be made from 100% pure apple juice. It claims therefore that it tastes better is lower in calories, devoid of added sugar or preservatives and therefore healthier.
House of Beer’s marketing director Arthur Lenormand, said: “The French market is cornered between Brittany farmhouse and overseas industrial ciders. As with the micro beer sector, wherein lies our established expertise, we are convinced that there is a latent demand amongst French consumers for a new taste experience which will change their patterns of consumption. As a result we are delighted to be able to introduce Finnbarra to them. To enlighten and delight the French consumer with a different style of cider is an exciting challenge and we’re aiming to achieve that with a product of outstanding quality.”
Nohoval’s Daniel Emerson said: “This is a landmark deal for us on several levels. A large five year contract for a six year old company allows us to plan our business with greater confidence. That this contract is for a market of 63 million people and with a subsidiary of Carlsberg is a significant endorsement of both our business and our cider.”
