Malibu® Introduces the Brighter Side of Spiced with All New Malibu® Island Spiced

First Low-Calorie Spiced Rum Fuses Bold Caribbean Rum with Coconut Liqueur and Natural Spices

News provided by

May 07, 2013, 08:00 ET

NEW YORK, May 7, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- A burst of sunshine has hit the spirits market with the brand new Malibu^® Island Spiced, a bolder taste of the much loved Malibu^® coconut complemented with vanilla and a hint of cinnamon, and at a fraction of the calorie count. At just 70 calories[i] per serving, the light amber Malibu Island Spiced is the industry's first low-calorie spiced rum and marks the first major spirits brand to use Truvia^®, the all-natural sweetener that gives Malibu lovers the rich and smooth flavor they crave, without the guilt.

"We are coming off of some hot successes with Malibu Red and Malibu Black and it is clear that the cocktail community is really embracing this era of innovation within the rum category," said Lisa McCann, Brand Director, Malibu. "Malibu Island Spiced takes what many thought was not possible for a liquor brand - more flavor, with less calories. We are really excited to debut such a delicious, guilt-free beverage."

To further pay homage to the island spirit of Malibu Island Spiced, the brand is also proud to announce a partnership with fashion designer, bestselling author and lifestyle expert, Lauren Conrad. Born and raised in Laguna Beach, California, Conrad has quickly built an empire bound to a credo of simple and classic beauty, all inspired by her beach roots. With a knack for trendspotting everything from home decor and entertaining etiquette to little black dresses with chic updos, Conrad's effortless sense of style and beauty makes her the perfect representation of Malibu Island Spiced.

"I'm excited to announce that I'll be working with Malibu on launching the new Malibu Island Spiced," said Lauren Conrad. "Entertaining is such a big part of my life and Malibu Island Spiced gives me the perfect inspiration for new and delicious cocktail recipes that I'm excited to share with you all."

To celebrate the beginning of summer, Malibu Island Spiced and Lauren Conrad will host a beautiful beach themed launch event on May 7 at PH-D at Dream Downtown in New York City. With giant cabanas and a braid bar, guests will enjoy a summer beach vibe in Manhattan, all with a sun kissed cocktail in hand.

Hitting bars, restaurants and retailers later this month, Malibu Island Spiced is 30% alc/vol (60 proof), and retails at a suggested price of $16.99 for 750 ml.

Whether you're in New York City for the launch party, or looking to get a taste of Malibu Island Spiced for yourself, make sure to follow our official Twitter, @Malibu_Rum and enjoy these signature Malibu Island Spiced cocktails:

Malibu Spiced On Ice

1 part Island Spiced

Serve over crushed ice. Garnish with orange twist.

Malibu Spiced With Sparkling Water

1 part Island Spiced

2 parts sparkling water

Garnish with orange twist.

Malibu Spiced & Diet Cola

1 part Island Spiced

2 parts diet cola

Build in Collins glass. Garnish with lime.

Malibu Spiced Bitterspice Collins

1 part lemon juice

3 parts club soda

.75 part simple syrup

2 dashes angostura bitters

Lemon wedge

Shake all ingredients, except soda, in a shaker.

About Pernod Ricard USA®

Pernod Ricard USA is the premium spirits and wine company in the U.S., and the largest subsidiary of Paris, France-based Pernod Ricard SA, which employs more than 18,000 people worldwide and is listed on the NYSE Euronext exchange (Ticker: RI).

The company's leading spirits and wines include such prestigious brands as Absolut® Vodka, Chivas Regal® Scotch Whisky, The Glenlivet® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Jameson® Irish Whiskey, Malibu®, Kahlua® Liqueur, Beefeater® Gin, Plymouth™ Gin, Seagram's Extra Dry Gin®, Martell® Cognac, Hiram Walker® Liqueurs, Pernod®, Ricard® and Avion™ Tequila (through a joint venture with Tequila Avion); such superior wines as Jacob's Creek® and Brancott Estate®; and such exquisite champagnes and sparkling wines as Perrier-Jouet® Champagne, G.H. Mumm™ Champagne and Mumm Napa® sparkling wines.

Pernod Ricard USA is based in Purchase, New York, and has roughly 850 employees across the country. Pernod Ricard USA urges all adults to consume its products responsibly and has an active campaign to promote responsible drinking. For more information on this, please visit: http://www.acceptresponsibility.org.

Bring Moderation to your celebration.

[i] Per 1.5 fl. oz. Serving. Average analysis: calories 70; carbohydrates 2 grams; protein 0 grams; fat 0 grams.

SOURCE Pernod Ricard USA