Molson Coors moves into vodka with Black Cow partnership

Molson Coors Beverage Company has announced a new distribution partnership with West Dorset-based vodka brand Black Cow.

Molson Coors will exclusively distribute Black Cow Vodka and Black Cow Vodka & English Strawberries in the UK off-trade from 3 April. The deal comes as the vodka market continues to grow at pace. Value growth is expected to be almost five per cent each year over the next four years.

Black Cow was co-founded by fifth-generation dairy farmer Jason Barber and his neighbour and friend, Paul Archard. The vodka is distilled using milk from the dairy farm’s herd of 250 grass-grazed cows, giving it a uniquely smooth texture and creamy quality.

The brand was originally created as part of the farm’s zero-waste policy. The milk is separated into curds and whey. The curds are taken to make cheese. The whey, which would otherwise be discarded, is used to make the award winning vodka.

It has earned a number of accolades, including the UK’s Best Drinks Producer at the BBC Food and Farming Awards and two Gold Awards at the International Wine & Spirit Competition.

Black Cow already has listings in a number of major retailers and the new partnership will enable the brand to expand its presence in the off-trade even further.

“We wanted to bring something different to the spirits market, and through Black Cow we’ve created a vodka with a smoothness and well-rounded flavour that makes it perfect for enjoying on its own or as an accompaniment to cocktails such as Espresso Martinis,” Oliver Berney, Chief Executive at Black Cow.

“Molson Coors distribution network and industry knowledge will be invaluable as we look to expand our presence while ensuring that we can remain true to our core values when it comes to quality and sustainability.

“We would like to recognise the contribution our previous distributors, Mangrove Global Ltd, have made during our long-standing partnership and wish them continued success in the future.”

Laura Lee, strategy and change director at Molson Coors said: “Black Cow is a fantastic example of an innovative British alcohol brand that brings something truly unique to the spirits market. Its zero-waste ethos and commitment to quality is perfectly aligned with our own values, making this a natural partnership.

“Our Beverage Hub team continues to identify more growth opportunities beyond our beer and cider heartlands and Black Cow complements our expanding premium spirits portfolio. We’re confident that it will prove popular among consumers and help our off-trade customers generate more sales.”

Black Cow will join Molson Coors’s Beverage Hub spirits portfolio, which also includes Bandero Tequila, Tarquin’s Gin, Twin Fin Rum and Miami Cocktail Company.