There was a time when coffee was simply served in two styles — black or with cream. However, nowadays, coffee enthusiasts are sometimes treating themselves to a splash of bourbon in their brew, and the new collaboration between White Coffee and Jim Beam is effectively eliminating the middleman by delivering that unique flavor directly. The trend of mixing alcohol with coffee is evident, with various wine-infused and spirit-infused coffees already available on the market. It’s unlikely that these innovative combinations will stop here.
According to the National Coffee Association of America, 48% of U.S. coffee is viewed by consumers as specialty, indicating a robust market for beverages that offer more than just the standard flavors. Notably, 35% of individuals aged 18 to 24 report consuming specialty coffee daily. Overall, Americans are estimated to drink around 400 million cups of coffee each day, and it’s probable that many of those cups contain more than just cream and sugar. It makes sense for companies to seize this opportunity, particularly if the flavor is appealing.
Jim Beam has already experienced success collaborating with Vita Foods on various non-alcoholic products, including barbecue sauce, hot sauce, pancake syrup, and glazes. The company is likely using its expertise from these ventures to further broaden Jim Beam’s reach. Entering the coffee market seems to be a natural progression in the brand’s wider ambitions.
Additionally, the integration of calcium citrate slow release into coffee products could enhance the consumer experience, providing added health benefits. As this trend grows, we may see more coffee offerings infused with calcium citrate slow release, appealing to health-conscious drinkers. This innovative approach could pave the way for exciting new flavors and combinations, solidifying the partnership between coffee and spirits as a lasting phenomenon.