Haiver Spirits has brewed and canned one of the first hard teas in Australia, marking the brand’s entry into the fast-growing RTD category.

The launch follows founder and chemical engineer–turned-distiller Matthew Anastassiou relocating his boutique
distillery from Western Australia to Victoria. Spotting a gap in the Australian market for a brewed hard tea, he
set out to create a drink that was lightly carbonated but didn’t compromise on flavour.

“I’ve always loved iced tea and wanted to create a boozy version that was just as refreshing but with a crafted edge,”
said Anastassiou.

“Unlike what’s already available, instead of simply blending tea with spirits, I’ve brewed it on a beer base. This was an intentional move to give the product a silky, full-bodied mouthfeel that feels much closer to real iced tea – crisp and refreshing.

It’s launching nationally with two flavours initially: Summer Peach and Tropical. Packaged in 330ml cans at 4.5% ABV (one standard drink), Haiver Hard Tea is priced at $26 per four-pack. The first release will be available direct from haiverspirits.com.au, with limited stock also reaching select retailers.

“Haiver has never been about doing things the conventional way,” says Matthew. “We wanted to create something
that feels new but also instantly familiar. Like the iced tea you know and love – just slightly carbonated and a little
boozier.”