Available in the UK from August, Upcider will be another entrant into the premium-packaged over-ice sector invented by Magners that has been the success story of the alcohol market for the past two years.
S&N also owns Strongbow, the UK's biggest cider brand, as well as Bulmers, Woodpecker and Scrumpy Jack, and is investing £27m in the cider category this year.
The firm said the drink will be aimed at 25- to 49-year-olds who usually drink rose wine, white wine or spirit mixers, but want a lighter option.
The drink will be available in the on- and off-trade, sold in 500ml glass bottles. Marketing plans have yet to be finalised.
Strongbow had a 46.9% share of the on-trade cider market in 2006, followed by Magners' 18%, according to Mintel.
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