Super Light Spirits

The Alcohol Advisory Council is disappointed to see the emergence of super light spirits specifically designed to beat the recent increase in alcohol excise tax.

“However, we are delighted to see that the impact of the increased excise tax has led to a lowering of the alcohol content of these products to almost half their original strength,” said Dr Mike MacAvoy, ALAC Chief Executive.

ALAC supports the recent Government move increasing the tax on alcohol drinks with alcohol content by volume of between 14 and 23 percent. Price policy is proven method internationally of reducing consumption and therefore alcohol related harm.

Because alcohol excise tax in New Zealand is applied it bands, these so called light spirits (which contained 23 percent alcohol by volume) were able to be produced cheaply and attract young drinkers out to get the “best bang for their buck.

“We’re pleased the price of these spirits now better reflects their alcohol content.”

Dr MacAvoy’s comments follow a report in the New Zealand Herald where Independent Liquor founder and managing director Michael Erceg reported his company would continue to produce drinks such as its vodka-based Kristov and whiskey- based Kentucky, although with reduced alcohol level of 13.9, thus escaping the new tax.

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