Integrated Beverage Group (IBG), Denver, launched Replica wines.
IBG partnered with Ellipse Analytics, an independent, ISO 17025 accredited analytical chemistry laboratory, to compile what could be the world’s largest database of taste and aroma information relating to wines and other alcoholic beverages.
The lab, equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation, identifies more than 50 specific flavor and aroma profiles in each wine. The company’s winemakers use this data – and classic blending techniques – to create wines that taste virtually identical to popular national brands, but retail for as much as half off.
“Ellipse Analytics makes sure that each Replica wine meets strict scientific guidelines,” said the lab’s president, Jaclyn Bowen. “We ensure at least 90% chemical similarity to the wine by which each was inspired, in notes such as acid, butter, caramel, citrus, earthy, floral, fruity, herbal, nutty, oaky, smoky, spicy, sweet and tannic, in order to meet stringent IBG quality expectations.”
Replica wines now available for purchase at wine retailers nationwide include:
Pickpocket Red Blend, retailing for less than $25: Compare to The Prisoner red blend, but at approximately 40 percent less than the prevailing retail price, depending upon the market.
Misbehaved Pinot Noir, retailing for less than $16: Compare to Meiomi Pinot Noir®, but at approximately 20 percent less than the prevailing retail price, depending upon the market.
Knockoff Chardonnay, retailing for less than $11: Compare to Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay, but at approximately 20 percent less than the prevailing retail price, depending upon the market.
Just Right Cabernet Sauvignon, retailing for less than $13: Compare to Joel Gott 815 Cabernet Sauvignon, but at approximately 20 percent less than the prevailing retail price, depending upon the market.
Embellish Pinot Noir, retailing for less than $15: Compare to Erath Oregon Pinot Noir®, but at approximately 20 percent less than the prevailing retail price, depending upon the market.
The company will expand the Replica portfolio to include additional wines across multiple price points, regions and varietals. Soon-to-be launched wines include:
Retrofit Chardonnay, retailing for less than $25: Compare to Rombauer’s Carneros Chardonnay®, but at approximately 30 percent less than the prevailing retail price, depending upon the market.
Label Envy Pinot Noir, retailing for less than $17: Compare to La Crema’s Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir®, but at approximately 20 percent less than the prevailing retail price, depending upon the market.
Scapegoat Valle dell’Adige Pinot Grigio, retailing for less than $17: Compare to Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio®, but at approximately 20 percent less than the prevailing retail price, depending upon the market.
“Replica allows smart consumers, who appreciate great wine, to toss a $25 bottle of Replica in a decanter and convince their guests they’re drinking a bottle nearly double the price,” said Walker. “Who doesn’t love a weekend wine at a weekday price?”