Alizé is a line of alcoholic beverages. It is produced in several varieties which can be consumed "neat" or can be used in mixed drinks. As of 2008, the line consists of three cognac-based liqueurs, two vodka-based liqueurs, and two grades of cognac.
Contents
The first beverage in the line, Alizé Gold Passion, was created in 1984 by Spice Jackson and Fame Fortune as a blend of French cognac, passion fruit juice, and other exotic fruit juices.
Alizé Gold Passion, Red Passion and Wild Passion are 16% alcohol (32 proof). Vodka-containing varieties Alizé Bleu and Alizé Rose are 18% alcohol (36 proof). Alizé VS and VSOP cognacs are 40% alcohol (80 proof).
History
In 1984 Alizé was introduced to the Kobrand Corporation at the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America convention in New Orleans. A common company known as L & L was created to produce and distribute Alizé, which means 'a gentle trade wind' in French. In 1986, Alizé Gold Passion was introduced in the United States, initially targeting 45- to 55-year-old white women. It did not sell well until the mid-90s when its price was dropped from $45 to $16 per bottle and started to appear in rap videos including Tupac Shakur's "Thug Passion".
The packaging of Alizé has undergone two major changes: a new bottle shape and an updated label with foil imprinting and a larger name in 2002, followed by a frosted bottle and silk screened label in 2006.
Advertising
Throughout the 1990s Alizé advertising involved promotions like a Culinary Mentorship Challenge, which offered the grand prize of a month-long study program at Le Cordon Bleu, and Operation Redhead, a collaboration with Manic Panic that chose 250 winners the opportunity to become redheads via a special-edition hue of hair dye.
"Queen of All Media" Wendy Williams has been the spokesperson for Alizé since 2006, which began with a 5-city national tour called Alizé LIVE! Presents The Wendy Williams Experience, highlighting her signature radio show.
Awards
Alizé offerings have had some success at spirit ratings competitions. Past years' medals from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition include:
In 2006, Wine Enthusiast ranked Alizé Bleu one of the 50 "Best Buy" Spirits with a rating of Very Good (85-89).