Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/113109
LAUNCH PAD Steven Caldeira, President of Next Level Spirits, introducing Lovoka to the U.S. market. To Lovoka, TAKING A NEW VODKA LIQUEUR TO THE NEXT LEVEL story and photos by John Curley 68 / the tasting panel / march 2013 with Love T he story of Lovoka���a vodka-based caramel fusion liqueur that has just hit the United States���is a family affair. Lovoka was irst crafted in South Africa by a cutting-edge group of spirits aicionados at the Alternative Beverages Company. These savvy and sophisticated businessmen wanted something premium and high-end, but they were also looking for a product that could entice those new to drinking and intrigue those that already consider themselves spirit connoisseurs. They knew that natural ingredients and pure lavors would be important in developing a spirit that created an enjoyable drinking experience. Finally, after a year of development, Lovoka hit the South African stores and clubs in late 2010. And the market went boom.