In a strategic move aligning with Carnival 2026 festivities, Angostura Holdings has launched Cubata—a premium ready-to-drink (RTD) beverage combining spiced rum and cola. The product debuted at a media event on January 20th at the company’s Laventille headquarters, attended by acting CEO Ian Forbes, Chairman Gary Hunt, and brand ambassador Imran ‘GI’ Beharry.
Cubata represents Angostura’s innovative take on the classic rum-and-cola cocktail, specifically formulated with Angostura Tamboo Spiced Rum rather than traditional white rum. With an alcohol content of 7%—positioned at the higher end of the RTD market—the beverage targets lifestyle-driven consumers aged 21-35, including urban professionals, creatives, and hospitality workers.
Forbes emphasized that Cubata addresses growing consumer demand for convenience and experimentation within the rapidly expanding RTD sector. Unlike conventional Cuba Libre cocktails, this pre-mixed formulation offers consistent quality and quick service capabilities for bar environments.
Chairman Gary Hunt revealed broader strategic initiatives accompanying the launch. The company will rebrand its Solera Wines and Spirits outlets as ‘House of Angostura Wines and Spirits’ to strengthen brand recognition and international appeal. This rebranding, already approved by the board, facilitates clearer market association with the Angostura name.
Looking toward global expansion, Hunt outlined plans to establish House of Angostura outlets in cities with significant Trinidad and Tobago diaspora communities, including Brooklyn and Toronto. The company is simultaneously exploring non-alcoholic product lines, including alcohol-free bitters, to align with emerging consumer trends among Gen Z and millennial demographics.
These developments form part of Angostura’s ‘2.0 x3’ growth strategy aiming to double revenue and triple profits by 2028. The Cubata launch strategically precedes Carnival celebrations, leveraging shifting consumer preferences toward convenience, flavor innovation, and brand identity.