South Africa’s flavoured cider category is getting a refreshing new addition as Hunter’s introduces its latest innovation, the Hunter’s ICED range, a bold new offering designed to deliver a cooling taste experience unlike anything currently available in the market.
Officially launching nationwide on 1 August 2026, the range introduces two new flavours, Hunter’s ICED Watermelon and Hunter’s ICED Apple, both developed around a distinctive Cooling Finish that creates a refreshing sensory experience with every sip.
The launch marks a new chapter for one of South Africa’s most recognisable cider brands, as Hunter’s continues to evolve its portfolio through flavour innovation and consumer-led experiences.
At the heart of the new range is the Cooling Finish, a unique sensory element designed to enhance refreshment and create a smoother drinking experience. While consumers have long associated refreshment with flavour alone, Hunter’s ICED introduces an additional layer by combining familiar fruit flavours with a cooling sensation that lingers after every sip.
The result is a product that delivers both flavour and refreshment in a way that feels new and distinctive.
“We saw an opportunity to bring something new to the category through flavour innovation and sensory refreshment,” said Nicole Hewitt, Marketing Manager at Hunter’s. “Hunter’s ICED delivers a distinctive cooling taste experience that gives consumers a refreshing new way to enjoy Hunter’s during social occasions.”
The two launch flavours each offer their own interpretation of the cooling experience.
Hunter’s ICED Watermelon combines the juicy sweetness of watermelon with an icy twist, creating a smooth and refreshing flavour profile designed for easy enjoyment during social occasions.
Meanwhile, Hunter’s ICED Apple builds on the crisp apple taste that cider lovers already know and enjoy, adding a distinctive cooling finish that elevates the drinking experience while maintaining the flavour familiarity consumers expect from the category.
To support the launch, Hunter’s is rolling out a nationwide campaign titled Refresh Ahhh, a creative platform inspired by the sensory feeling that follows every sip of the new range.
The campaign aims to move beyond traditional advertising by transforming everyday media spaces into interactive consumer experiences. Through a combination of outdoor installations, digital engagement, experiential activations and product sampling, consumers will be invited to interact with the brand and unlock rewards while experiencing the cooling sensation that defines the range.
The launch is further supported by an extensive above-the-line campaign spanning television, digital and outdoor media, making it one of the brand’s most ambitious marketing initiatives to date.
“Most brands talk about refreshment. We wanted to embody it by creating an experience that brings our product innovation to life,” said Nontsikelelo Gumede, Brand Manager at Hunter’s. “From the Cooling Finish to the interactive campaign elements, Hunter’s ICED showcases our commitment to delivering exciting flavour experiences and innovation for adult consumers.”
Available in both 500ml six-pack cans and 660ml returnable bottles, the range has been developed for consumers looking to enjoy refreshing moments with friends and family. The recommended retail price is R115 for a six-pack of 500ml cans and R23 for a single 660ml returnable bottle.
With flavour innovation continuing to drive growth across the beverage sector, Hunter’s ICED arrives as a fresh contender aimed at consumers seeking something beyond the ordinary. By combining familiar fruit flavours with an innovative cooling sensation, the brand is introducing a new way to experience refreshment.
Hunter’s ICED Watermelon and Hunter’s ICED Apple are available nationwide from 1 August 2026 and are best enjoyed ice-cold.
Hunter’s supports responsible consumption and reminds consumers that alcohol is not for sale to persons under the age of 18.
