THE brains behind the successful Allendale Brewery are celebrating the success of their new fruit-infused alcoholic sparkling water.

In a complete change from their internationally award-winning craft ales, RIDE creators Lucy and Tom Hick have smashed sales targets with their new product – a blend of alcoholic sparkling water and natural fruit flavours.

A few weeks since their lockdown launch, they are now distributing RIDE through shops and pubs nationwide and exporting to Japan, Norway, and the Republic of Ireland.

After learning about the fastest-growing drinks sector Lucy and Tom were inspired to set about making their own, experimenting with flavours in the kitchen of their home in Riding Mill.

Despite launching in lockdown, RIDE’s reputation has spread nationally and internationally.

“We’ve been completely blown away by its popularity,” said Lucy.

“We chose the name RIDE because it stands for everything we want the brand to be.

"A ride is exciting, fun, health-focused and enjoyable; to appeal to a new generation of drinkers who are enthusiastic about being at the forefront of new trends.”

Also available in pubs on draft, it is made at Allendale Brewery's base on the banks of the River Allen.

In four natural fruit flavours – Mango and Passionfruit, Black Cherry, Blood Orange, and Persian Lime - Lucy and Tom spent months researching flavours and formulas in their kitchen until they found their own perfect blend.

“We spent many evenings tasting different flavours at home until we got it just right,” Lucy added.

“We didn't want to use anything artificial, and we got there in the end - a great-tasting, refreshing, natural drink.

"We’ve never seen a product grow so quickly in popularity. Demand at home and abroad is just unprecedented.

"And all from a lockdown launch.

"It’s amazing.”