Director and co-founder of Malocchio Drinks, Anna Chiera, moved to Melbourne from Auckland in 2009 and has spent 11 years in the fashion industry.
Her roles predominantly included production management, product development and operations. Only after becoming redundant in 2020 did she decide to pivot her career.
“I love challenges and business management, so when my partner and I came up with the idea to start a drinks business, I jumped at the opportunity,” said Chiera.
“Our brand is not just a drinks brand; it is a livelihood filled with art, music, connections, good times, and the freedom to express individuality.”
Malocchio Drinks was one of the first spirit-based seltzers to launch in Australia, with unique flavours inspired by native Australian botanicals. Its offerings use a premium spirit locally sourced and made from GMO-free Australian wheat at a certified sustainable facility.
So far, the brand's biggest highlight has been winning World’s Best and Gold for its Kakadu plum flavour as well as Silver for its finger lime flavour at the World Premix Awards in 2023. Malocchio Drinks was also a nominee in the Australian Women's Small Business Champion Awards 2023.
For Chiera, a great beverage should be refreshing and well-balanced with flavour and sweetness. It should also be about the aroma, carbonation, and how it sits on the palate, providing a delightful experience.
She observed that premiumisation had been a growing trend as consumers preferred spirit-based seltzers over brewed ones. At the same time, many consumers were still unaware of how seltzers are made and how they vary.
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