Barbados’ newest premium ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail brand, CORUS, has officially
launched, introducing its flagship product, Sparkling Rum Punch, to the market. This innovative beverage offers a fresh take on the island’s beloved rum punch, blending premium Foursquare rum, real lime juice, Barbadian cane sugar, spices, and sparkling water for a vibrant, effervescent experience.
Crafted to reflect the heart of Caribbean hosting culture, CORUS aims to redefine how people celebrate, connect, and enjoy authentic flavours. “CORUS is more than just a cocktail; it’s a modern expression of our heritage,” said Sam Neilands, Founder and Co-owner of CORUS. “We’re creating a product that resonates with both locals and global audiences, celebrating the joy and vibrancy of life in the Caribbean.” A standout element of CORUS’s story is the involvement of DJ Puffy, Barbados’ internationally acclaimed DJ and Red Bull Thre3Style World Champion, who has joined the team as an investor and brand ambassador.
Known for his trailblazing career and global reach, DJ Puffy brings unmatched energy and cultural authenticity to the brand. “When I joined CORUS, it wasn’t just as an ambassador but as an investor who believes in the vision of this brand,” said DJ Puffy. “CORUS is about more than a great drink—it’s about bringing the spirit of Barbados to the world. This isn’t just a partnership for me; it reflects my commitment to our culture and its potential
to shine globally.” During CORUS’s successful retail debut last week, the team achieved a
remarkable conversion rate during the first sampling activations, selling out at multiple locations. “Consumers love the brand—its packaging, flavor, pricing, and the unparalleled refinement it brings to Barbados. There’s pride in seeing a homegrown brand resonate at such a high level”, said Nick Neiland’s, Barbados Country Manager for CORUS.
Over the next six months, the CORUS team will focus on investing in driving “liquid-to-lips” strategies. This means recruiting new consumers through in- store promotions, bars, rum shops, and key cultural events like rallies, cricket matches, surfing competitions, Crop Over and more intimate hosting occasions. CORUS will also align the brand with iconic music events and parties, especially those hosted by their esteemed investor and partner, DJ Puffy.
Raphael Grisoni, General Manager at CORUS, said, “For CORUS, the ambition doesn’t stop here. CORUS is targeting international growth, starting with the USA. Within two weeks, we’ll finalize our launch market and prepare for an exciting international expansion this year. The ready-to-drink (RTD) category is booming in North America (USA and Canada) and is gaining momentum across Europe. A feeling that is shared by the whole team and
our 48 investors, is pride – pride to launch CORUS first in our home market Barbados, giving locals and visitors alike a refreshing, 6.5% alcohol, and lower-sugar beverage to enjoy. The French may have their champagne, but Barbados now has CORUS!”
This venture has already made a meaningful impact, generating seven permanent jobs in Barbados, along with part-time opportunities such as brand activators. As CORUS prepares for expansion, the team is actively recruiting for key positions, including a finance controller. Additionally, CORUS has forged partnerships with the Barbados Government’s state-of-the-art International Food Science Centre facility and Dreadhop Brewing, driving long-term growth and encouraging knowledge-sharing across the
island’s local manufacturing sector.
