Ronda Soft Drinks Conquer Top Restaurants

Ronda boasts significant tourist appeal complemented by a robust gastronomy and a wide range of wines produced in over 20 boutique wineries located in the Serranía. Recently, these wineries have launched several new products, including a sparkling rosé wine. Now, they have also introduced their own artisanal soft drinks, produced by Montelux under the sponsorship of the Ortega family, who own various hospitality businesses in the city.

Initially tested in their venues until the desired formula was achieved, over a year ago, the brand began to penetrate the premium carbonated soft drinks market. This sector is underdeveloped in Spain but common in European countries where such local small-scale productions are frequent.

"We use natural flavors and juices, cane sugar to sweeten them, a very specific water [which is not disclosed], and a concentration of gas that makes them very pleasant to drink, they are not heavy and do not leave you feeling bloated," explained Javier Orozco, the firm's expansion manager. He also argues that the use of natural flavors enhances the taste of orange and lemon more distinctly in the mouth. "We want it to be refreshing, smooth, and not acidic," Orozco also notes.

Regarding market acceptance, he believes they are "very satisfied with the reception we are getting. We have added a portfolio of 100 clients in a complex sector, although we are not competing with industrial brands, it's a different kind of product."

Ronda itself and its tourism potential have been very helpful in promoting them, as they can be found in hotel chains such as Catalonia, the National Parador of Tourism, and the two-starred restaurant Bardal. In the Serranía, Mesón Sabor Andaluz, a one-star restaurant, also includes them on its menu. "Many customers have tried them in these venues and we have begun to export to individuals in France, Saudi Arabia, and Dubai," says Orozco. Additionally, an Italian restaurant has also added them to its offerings.

This is complemented by its expansion within the province of Málaga with a presence in renowned restaurants like Marinos José or Oliva, among others. They are also featured in Sobretablas or Promesa in Seville.

Orozco acknowledges that introducing the product to new establishments often surprises them that it involves artisanal soft drinks from a Ronda-based company. "I believe this factor helps us because they are also looking for special products and in the world of soft drinks in Spain, this type of production is not very common," he explains. In this regard, he also maintains that "although we may have that surprise factor, the soft drink has to taste good and convince."

Moreover, one of their goals is to reach customers who care for their product and can explain how it is made and what makes it different from other options available.

In this respect, they are very pleased with the customers who have trusted their drinks, as "it is very important for us that this product is cherished and explained so that the differences can be recognized and appreciated," states Orozco. Although these soft drinks currently have a greater presence in high-cuisine restaurants or gourmet areas, they assure that "it is a product for everyone and can be purchased directly on the website or in stores that already stock them."

As for how to enjoy them, Orozco assures that it is equally valid to drink them alone or mixed with other beverages to which they provide a special flavor.

However, as they are artisanal productions, the price is also higher than usual in the market, with a direct sale bottle costing 1.65 euros. Indeed, they claim to have private customers who prefer their soft drinks because they tolerate them better than others currently available in the market.

Additionally, among the goals they have set is to continue expanding the brand and to keep creating jobs in the city of Ronda. Indeed, distribution is carried out directly with their own staff. However, like the major internationally recognized brands, the formula for their production is a secret, and few know it.