Expert's verdict: 7/10 ?A superb drink with a lightly toasted blend of malt and hops. This will appeal to people, particularly those who have visited the West Indies and Cuba and have an interest in the politics and culture of the island. The packaging is good and conveys its provenance and authenticity. At 4.5% abv it should appeal to men and women. I imagine this brand would appear on the 'beers of the world' fixtures in many retailers. However, the fixture is becoming crowded and only the really distinctive will succeed in the longer term. John Taylor, head of buying, impulse, MBL Consumer's verdict: 6/10 ?I think the packaging is pretty good, with its dark colours and original font, though I'm not sure about the pirate and his designer stubble. It's a bit Pirates of the Caribbean and the back label looks like a Disney inspired treasure map. I would probably be intrigued enough to pick it up and have a closer look if I saw it on shelf though. It's malty and quite heavy, which takes a bit of getting used to. I think it would appeal to people who are bored of Continental lagers and looking for something a little different. Jon Humphrey, forensic accountant, Barnet A year down the line... St Helier Pear Cider Company: InterContinental Brands Launch price: £1.69 Today's price: £1.69 Acid test verdict: 3.5/5 Targeting 18 to 45-year-old men and women, St Helier has performed well since its launch. The company has invested in sampling activity, poster and outdoor advertising and has just developed a TV ad campaign, which launched in Scotland this summer and is now going national. There are plans to grow distribution by targeting the multiples and introducing a new one-litre bottle.

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