O’Neill Vintners & Distillers, a leading name in the U.S. wine industry and a Certified B Corporation, is expanding its footprint beyond the vineyard and into the rapidly growing functional beverage sector. With the debut of Catalyst, a plant-based, zero-sugar energy drink designed for modern wellness-focused consumers, the company is taking a bold step into new territory—aiming to reshape the energy drink landscape with a cleaner, more health-conscious alternative.
This strategic move represents a significant evolution for the family-owned company, known for its premium wines and spirits. By launching Catalyst, O’Neill Vintners & Distillers is positioning itself at the intersection of innovation, wellness, and beverage functionality. The brand’s entry into this space aligns with a broader consumer trend: a rising demand for functional beverages that deliver more than just refreshment—products that support mental and physical performance, clean energy, and overall well-being.
Addressing a Booming Market Demand
The U.S. functional beverage market is currently undergoing a surge in growth, especially within the energy and sports drink categories. According to recent industry data, the energy drink segment alone has expanded by 15.4% in 2024, reflecting consumers’ heightened interest in beverages that deliver functional benefits like focus, endurance, and immune support.
Catalyst was created in response to this growing demand. It offers a unique proposition—an energy drink that not only provides a moderate caffeine boost but also incorporates advanced nootropics and essential vitamins, all without compromising on taste or nutritional value.
“Consumers today are looking for more than a quick jolt of energy,” said Jeff O’Neill, Founder and CEO of O’Neill Vintners & Distillers. “They want sustained performance, better focus, and clean ingredients. With Catalyst, we’ve created a product that delivers all of that—without the sugar, without the crash, and without artificial additives.”
A Clean, Functional Formula
Unlike traditional energy drinks that rely heavily on sugar, synthetic caffeine, and artificial ingredients, Catalyst is formulated with plant-based caffeine sourced from green tea and green coffee beans. Each 12-ounce can delivers 120mg of caffeine—roughly equivalent to a medium cup of coffee—but without the jitters or sudden energy drop often associated with other products in the category.
What sets Catalyst apart is its inclusion of premium nootropics—ingredients that support mental clarity, concentration, and cognitive function. These brain-boosting compounds work synergistically to provide a steady, smooth lift in focus and performance, making Catalyst an ideal companion for work, workouts, or any high-energy lifestyle.
In addition to caffeine and nootropics, the drink is fortified with essential B vitamins, including B6 and B12, which are known to support energy metabolism and reduce fatigue. With just 10 calories per serving, Catalyst is completely sugar-free and contains no artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors—qualities that resonate strongly with the modern health-conscious demographic.
A Flavor for Every Palate
To complement its functional benefits, Catalyst delivers bold, refreshing flavor without compromise. The drink is currently available in six distinct varieties:
- SuperBerry – A rich and tangy blend of antioxidant-packed berries.
- PomPower – A pomegranate-forward flavor with a crisp, tart finish.
- Grapefruit Frost – Bright, citrusy, and slightly sweet with a cooling effect.
- Fruit Fusion – A vibrant medley of tropical and orchard fruits.
- Citrus Spark – A zesty mix of lemon and lime with a clean, sparkling edge.
- Orange Dream – A nostalgic flavor with notes of creamy vanilla and fresh orange.
These options are designed to cater to a variety of taste preferences, offering a more enjoyable alternative to the often-overpowering or synthetic taste of conventional energy drinks. Each flavor is housed in a sleek, modern can that reflects the brand’s clean, premium positioning.
Accessibility and Affordability
O’Neill Vintners & Distillers has priced Catalyst competitively to ensure accessibility while maintaining high quality. Consumers can purchase the product online via the official website, drinkcatalyst.com, with a 12-pack priced at $32.99 and single cans available for $2.99. In addition to its direct-to-consumer offering, the product will also be available at select retail outlets across the U.S., with broader distribution planned for later this year.
A Natural Extension of Innovation and Sustainability
The launch of Catalyst is more than just a product introduction—it’s a statement about the company’s broader commitment to innovation, sustainability, and consumer well-being. As a Certified B Corporation, O’Neill Vintners & Distillers adheres to rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.
Expanding into the functional beverage space allows the company to apply these principles beyond wine and spirits. From responsibly sourced ingredients to recyclable packaging and a low-calorie, sugar-free formulation, every aspect of Catalyst reflects the brand’s core values.
“We believe that being a purpose-driven company means constantly seeking new ways to serve our customers and our planet,” said Jeff O’Neill. “Catalyst represents the next chapter in our journey—a product that not only meets a consumer need but also aligns with our commitment to doing business the right way.”
