AI Bar mixes personalised hard seltzers in Adelaide

South Australian drinks start-up Sync has launched an artificial intelligence system that creates personalised hard seltzers based on individual taste profiles, in a move the company describes as a world first for the beverage sector.

The Adelaide-based business has developed an "AI Bar" that asks consumers a short series of questions. The system then recommends and mixes a hard seltzer that matches the user's stated flavour preferences.

Sync produces a sugar-free seltzer range. It uses a blend of flavour science and ongoing consumer feedback. The company said it can adjust both its core products and new variants as it gathers more data from drinkers.

The launch comes amid continued experimentation in the global alcohol and ready-to-drink categories. Producers are testing data-driven product design, new flavour formats and personalised experiences in venues and at home.

AI-driven flavour

Sync's AI Bar sits on top of a core range of flavours that includes Sour Lime, Orange, Raspberry, Mango and Cola. The system builds personalised profiles from these bases. It can then propose new combinations and taste tweaks for individual drinkers.

The recommended retail price is AUD $55 per mixed 10-pack. The company said the core range is already available through selected outlets in South Australia, with national distribution planned from January 2026.

Co-founder and Chief Executive Denham D'Silva said the model places data use in the hands of customers.

"For the first time, consumers control their data and with the power of AI in their hands, they can do more than choose what they drink, they can shape it," said Denham D'Silva, Co-founder and CEO, Sync.

Sync has filed a patent application covering its AI Bar system. The company positions the technology as a way to link digital interaction with real-time product formulation for individual consumers.

"Our (patent-pending) AI Bar is redefining what personalisation means in beverages. It represents the future of how technology and taste come together - intelligent, interactive, and designed around the customer.

"Sync flips the script of global consumerism, where beverage companies are using data and technology to sell more of what they make, not what people may actually want to drink. By having the power to shape what's in their glass, Sync produces quality beverages that allow drinkers to create authentic communities," said D'Silva.

Research origins

The concept traces back to a 2021 collaboration between D'Silva and the Australian Institute for Machine Learning in Adelaide. The institute sits among the world's top-ranked AI research centres by academic output. The partners tested how machine learning techniques could influence beverage formulation based on feedback from drinkers.

The work led D'Silva and hospitality industry figure Trent Fahey to found Sync. Fahey is a third-generation publican with a background in computer systems engineering. He previously worked for Motorola and later managed operations at several South Australian venues including the Lakes Resort Hotel, Bridgeway Hotel and Maid & Magpie.

D'Silva began his career in finance. He became Merrill Lynch's youngest Regional Vice President across the Asia Pacific division. He later founded craft brewery Barossa Valley Brewing in 2005.

Venue trials

Sync will run dual AI Bar activations this summer at The HWY Hotel and The Sandbar in Christies Beach. The events will allow patrons to answer preference questions, receive a tailored seltzer and leave feedback on flavour outcomes.

Customers at the venues will use QR codes to submit reviews. They can also suggest new flavour directions. Sync said it will use those responses when it designs additional products beyond the existing core range.

"The HWY will elevate its customer-first approach by letting locals create the HWY Seltzer flavour they want to enjoy this summer, while The Sandbar is teaming up with regional businesses like The Flour Store to craft a true community flavour," said D'Silva.

The company said the Christies Beach activation has a regional focus.

"It's a great example of local operators using AI to connect the community and for the Sandbar and Flour Store, a way to support a region impacted by the algal bloom - offering a fun, novel way to show support without getting into the ocean," said D'Silva.

Consumer feedback loop

Sync plans to keep a continuous feedback loop at the centre of its product development. It said all reviews and flavour suggestions submitted via QR codes at venues and on-pack will feed back into its AI models and flavour design process.

The company expects to add new flavours over time based on those consumer inputs rather than traditional top-down portfolio planning. It aims to show that drinkers in different regions and venues prefer distinct taste profiles.

Sync seltzers are now on sale in selected outlets in South Australia. The company is preparing for a national rollout from January 2026, with further AI Bar activations expected as it approaches wider distribution.