A welcome new initiative from Pernod Ricard pairs cocktails with water in specially designed glassware, encouraging a more balanced approach to drinking. Three Kuala Lumpur bars have put their own spin on the concept, with whisky, cognac, and even coconut water making an appearance.
The next time you order a cocktail, you might find your water arriving in the same glass. That’s the idea behind Split Drinks, a new initiative from Pernod Ricard that aims to make responsible drinking feel like a natural part of a night out, rather than an unwelcome interruption.
Launched in the Asia-Pacific region this November under the company’s Drink More Water program, Split Drinks uses specially designed glassware divided into two equal sections. One holds the cocktail, while the other contains water, allowing drinkers to alternate between the two without juggling separate glasses.
The thinking is simple: enjoy your drink tonight, and – since the dreaded hangover is often a combination of overindulging on the cocktails and not staying sufficiently hydrated – give yourself a better tomorrow, too! In fact, the initiative claims this idea as its tagline: One glass to enjoy your night, one to enjoy tomorrow.
Three Kuala Lumpur venues – Neo Bar KL, Reka, and Cacao Mixology & Chocolate – have joined the Malaysian launch, each developing its own interpretation of the concept. Supported by Tourism Malaysia, the initiative also forms part of a wider regional collaboration, with Singapore’s Coolies’ Union participating in the campaign.
THREE BARS, THREE VERY DIFFERENT TAKES
At Neo Bar KL, the featured creation is The Split Fire, a refreshing whisky-based cocktail designed with Malaysia’s climate in mind. Chivas Regal 12 provides the foundation, complemented by Sauvignon Blanc and peach liqueur. Clarified calamansi adds a distinctly local citrus note, while vanilla rounds out the finish.
There’s good news for anyone who enjoys it: following its debut, The Split Fire will become a permanent addition to Neo Bar KL’s cocktail menu.
Over at Reka, the concept takes a more tropical turn with Split Barrel & Palm. This whisky sour combines Jameson Black Barrel with coconut water, which replaces plain water in the second compartment of the glass.
Coconut water is a familiar feature of Malaysian food and drink culture, and its subtle sweetness, savory nuances, and natural minerality offer an interesting counterpoint to the whisky sour. The cocktail became available at Reka on November 5 for a limited time, although no end date has been specified.
The third creation, The Split Ride from Cacao Mixology & Chocolate, takes inspiration from the classic Sidecar. Martell Noblige cognac is paired with Kelantan cacao, whose rich chocolate character adds depth without stealing the spotlight from the spirit.
The name plays on the idea of a companion joining the journey without taking the wheel. It’s a fitting concept for a drink that gives the cognac center stage while introducing another layer of flavor. The Split Ride was created specifically for the campaign and served exclusively at the launch event.
A SMALL CHANGE TO THE WAY WE DRINK
Split Drinks builds on Pernod Ricard’s Drink More Water initiative, which launched in 2021 as part of the group’s broader commitment to responsible drinking.
The new glassware, launched globally in April 2026, takes that message a step further by incorporating water directly into the cocktail presentation. Rather than relying solely on reminders to drink water between alcoholic beverages, it makes alternating between the two an integral part of the experience.
Rajesh Mishra, Managing Director of Pernod Ricard Malaysia, said the initiative reflects the company’s belief that responsible drinking is about making informed choices and maintaining balance while enjoying social occasions. “Drink More Water has long been an integral part of Pernod Ricard Malaysia’s commitment to promote responsible drinking across our consumer engagement campaigns and experiences,” he explained. “With Split Drinks, we are taking this commitment a step further by making balance a more natural part of the social experience. We believe responsible drinking is about making informed choices and maintaining balance while enjoying the occasion and building deeper human connection. This initiative offers a simple yet thoughtful way to encourage that balance.”
The concept also reflects a growing interest in more considered consumption, with drinkers increasingly looking for quality experiences while paying closer attention to how they enjoy them.
Of course, a cleverly divided glass isn’t a substitute for moderation, and drinking water does not reverse the effects of alcohol. But as a simple prompt to pace the evening and keep hydration in the picture, Split Drinks is an interesting addition to the bar scene.
For more information about Split Drinks and the Drink More Water initiative, visit drinkmore-water.com.
