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Diageo has extended its Baileys portfolio with a new lighter option that is made with 40% less sugar and calories than its Original Irish Cream.

Baileys Deliciously Light is made with Irish cream and whiskey and is said to offer the same rich cocoa and vanilla flavours as its flagship drink.

The new light variant contains on average 139 calories, 3.7g of fat and 7.8g of sugar per 2.5fl oz serving; in comparison to 233 calories, 10.1g of fat and 13.3g of sugar in the same pour of Baileys Original Irish Cream.

With a 16.1% ABV, Baileys says the new offering can be enjoyed over ice, chilled, in a smoothie or with hot, iced or whipped coffee.

Baileys' lighter option joins its portfolio that includes a dairy-free variant made with almonds, salted caramel, and a strawberries and cream offering. Last year, the brand launched a limited-edition Apple Pie Irish Cream Liqueur for Autumn.

"We're delighted to offer a lighter version of our beloved Baileys Original Irish Cream," said Stacey Cunningham, director of Baileys & Liqueurs, Diageo North America.

"We all deserve a little treat and with the launch of Baileys Deliciously Light, it's the perfect reminder for us to take that well-deserved time for ourselves this year."

The brand has also partnered with Cocktail Courier to offer four custom ‘light break’ packages in the US, featuring a cocktail (combining the new Baileys with espresso or green tea or Belgian chocolate) and other assorted goodies such as a yoga towel, coffee mug, head massager and socks.

Baileys Deliciously Light is available now in the US nationwide for an RRP of $24.99 per 750ml bottle.