Britain's fickle tipplers are abandoning once-trendy alcopops in favour of old favourites such as gin and tonic, drinks maker Diageo said yesterday.

While sales of Gordon's gin were up 4% by volume in the six months to December compared with the same period a year earlier, drinkers' waning enthusiasm for swigging ready-mixed drinks meant Diageo's sales of Smirnoff Ice and other alcopops fell 12%, despite gaining a rising share of the market.

Alcopops became controversial when campaigners accused the industry of using the products' colourful packaging and sweet taste to hook younger drinkers. But the shrinking sales suggest their appeal is waning.

Diageo, whose brands include Guinness, Johnnie Walker whisky and Baileys, reported half-year, pre-tax profits of £1.3bn - a sharp turnaround from a £208m loss in the same period in 2002.

"Diageo is committed to creating shareholder value even in uncertain times. These results demonstrate our ability to do so," said chief executive Paul Walsh. Earnings per share were up from 15p to 29p.

Despite the decline in alcopop sales, total turnover was up to £5bn from £4.9bn in the six months, after Diageo sold off the fast-food chain Burger King in order to concentrate on its "premium drinks" businesses.

Sales in Diageo's biggest market, the United States, were depressed by the sharp decline in the value of the dollar against sterling and the euro, which shaved a total of £14m off profits.

Based on current exchange rates, Diageo expects profits for the full year to take a £95m hit as a result of further adverse currency movements.