40+ Best Canned Cocktails To Indulge This Season
May 02, 2022When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. For more information on how we conduct reviews, click here.
Long ago, if you wanted to enjoy a glass of your favorite cocktail , you needed to visit a bar or make your version at home. But now, companies have invented canned cocktails so you can have a refreshing sip wherever you go.
Ready to drink (RTD) cocktails are an excellent way to beat the summer heat. From the classic Cosmopolitan down to the zesty Agave Tequila, here are the best canned cocktails you can indulge in any time of the day!
Our Top Picks
Best with Food - Austin Eastciders Original Dry Cider • Great level of carbonation | |
Most Refreshing - Fishers Island Lemonade• Delightful summer flavors | |
Most Unique - Azulana Pineapple Rosemary Sparkling Tequila• Fruit and herbal forward | |
| Best Flavor Combo - Revel Avila Spritz - Guava + Toasted Coconut + Kaffir Lime• 100% pure agave spirit |
| Best for Health Enthusiasts - St Hildie’s Elderberry Hibiscus• Pleasant aromas |
The Best RTD Cocktails
1. Blue Marble Marble-Rita
Blue Marble is a product of a love story. Husband and wife Danyelle and Alan Miller had been in the medical field all their life and never thought of starting a business. They only know that they like serving cocktails to their guests, but they can only find brands full of artificial flavors and watered-down consistency. So they did a lot of research, data analyses and decided to create Blue Marble.
One of the best canned cocktails by the brand is Marble-Rita, a mixture of ultra-premium tequila, handcrafted triple sec, and natural lime juice. The result? An ultimate revitalizing mix with citrus, lime, and bitter notes.
Staying true to their promise, this beverage and its other variations have no artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, and dyes. Moreover, they have earned several recognitions, such as the 2020 Pr%F Awards, 2020 LUXlife Food & Drink Awards for Best Premium Pre-Mixed Cocktails Producer, 2019 Las Vegas Global Spirit Awards, and 2019 Great American International Spirits Competition, among others.
2. Siponey Whiskey Cocktail
The whiskey cocktail offered by Siponey has two variations. The first one is Royale, a marriage between whiskey, honey, lemon, and bubbles. It provides just the right sweetness and a subtle punch. Meanwhile, the Cafe combines whiskey, honey, coffee, lemon, and bubbles, offering a more angsty flavor profile.
Amanda Victoria, the founder of Siponey, started her passion for liquor after she worked for several New York craft cocktail bars. During her professional venture, she was exposed to several brands that gained her enough knowledge and skills to create her venture.
3. The Finnish Long Drink
Bring the national drink of Finland to America! This is the main goal that friends Sakari Manninen, Ere Partanen, Evan Burns, and Finn Mikael Taipale thought of when they launched The Finnish Long Drink. This liquor is a staple and a top-selling alcohol category in Finland. So when it finally hit the United States, it caught people’s attention for its distinct and exhilarating taste.
This best canned cocktail is a combination of citrus soda with a subtle kick from the distilled spirit. The initial tasting notes offer a white grapefruit flavor that is not that bright but still refreshing enough. Once settled in, the sour and tart hints start to come out alongside the grapefruit’s sweetness. While there is quite a bitterness at the end, it is not too overwhelming.
Aside from the classic recipe, the brand also offers keto-friendly Zero, Cranberry, and Strong variants. Each package contains six bottles so that you won’t run out of your share at the party.
4. Mayne & Co. Modern Mimosa
Mimosa is one of the most aesthetically pleasing and refreshing cocktails you can order at any bar. Its orange hue resembles a breathtaking sunrise that sends out a message of hope and love. The sister and brother tandem, Allie and Scott Griswold loved this beverage so much that they decided to create a canned version for those always on the go.
What sets their mimosa apart from the rest? They only use sustainably grown wine from Italy and organic orange juice. Their wine comes from a cooperative of small vineyards that are also practicing sustainable farming. In comparison, the can’s design is the creation of independent artists to make it look more like art than an advertisement.
This best canned cocktail is a mixture of wine and orange juice with bright and citrus hints that can make any simple dish more flavorful. It tastes better when chilled and partnered with pastries and desserts.
5. Links Drinks Classic Transfusion Cocktail
Links Drinks is based in Norwalk, reflecting the lifelong love of golf of its founder, Fred Evanko. His grandfather was an accomplished PGA player, which rooted Fred's liking for the sport.
Fred and his wife, Denise, had a wild idea to craft and start a canned cocktail business after being inspired by a famous drink called the Transfusion. They wanted their product to reflect tradition with its slogan "Enjoy Life" but also have an innovative edge with their flavors.
Links Drinks is taking the already classic golf club staple of transfusion cocktails, made with ginger ale, vodka, and concord grape juice, to new heights by creating their personalized recipe that no one can ever replicate.
Furthermore, the brand is on the cutting edge of innovation with their premixed Transfusion, made with zero gluten and 6x distilled 7% ABV vodka. With natural flavors added to make it authentic tasting, they're sure to appeal to and satisfy your cravings on any occasion!
6. Alani Seltz Hawaiian Shaved Ice
This best canned cocktail is made with quality ingredients that let you indulge without feeling guilty. Hawaiian Shaved Ice has 100 calories, 2 grams of carbs, 1 gram of sugar, and is gluten-free! Alani Seltz’s creation incorporates the flavor first before the fizz, which is quite unusual from the classic seltzers .
Made for “boss babes,” this canned cocktail is fitted for fierce women and men as well. The Hawaiian Shaved Ice offers a sweet yet punky taste, with hints of coconut and strawberries. The result of such fun combinations? A revitalizing drink with a gentle kick that stays in your taste buds.
7. Austin Eastciders Original Dry Cider
Austin Eastciders believe that ciders should not taste sweet. They only use real cider apples sourced from Europe that are full of tannins and have astringency and a more complex flavor profile. The process of creating the best cider starts from the cider apple juice concentrate. Then, they use white wine yeast to release the sparkly flavors that their ciders are known to have, making it an ideal base for cocktails.
Moreover, they use only the finest ingredients such as natural Texas honey, real hop flowers, real pineapple, and blood orange juice. The brand doesn't and will never use any artificial flavorings. One of their signature mixes is the Original Dry Cider. This best canned cocktail is crisp and smooth, made from European bittersweet apples and American dessert apples.
It offers tasting notes of bittersweet, winey, culinary apples, and pear. In contrast, its aroma is a combination of tart and ripe apples. Because of such distinct taste, this cider works best with brisket tacos, oysters, and soft cheese. And with only 5% ABV, you wouldn’t get too tipsy.
8. Slow & Low Rock and Rye
This best canned cocktail is inspired by the original Hochstadter’s Rock and Rye recipe and other drinks from the 19th century. The liquor’s humble beginnings started at the burgeoning nation’s saloons, where the bartenders will pour a shot of rye, and the customers will have to add their rock candy. This created a flavor profile similar to the Old Fashioned .
The Slow & Low version of Rock and Rye is a mixture of 84 proof rye whiskey, a pinch of rock candy, raw honey, navel oranges, and angostura bitters . The liquor is available in 750ml bottles and 100ml cans.
9. Lifted Libations Lime Vodka Soda
Probably one of the most incredible combos ever created is vodka and soda. This light and sweet beverage is ideal for those who like a little kick without an overwhelmingly bitter taste. However, what makes this drink even more refreshing is the addition of lime in the recipe. And one of the best Lime Vodka Soda ever created is by Lifted Liberations.
Andrew Fulton and his partner Moose Koons launched the brand soon after their first business, Rocky Mountain Soda Company, became a hit. They applied the principles of using organic and non-GMO ingredients that are also vegan and Kosher-free.
This best canned cocktail boasts of its citrus notes that match well with fruits and dry dishes. You can also choose other flavors such as orange, grapefruit, and currant. Each can only has 5% alcohol, which is perfect for casual drinkers.
10. Volley Spicy Ginger Agave Tequila
When founders Chris & Camila realized what’s actually in most spiked seltzers, they decided to make their own with only three things: Organic Juice, Sparkling Water, and Premium 100% Blue Agave Tequila from the highlands of Jalisco.
Volley only uses 100% blue agave tequila, avoiding the harmful additives of “mixto” tequila and other malt liquors. Volley also has no added sugars, preservatives, flavorings, or sweeteners.
As the first clean tequila seltzer cocktail on the market, Volley utilizes agave from the highlands for a sweeter and fruitier tequila. One of Volley’s most popular flavors is the Spicy Ginger, a combination of organic ginger, lime, sparkling water, and blue agave tequila.
They also offer other flavors such as Zesty Lime, Sharp Grapefruit, and Tropical Mango. All ingredients are sourced from Texas, Peru, and Mexico. Besides selling individual canned drinks, you can also order in 4, 8, 16, 24, and 48-packs for your guests to enjoy!
11. PRESS Pineapple Basil Seltzer
Nothing beats a classic pineapple-based cocktail, especially when you can taste a subtle tanginess and bitterness from the added liquor. The Pineapple Basil Seltzer by PRESS offers tropical and zesty notes with hints of herbal tones from the fresh basil. With only 4% alcohol by volume, you get to enjoy every sip instead of feeling dizzy.
The woman behind PRESS thought of turning the classic alcohol seltzer into something unique. At first, she only crafted her recipes in the kitchen and created complex flavors inspired by the global culinary experience. While making this drink, she needed to make sure that it was delicious, sophisticated, and has a low ABV.
Now, Amy is the only female whose alcohol seltzer is recognized as one of the top 10 brands. Together with other flavors such as Lingonberry Elderflower, Blackberry Hibiscus, Pomegranate Ginger, Lime Lemongrass, Grapefruit Cardamom, Blood Orange Chili, Pear Chamomile, and Apple Cinnamon, PRESS is not stopping anytime soon.
12. Tip Top Proper Cocktails Negroni
“Always balanced. Never too sweet.” Tip Top Proper Cocktails believes that alcoholic drinks should always taste just right. The brand’s root is in live music, where the experience plays a huge role, but access to delicious beverages is often not possible. So with the help of bartender Miles Macquarrie, they crafted cocktails that you can always bring and drink anywhere and any time.
One of the most sought-after best canned cocktails is Negroni, a mixture of dry gin, red bitters, and sweet vermouth. This bittersweet and boozy drink is balanced enough that drinking it straight up is not an issue. And with its gorgeous red hue, every sip is truly a sight to behold.
Negroni exudes tasting notes of bright orange and grapefruit with fresh juniper. It also has a juicy yet bitter finish. Not fond of this cocktail? Their other flavors include Old Fashioned, Bee’s Knees, Margarita, Daiquiri , and Manhattan .
13. Long Road Distillers Teta’s Lemonade
Before creating their signature spirits and cocktails, Long Road Distillers first decided to make a choice—take no shortcuts. This means that the brand only uses the finest and natural ingredients from West Michigan for its concoctions. Taking no shortcuts also signifies that every batch is flawlessly fashioned from start to finish.
While the brand is known for its classic liquor recipes such as vodka, rye, and whiskey , one of their best sellers is their canned cocktails. Teta’s Lemonade, the brand’s unique concoction, is made of Long Road’s original vodka, house lavender syrup, fresh lemon juice, and rosewater. It is available in 12 oz. cans with 10% ABV.
14. Reed’s Craft Ginger Mule
The classic mule is a favorite drink of many, primarily because of its light spice and refreshing taste. The Reed’s Ginger Mule is packed with natural ginger, organic stevia leaf extract, lime juice, and lemon juice. The recipe also features a unique bite with a slight spice, authentic ginger taste, and natural brewed flavor.
Since 1987, Reed’s has been serving customers their best ginger beer . And this best canned cocktail is no less than delicious and guilt-free. Made with zero sugar, caffeine, no GMO, and no artificial flavors, every sip is truly rewarding and simply delectable. Plus, with a 7% alcohol content, you will enjoy a subtle bitterness and sweetness alongside its spice.
15. St. Agrestis Spritz
This best canned cocktail started to make its name in 2014 and has evolved to be one of America’s most popular drinks in restaurants and bars. Industry expert Steven DeAngelo and entrepreneur Louie Catizone partnered to manage the company’s production. While Louie's brother, Matt Catizone, spent his time traveling to introduce the brand on the West Coast.
St. Agrestis Spritz brings Italy’s classic cocktail in a new and exciting version. The brand saw most Proseco getting opened to make a spritz at home, but the drink tends to become flat and doesn’t taste that good. So, they decided to pack this beverage into a can to maintain the intricate flavors. The drink boasts of herbal characteristics, floral notes, and a bittersweet finish.
16. Azulana Pineapple Rosemary Sparkling Tequila
Azulana is the name behind the well-known sparkling tequila drink. The brand only uses 100% blue agave tequila, sparkling water, fruit essences, and a hint of agave nectar to create a wholesome flavor.
Their tequila undergoes a fermentation process, making the yeast more active, thus creating unique flavors. Once the tequila has finished its process, sparkling water is added for that balanced and sweet final product.
Pineapple Rosemary Sparkling Tequila, Azulana’s best canned cocktail, is an excellent example of a crisp drink. The combination of agave, pineapple essence, and rosemary creates fruity, herbal, and floral flavors. And with just 4.3% ABV, every can is just enough to awaken your senses.
17. You & Yours Vodka Mule
After three years of planning, You & Yours finally opened its doors in 2017 as the first-ever urban distillery destination in California. All of the brand’s spirits are distilled on-site to make sure that they only produce the freshest batch every time.
Their take on vodka and gin laid out the foundation for their delicious cocktail recipes. The gin gives off fresh citrus, juniper, and an elegant floral finish. Plus, the addition of coriander offers a minty and earthy taste in every sip. Meanwhile, the vodka has floral notes with a creamy vanilla sweetness that is so satisfying. And one of the best canned cocktails from these two spirits is the classic Vodka Mule .
You & Yours’ take on Vodka Mule is the perfect blend of their vodka with added natural flavor and colored with fruit and vegetable juice. Also, if you are pretty attracted to cocktails with a good amount of alcohol, you would definitely like this one for its 8% ABV. Other variations include Gin and Tonic , Cranberry Vodka Soda, Key Lime Vodka Soda, Tangerine Vodka Soda, Blood Orange Gin and Tonic, Meyer Lemon Vodka Soda, and Cucumber Mint Vodka Soda.
18. Vervet Tiki Tea
Vervet is the “real thing.” Instead of just placing existing cocktails into cans and selling them, this brand makes everything from scratch—from the bitters, vermouth, amaro, tea, zest oranges, and other ingredients. Moreover, all flavors from their drinks are taken from a direct source, particularly in California farms. They make sure that there are no artificial components, refined sugar, corn syrup, and other lab-made flavorings.
While the brand offers exceptional beverages, their best canned cocktail goes by the name of Tiki Tea. When margarita , Arnold Palmer, and Moscow mule meet on a tropical island, what do you get? A one-of-a-kind drink that’s tarty and bubbly, resulting from the combination of pear vodka, oolong tea, lime, ginger, allspice, clove, and vanilla.
If you are not fond of Tiki Tea, you can also try their other mixes such as the Pale Mary, a spinoff of the classic Bloody Mary ; Angelicano, a classic Italian-style spitz; and Sundowner, a strawberry shrub drink.
19. Boulevard Brewing Co. Berry Noir
Before becoming a big brand in the United States, Boulevard Brewing Co. had a humble beginning that can be traced back to 1984. On vacation in Europe, the company’s founder John McDonald went into a bar specializing in Belgian beers. He tried the drink countless times and found himself in love with the flavors and aromas.
While he is firm to start his business, breweries during that time are just about everywhere, so he put his dreams into a pause and thought about how he can stand out from the rest. At first, he just worked on homebrewing. But soon after, the name Boulevard Brewing was recognized by everyone, and more patrons enjoyed his drinks.
One of the finest mixes he created is Berry Noir. This best canned cocktail features blueberries and blackberries with a crisp tartness from the lemonade. Its light and fizzy texture, along with its subtle sweetness and citrus hints, are so addicting that you would beg for another can. This beverage perfectly pairs with mixed greens, strawberry shortcakes, balsamic-glazed pork chops, and cheesecake, among others.
20. Fishers Island Lemonade
Summer is a time for vacations, outdoor activities, and lazy days in the sun. Many people associate this season with happiness and relaxation. And what better way to enjoy the blooming flowers and cool weather than to drink a refreshing spiked lemonade!
Fishers Island Lemonade is inspired by the signature house cocktail at The Pequot Inn, which is owned by the family of Bronyo Shillo, the founder of the brand.
The company’s mission is to craft the best quality and deliciously tasting cocktail in the United States. They have proven this countless times as they have earned numerous awards, such as the Gold Medals in 2021, the 2020 Denver International Spirits Competition, and the 2020 SIP Awards.
This best canned cocktail is a combination of premium vodka, barrel-aged whiskey , and lemon and honey. It has a crisp flavor and a subtle punch from the liquors. If you want extra flavors, you can also choose from the following: Spiked Tea with an addition of black tea on top of the lemonade, Pink Flamingo that incorporates cranberry, Island Fizz adds a few effervescent, and Frozen Spirit Pops with a hint of honey.
21. Plain Spoke Cocktail Co. Bourbon Smash
This best canned cocktail does not have complex flavors but instead sticks to what it is known for. Plain Spoke Cocktail Co. Bourbon Smash is crafted with whole flavors while still maintaining its classic taste. The combination of Midwest bourbon, 100% lemon juice, mint, and pure cane sugar results in a “smashingly good refreshment.”
Moreover, the incorporation of homemade lemon-lime seltzer and Milwaukee-based Bittercube Bitters’ Trinity creates citrus and floral aromas with tasting notes of oak and dried fruits. The brand makes sure to use natural ingredients with no additional preservatives or artificial ingredients. Plus, their unique canning process enables their products to maintain their freshness for longer.
22. Cardinal Spirits Bourbon Cream Soda
Imagine the flavors of oak, caramel, and spice from bourbon whiskey combined with the creamy vanilla goodness of cream soda. Isn’t it a perfect marriage of light and smooth drink? This is what you will experience when you try Cardinal Spirits’ Bourbon Cream Soda.
This best canned cocktail is distilled and flavored using fresh herbs, fruits, and spices. There is no usage of artificial flavorings or bottled extracts, as they only want the best quality for their beverages.
But why did the founders decide to come up with this business? Well, they wanted to make something that they can “hold” in their hands. They also want to create a workspace where every employee will happily show up and enjoy what they are doing.
23. Cocktail Squad Vodka Lemon
This stylish best canned cocktail is so tasty that you will want to drink a few cans in one sitting. Vodka Lemon by Cocktail Squad is a mixture of vodka, natural lemon flavor, and carbonation. The combination may be simple, but the flavors are explosive.
Each cocktail crafted by the brand has zero sugar and carbs and only uses naturally gluten-free, organic ingredients. The mind behind the Cocktail Squad is the husband and wife, Lauren and John Maggio.
Seven years before they established the company, the two found themselves drinking at a new restaurant in Boulder, where they had a good time. Lauren asked the bartender’s recipe while John went to town looking for the bar tools and ingredients to craft the best cocktail recipe. And the rest is history.
24. House Wine Ginger Mule
House Wine is notable for its topnotch canned wines . But did you know that they also serve one of the most refreshing and tastiest ginger mule cocktails ? The brand’s take on this straight-up crowd-pleaser has tasting notes of crisp and spicy ginger, with hints of citrus and lime. It has well-balanced flavors that are best served with ice or even straight from the can.
Just like their wine, this canned ginger mule is also a product of 100% natural ingredients, without any artificial sweeteners or flavor enhancers. Each can offers 12.5% ABV, which is just about the right booze you need without getting too flustered. Plus, you would be happy to know that this best canned cocktail perfectly pairs with any food, particularly those with some spicy or gingery kick.
25. Crafthouse Cocktails Gold Rush
Crafthouse Cocktails started their journey way back in 2013 when a cocktail without artificial flavorings was unavailable on the market. Matt Linder and Charles Joly felt the need to give their customers a go-to version of beverages they usually make in the bar. Now, the company proudly offers canned cocktails that their guests can enjoy wherever they are in the world.
This best canned cocktail was created at the original Milk & Honey bar in New York’s Lower East Side. If classic is the topic, Gold Rush is definitely in the top 10. This version by Crafthouse Cocktails is a mixture of bourbon whiskey sour , a dash of aromatic bitters, and fresh lemon. When serving this beverage, do it over ice and garnish with citrus twists, ginger, and fresh berries or mint.
26. Day Chaser Cranberry Vodka
Day Chaser aims to make enjoying a drink easy, convenient, and fun. It is one of Vermont Cider Company’s critically acclaimed brands under Northeast Drinks Group, based in Middlebury, Vermont.
Their cocktails are made with all-natural ingredients, including real fruit juice to ensure natural flavors and refreshing sparkling water. In addition, they are certified gluten-free, low in sugar and carbs, and only 100 calories. This makes them one of the best guilt-free choices for your next happy hour.
One of the main flavors offered by the brand is Cranberry Vodka. This features a tantalizing aroma of cherry soda, Hawaiian punch, and watermelon candy that are also present on the palate, creating a juicy and refreshing experience.
This drink is well-balanced, with just a touch of sweetness to round out the flavors. It’s also smooth and warming, perfect for sipping on a crisp spring's day.
27. Colony Cocktails The Charleston Cocktail
The story of Colony Cocktails begins with a married couple who loved to travel, Jessica and Philip Miller. After being inspired by the delicious cocktails they tasted in Rome, they wanted to create a brand of canned cocktails and reflect their home in Virginia in the cocktails. As a result, Colony Cocktails is an eclectic mix of various destination influences.
The higher-than-usual alcohol content and unique flavors make Colony canned cocktails a contender. These gluten-free beverages are made with natural wines and pack a punch at 10% to 11% ABV.
Among the delicious flavors by Colony Cocktails is The Charleston, which is a fresh twist on the classic Negroni . The inspiration for this drink came from the botanical aperitifs in Italy and France.
Upon tasting this cocktail, you can experience lemongrass's minty and earthy taste intermingling perfectly with aromatic allspice. This profile makes the drink great, either on hot or cold days. No wonder it won Gold Medal winner 2020 Canned Challenge!
28. Fabrizia Spirits Canned Fabrizia Italian Margarita
The Mastroiannis are the proud owners of Fabrizia Spirits, which has grown from a small family business into a widely respected establishment across New England and beyond. Brothers Phil and Nick gave up their old jobs so they could focus on building their company's future while maintaining its legacy in innovation and quality.
Fabrizia Spirits specialize in citrus beverages that are basically composed of Fabrizia's famous Limoncello, freshly juiced lemonade, and finally, vodka or tequila . The overall ABV in each can reaches 7%, which is just the perfect amount to spice you up! And if you are to choose the first flavor to try, go with their Italian Margarita!
This crowd favorite boasts a refreshing flavor and easygoing attitude. Its alcohol base is tequila with just enough sweet-tart balance without being overbearing or overwhelmingly alcoholic. This is then mixed with a limoncello to give it that unique twist while staying true to the botanical theme.
29. Miami Cocktail Margarita Spritz
Miami Cocktail Co. is a dynamic team of spirits industry veterans, Simon Benstead and Ross Graham, who have turned their passion for cocktails into an innovative business venture.
Its beverages are crafted with organic and authentic components to give you the best experience possible. They don't use any additives or preservatives in their gluten-free wine-based drinks.
They are taking their ready-to-drink cocktails to new heights with their Organic SPRITZ handcrafted line of canned cocktails.
The company's Small Batch Originals were already making a name in the hard seltzer industry, but their canned drinks are expected to surpass and take the lead in the hard seltzer and RTD canned beverage industry.
Moreover, the Organic SPRITZ collection features five flavors, including the Margarita Spritz. The subtlety of elderflower flavors is beautifully intertwined with the classic margarita taste.
A combination of citrus, including key lime and orange, mixes with a gentle hint of ginger can also be found in this variant. The drink is flavorful without being overbearing or cloying, so it’s easy to enjoy anytime.
30. Greenbar Distillery Coastal Rum + Cola
Greenbar Distillery is a staple of the Los Angeles drinking scene that's quite known for being a historic distillery, having operated since the Prohibition era. It's also known to house an impressive portfolio of organic spirits in the US.
The distillery is committed to using only certified organic ingredients, which enhances flavor and prevents contamination of farmland groundwater.
Furthermore, it is on a mission to reduce its carbon footprint. It has been implementing several eco-friendly initiatives, such as installing skylights to keep down daytime lighting and switching to LEDs for energy efficiency reasons.
They also started recycling water as a cooling mechanism for machinery, and they follow a program that aims to plant a tree for every bottle of their spirits.
It has been a hit among its Western audience for years, and among the reasons why is its Coastal Rum + Cola canned cocktail. This concoction can be described as warm and spicy, like an island paradise!
The smooth rum with rich tropical spice notes blends seamlessly with the equally rich and delicious cola. The taste of this cocktail is so fresh that you can feel the quality craftsmanship that went into making it.
31. KEEL Sparkling Grapefruit Vodka Soda
KEEL Vodka has been making waves in the spirits industry by being one of the few vodka brands offering an alcohol level below 24%.
Its founders, Bill Dessel and Tom McGowan, along with partner Matt Light had their roots deeply entwined with voyaging and sailing, which inspired their revolving theme, “Stay Balanced,” on their products.
With all the malt-based seltzers taking over shelves nowadays, KEEL wanted to make something healthier to compete with that innovatively; thus, they started their canned vodka line.
KEEL Sparkling is the newest addition to their line of drinks made with KEEL’s premium potato vodka, soda water, and all-natural flavors such as Blue Raspberry, Lemon Lime, Blood Orange, and Grapefruit.
The invigorating taste of premium vodka mixed with natural grapefruit flavors is perfect for enjoying an afternoon at home or on the beach.
Their mix is gluten-free, with 0 carbs, 0 sugar, and only 80 calories per 12. oz serving—ensuring to benefit the drinker’s health. This elixir is also notably smooth, which can be attributed to the premium potato vodka.
32. La Dolce Vita Seltzer IL Cosmo
The COVID 19 pandemic took a toll on businesses, including bars. François Tremblay was one of the bar owners to experience the closing of businesses that affected the sale of his Dirty Devil vodka brand.
This closure prompted him to create a ready-to-drink vodka-based beverage that will cater to a broader market. From this innovation, La Dolce Vita Seltzer was born.
It didn’t take that long to be a hit in Quebec, where it was created and is now making its way to the US market and other international settings.
One of its famous offerings is the IL Cosmo, which takes the classic cocktail—Cosmopolitan . This thirst-quenching seltzer is made with Quebec cranberries and premium vodka that’s smooth and not too strong.
At only 4% alcohol, it's light enough to enjoy without feeling too buzzed. Plus, it is gluten-free with only 90 calories, and 3 grams of organic cane sugar is a healthier option than most alcoholic drinks.
Tastewise, it has a clean, crisp flavor with a hint of sweetness. The seltzer has enough carbonation, which makes it light and reviving, that’s sure to quench your thirst.
33. LiveWire Golden God
What happens when you combine the passion for drinks and artistry? In the case of Aaron Polsky, his creative work resulted in a masterpiece called Golden God. Polsky is known as one of the most sought-after bartenders in Los Angeles and New York. But working on bars didn’t stop him from creating his brand, the LiveWire.
LiveWire is a “creative expression” intended to combine delicious drink recipes and appealing designs into the best canned cocktail. The brand gathers several bartenders across the globe to collaborate in making their signature drink. They also pick the artists themselves who will design the packaging, so their vision can come to reality.
One of the brand’s genius creations is Golden God, a sparkling blend of rye whiskey , brandy , apricot, green tea , and elderflower. The result of the intricate marriage? A refreshing cocktail on the go that is not too heavy nor too light. All other concoctions of LiveWire are a product of using the finest spirits, fresh juices, and natural extracts.
34. Ole Smoky Mountain Mule
Ole Smoky Distillery is more than just a company; it's an institution. It’s been the leading distiller of premium moonshine worldwide since 2010!
It all began with families who settled East Tennessee’s mountains back when it was still frontier land. They were hard-working folks whose traditions are kept alive by their descendants so you wouldn't have to miss out on the great taste of their canned cocktails.
The award-winning Ole Smoky Distillery has been recognized for its creativity and quality with four prestigious 2022 Growth Brand Awards from the Beverage Information Group.
They’ve also been awarded two Rising Star Awards in each category of drinks they offer—Ole Smoky Canned Cocktails and Ole Smoky Peanut Butter Whiskey. In addition, there's also a Fast Track Award for their Ole Smoky Whiskey and Ole Smoky Moonshine.
Their Ole Smoky Mountain Mule is your ideal drink if you're looking for a Moscow Mule that isn't heavy on the alcohol and has no noticeable flavor from any other liquor or mixer. It tastes light with an appropriate amount of ginger beer fizziness to keep things interesting without being too sharp-tasting.
This 9% ABV drink also combines the taste of vanilla cola and custard paired with a spicy finish of ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, and more.
35. RancH2O Classic Marg
Amelia Lettieri is the brains and beauty behind RancH2O. As a Dallas native, she knows a thing or two about good cocktails, and when she had the brilliant idea to create a line of ready-to-drink cocktails, she knew that her hometown would be the perfect place to launch her business.
With its rich history of cowboy culture and Prohibition-era speakeasies, Dallas is the perfect setting for a brand like RancH2O.
RancH2O's canned cocktails are all about giving people a great-tasting, low-calorie option for drinking. The flavors are all perfect mixes of real liquor and delicious fruits. At only 6.5% to 7.0% ABV and 150 calories per can, these drinks are perfect for people who want to enjoy a cocktail without feeling guilty or boozy afterward.
If there's one thing Americans can all agree on, it's that the classic Margarita is a national treasure. And at RancH2O, they've taken this beloved beverage and put their own spin on it.
The Classic Marg is deliciously crafted from lime, sparkling water, premium tequila, and a hint of orange. It is quite sweet but only mildly tart compared to Margaritas prepared in bars.
36. Revel Avila Spritz - Guava + Toasted Coconut + Kaffir Lime - Best Flavor Combo
In 2018, Revel Spirits broke new ground with their Avila line of canned sparkling agave drinks. They were one of the first companies in this category and have been trailblazing it ever since!
Their success is owed to their dedication to authenticity, led by founder Micah McFarlane and later joined by This is Us actor Justin Hartley. The duo shares the same passion for Mexican spirits and agave, and it’s evident in how they give attention to detail in their processes.
Revel Avila Spritz can be enjoyed with a guilt-free conscience as it's made from pure ingredients along with 100% pure agave nectar sourced exclusively in Morelos, Mexico.
Furthermore, its sparkling thirst-quenchers contain 6% of alcohol and no gluten. Revel is also prominent for its flavor combinations, such as the Guava + Toasted Coconut + Kaffir Lime.
From the name alone, it gives an idea of how this drink will taste like a party in your mouth. It's a fun and festive blend of sweet and tart, with a hint of coconut that will have you feeling like you're on a beach in the middle of paradise.
The guava notes in this drink are definitely prominent in the drink, and the toasted coconut flakes and Kaffir limes add a nice balance that keeps this drink from being too saccharine.
37. Social Hour Whiskey Mule
Welcome to the age of convenience, where you can have a delicious cocktail in a ready-to-drink pop can. This was the initiative that prompted famed bartenders Julie Reiner and Tom Macy of the Clover Club in New York to develop the Social Hour brand, specializing in full-proof cocktails in a can.
Their recipes have been perfected over many years due to their dedication to making the best cocktails .
They spent many years planning stages from start to finish to create an innovative and unique list of canned cocktails. Finally, over the course of the 2020 summer, the creators launched 7 cocktail recipes—Pacific Spritz, Whiskey Sour, Sunkissed Fizz, Prizefighter, Strawberry Rhubarb Spritz, Gin & Tonic, and the Whiskey Mule.
They chose the simpler highball style because it was easy to market, but they also planned for the idea to evolve into something more engaging for customers.
Social Hour's version of the well-loved Whiskey Mule Cocktail is the perfect drink for anyone who wants something with a little kick but doesn't skimp on flavor. It is crafted by concocting citrus-forward ginger beer from the same company and 3 to 6-year-old Brooklyn-distilled rye whiskey. The mixture results in a zesty and bracing drink with enough spice and heat.
38. Square One Organic Spirits Sparkling Vodka Cocktail
Wouldn’t it be great to have easy access to organic cocktails? That's the idea behind Square One Organic Spirits, founded by Allison Evanow, who loves alcohol but wanted eco-friendly made spirit cocktails—thus, she established Square One.
Square One Organic Spirits is an innovative company that creates eco-conscious spirits and mixed drinks using only 100% natural ingredients. Allison also observed that people nowadays, particularly Millennials and Gen Zs, are more concerned about their consumption.
That’s why Square One Organic Cocktails have been carefully crafted with high-quality vodka, incorporated with real juice and botanical extracts without the influence of artificial preservatives or flavorings. Furthermore, their 12-oz. cans have 7.5% ABV, only 120 calories, and 10 grams of sugar.
One of their four flavors is the Pear of Roses, a nice and light blend of juicy pear and tart lemon accentuated by a floral vibe with lavender, rose, and rosemary.
It certainly lets out an elegant taste that’s light and not too sweet, perfect to have for a calming afternoon in a garden.
39. St Hildie’s Elderberry Hibiscus - Best for Health Enthusiasts
St Hildie’s Botanical Seltzer was established by three bright women, Christine Peck, Meghan DeRoma, and Alexi Cashen, who like drinking and following a healthy lifestyle.
Their approach to their products incorporates tradition and modernity to create drinks focusing on botanical flavors. Their wellness-inspired cocktail line takes its name from a 12th-century saint, mystic, and mother of botanicals—St Hildegard von Bingen.
Since St Hildie's Botanical Cocktails revolve around the healthy theme, their drinks are made from real juice, light alcohol, and adaptogenic and nootropic tinctures.
St. Hildie’s RTD cocktails contain 5% ABV, are zero-sugar, low-calorie, and gluten-free, which can help reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and more. Whether you want an uplifting boost or some healthy incentives, these cocktails have what it takes.
Their most famous flavor is Elderberry Hibiscus which has a delicately rich taste. It starts off with the nose giving you waves of elderberry and hibiscus. Upon tasting it, you can experience the same flavors on your taste buds, complementing lemon and pear notes.
It also has a touch of Pink Himalayan salt for added complexity and rounding out the flavors.
40. Onda Tequila Seltzer - Grapefruit
In July 2020, actress and producer Shay Mitchell, together with her co-founders, established Onda, a company specializing in delicious beach-inspired tequila seltzers. Their brand name, "Onda," is derived from the Spanish word for "wave."
The 90's-esque products are mindfully made from all-natural ingredients such as a specific Blanco tequila and are characterized by bright and colorful cans that have quickly become a favorite.
The team knew they had found the perfect source for their tequila base in Casa Maestri. Not only is Casa Maestri, a female-owned company, but it also produces high-quality tequila. Onda is now available in eight delicious flavors, four of which are tropical-inspired.
One of their frontrunner flavors is grapefruit, inspired by the cocktail, Paloma. Each can has 5% ABV, and 100 calories.
It contains both grapefruit and lime juice, which might be the culprit behind its citrusy scent that wavers complemented with a hint of clementine oranges. It's not overly sweet and gives a very natural and refreshing zesty taste.
Meanwhile, it has a musty vegetal undertone, which indicates tequila; that's just the right amount to blend with the citrus flavors. Upon tasting it, you'll notice its lightness on the palate with a certain creaminess reminiscent of cream soda. It is a fantastic drink option when going to the beach!
41. Spritz Society Blood Orange
Spritz Society is shaking up the wine and RTD world with its unique take on the classic spritz. The company was founded by a team of social media influencers and entrepreneurs headed by Ben Soffer, so it's no surprise that Spritz Society has quickly accumulated a devoted following.
Using only natural ingredients, Spritz Society's offered the canned cocktail industry their fresh-tasting beverages in August 2021, featuring four different flavors. They made their first-time appearance at the San Francisco International Wine Competition during the fall, where their Grapefruit Spritz won an award in the Premixed Wine Cocktail category.
Moreover, Spritz Society's beverages are produced in Sonoma with white wine made from 100% Californian-harvested grapes and natural fruit flavors.
Additionally, their 8.4-oz drinks have an ABV of 6% and 120 calories. Spritz Society believes that good times should be refreshing, easy, and full of flavor—just like their drinks!
Their Blood Orange Spritz tastes a tad bit like their award-winning grapefruit spritz, except it's more tangy and sour. It also has an evident note of bitterness, reminiscent of a pulpy orange juice's dry and vegetal quality.
In general, the blood orange is very rich in citrusy notes with a subtle sweetness, quite akin to the Aperol Spritz .
42. Cantina Tequila Soda Ranch Water
Cantina Tequila Soda is the latest brainchild of Brandon Cason and Daniel Barnes, who are also the geniuses behind the Canteen Vodka brand! This game-changing beverage was launched in April 2021 to provide the perfect mix of refreshment, flavor, and alcohol content.
One of the flavors debuted by Cantina Tequila Soda was Ranch Water. This is a mixture of authentic Blanco Tequila with natural lime flavors and sea salt. The tequila is stronger than the subtle lime on the palate, but the lime aromas overpower the other components by a slight difference.
Overall, its complex scent and taste are rich but not overwhelming. A can of the Ranch Water Tequila Soda has an ABV of 5.6% with 99 calories. Moreover, it has only 1 gram of carbohydrates and 0 grams of total sugars.
The authentic West Texas ranch water tastes like a fresh slice of lime in your glass. It has just enough tequila flavor to make it satisfying, but not so much that you can't enjoy this drink without feeling guilty for having another one!
Best Canned Cocktails - What to Look For
Canned cocktails have become more popular since the pandemic started as people can't always go out to drink in nightclubs or bars. If you’re on the hunt for the best canned cocktails, check out the following factors, so you'll easily know what you want.
-
Flavor
It's important to know what flavor you're looking for first. If you're a fan of fruity drinks, there are plenty of options available, from mango margaritas to strawberry daiquiris.
But if you want a classic one, like a gin and tonic or a vodka soda might be more up your alley. And if you like your cocktails on the sweeter side, there are plenty of options for those as well—from muddled cherry mojitos to peach bellinis.
-
Price
Some brands of canned cocktails tend to be more expensive than others. Higher prices may indicate higher-quality ingredients or a larger quantity of alcohol per serving. Additionally, some cocktails can come in different serving sizes, which can also affect overall costs.
By considering the price, you can ensure that you get the most bang for your buck and end up with a drink that truly delivers taste and quality.
Ultimately, no ideal price point fits every situation; rather, it is up to each consumer to decide how much they're willing to spend for a delightful drink.
-
Health Benefits / Nutritional Facts
Canned cocktails are a convenient and portable option for enjoying your favorite drinks, but you shouldn't overlook what they can bring to the table healthwise. Many canned cocktails are labeled gluten-free, which are great options if you are on a gluten-free diet or have celiac disease.
Some brands also offer reduced-calorie or light options that are better for those watching their waistlines. If you have any dietary restrictions, check the ingredients list to ensure that the cocktail is safe for you to consume.
-
Accessibility
Some brands are only available in certain stores, while others can be found online. If you live in a rural area, you may not have access to the same brands as someone who lives in a city. If you're looking for a specific flavor or type of cocktail, you may need to do some research to determine if that brand is accessible to you.
-
Alcohol Content
Checking a canned cocktail's ABV will also help you determine which option best suits your individual preferences and keep you safe by ensuring that the chosen cocktail does not contain excessive amounts of alcohol.
Different brands vary in their ABV levels, with 6.25% to 15% ABV being the standard for most mainstream offerings. Beyond 25% is a more premium option for those looking for a stronger drink.
-
Shelf Life
It's important to remember that not all canned cocktails have the same shelf life. Some cocktails only last for six months, while others can last for up to a year. So, before you purchase a canned cocktail, make sure to check the expiration date. Otherwise, you might end up with a drink that's past its prime, making it flat and stale.
Ready to Drink Cocktails FAQ
1. How do I store canned cocktails?
Just like any other alcohol, cocktails will last the longest when stored in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard. If you like to keep them cold, a refrigerator will do too. The main thing to avoid is storing them in direct sunlight, as this can cause the cans to deteriorate and the contents to spoil.
2. Are canned cocktails good for you?
There's no assurance that every canned cocktail is good for the body because it still depends on how a specific cocktail was made.
Some people argue that canned cocktails are not as healthy as freshly-made drinks because they contain added sugar, preservatives, and artificial flavoring. However, proponents of canned cocktails point to the many vitamins and minerals that are present in these beverages.
3. Are there any health risks linked with drinking canned cocktails?
While there are no definitive studies on the health risks of drinking canned cocktails, there are some potential concerns that drinkers should be aware of.
Many canned cocktails may contain large amounts of sugar, leading to weight gain and other health problems. In addition, the preservatives and additives in canned cocktails can sometimes cause allergic reactions or other gastrointestinal issues—so make sure you do your research and know what’s good for you before purchasing.
3. Can I give canned cocktails as a gift?
Of course! These ready-to-drink beverages are the perfect way to show a friend or loved one a new brand of delicious drinks. Whether you want to treat someone on their special day or simply send them a little message of support, canned cocktails are an upbeat and enjoyable option.
4. What is the ideal way to serve a canned cocktail?
Start by chilling the can in the fridge or freezer for a bit, as this will help ensure that your drink is extra refreshing. Once it's cold, go ahead and pour it into a glass. You can add a cocktail garnish such as a slice of citrus fruit or a sprig of mint if you like. If you don't want to do all these preparations, you're also free to drink it straight from the can!
Conclusion
Spring only comes once a year, so celebrate this gorgeous season by drinking the best canned cocktails with your family and friends. Canned cocktails make it very convenient to satisfy your cravings for crisp and flavorful beverages no matter where you are.
We hope this list helped you choose the best canned cocktail you’d like to try next. Do you have a special cocktail recipe you’d like to share? Or would you consider starting a cocktail-making business? Share your thoughts in the comments.