Sazerac creates three new RTD brands for US
The ready-to-drink (RTD) push continues for Sazerac, with the BuzzBallz owner launching three new canned spirits-based brands in the US.
Timed for summer, the three brands – Lovebug Hard Cream Soda, Endless Afternoon Whiskey Lemonade, and Buckhorn Whiskey Lemonade – are each said to provide a distinct RTD experience.
Sazerac’s global growth and innovation director, Lauren Selman, said: “Consumers are looking for more than just another canned drink. They want real spirits, bold flavour, and brands that make every occasion more fun.
“We’re incredibly excited to bring these new offerings to market. Each one was created to deliver the quality, taste, and personality consumers expect while making it easier than ever to enjoy great cocktails wherever the moment takes them.”
Sazerac has made several investments in the RTD space this year, including the acquisition of Dirty Shirley, a partnership with Alix Earle-backed SipMargs, and the introduction of a canned Vodka Water range for Svekda. The company also owns BuzzBallz, the fastest-growing RTD in the UK.
RTDs have been called a “beacon of hope” for the alcohol industry by the IWSR, as the only major alcohol category expected to see growth in 2026. The category surpassed vodka in global value last year, according to IWSR data.
In the US, spirit-based RTDs have shone in particular. The segment grew by 14% in the market last year, which came at the expense of malt-based products.
The new brands
Lovebug Hard Cream Soda is described as a ‘nostalgic twist on soda’ and a ‘category-first innovation’ as the first vodka-based cream soda. It has four flavours: Vanilla ‘n Cream, Cherries’ n Cream, Cola’ n Cream, and Peaches’ n Cream.
The brand aims to tap into the demand for nostalgia by blending cream soda flavours with a vodka base. The 350ml canned RTDs are dairy- and sugar-free, contain 100 calories, and have an ABV of 5%.
Endless Afternoon Whiskey Lemonade is described as a ‘refreshing line of whiskey lemonades’ suited for laid-back summer days, including backyard barbecues and tailgating.
Sazerac said the drinks are made with real whiskey and real lemon juice from concentrate. The range contains four flavours – Original Lemonade, Peach Lemonade, Blackberry Lemonade, and Ginger Lemonade – with each sitting at 9% ABV.
Buckhorn Whiskey Lemonade marks the Buckhorn Bourbon Whiskey brand’s RTD entry. The new brand combines Buckhorn’s blended whiskey with real lemon juice from concentrate and ‘bold’ fruit flavours.
The range includes four flavours: Classic Whiskey Lemonade, Peach Whiskey Lemonade, Blackberry Whiskey Lemonade, and Honey Whiskey Lemonade. Each expression clocks in at 7% ABV, with the range built for outdoor occasions such as fishing trips, camping weekends, and backyard hangouts.
The three brands are available at select retailers nationwide in the US, in eight-pack variety formats with a suggested retail price of $18.99.
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