Sazerac has launched three RTD brands in its home market as the US spirits giant continues to expand in a growing product category.
The roll-out comprises two whiskey-based products – Endless Afternoon Whiskey Lemonade and Buckhorn Whiskey Lemonade – and a vodka-based RTD called Lovebug Hard Cream Soda.
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Sazerac said it was “building a next-generation RTD portfolio”. A spokesperson said the three new products “offer differentiated flavour experiences and drinking occasions that expand beyond more traditional RTD formats”.
Sazerac global growth and Innovation director Lauren Selman added: “Consumers are looking for more than just another canned drink. They want real spirits, bold flavour and brands that make every occasion more fun.”
Lovebug Hard Cream Soda, which Sazerac said was the first vodka-based cream soda RTD, is dairy-free and comes in 12oz cans at 5% abv. The company is launching the product in four flavours: Vanilla ’n Cream, Cherries ’n Cream, Cola ’n Cream and Peaches ’n Cream.
Endless Afternoon, positioned for “laid-back summer days”, also come in 12oz cans but at 9% abv. Again, Sazerac is rolling out four variants: Original Lemonade, Peach Lemonade, Blackberry Lemonade and Ginger Lemonade.
Buckhorn Whiskey Lemonade has a lower abv at 7% and comes in four flavours: Classic Whiskey Lemonade, Peach Whiskey Lemonade, Blackberry Whiskey Lemonade and Honey Whiskey Lemonade.
Sazerac said the three RTD ranges are available at “select retailers” nationwide in eight-pack variety formats, with a suggested retail price of $18.99.
Earlier this month, the spirits giant launched a line of “vodka water” RTDs under its Svedka brand in the US.
Svedka Vodka Water, which comes in see-through packaging, was “the world’s first transparent canned vodka water”, Sazerac said.
In May, Sazerac acquired an equity interest in Sipmargs, the RTD margarita brand backed by social media influencer Alix Earle. In March, the group also snapped up the Dirty Shirley cocktail brand.
