Summer is here, and the world of ready-to-drink beverage alcohol has been busy with new arrivals. 

 

Pint-sized gin drink launches in UK

Drinks start up Lonkero has launched its Finnish long drink made from gin, grapefruit, soda, and botanicals, in the UK. The 5.5% ABV drink is available online in cans, or on tap at select London and Edinburgh venues. Founder Joe Harris said: “We spotted a gap in the market for consumers who seeked a pint-sized, refreshing alternative to beer or cider.”

 

CAFÉ SOLO releases ready-to-drink Espresso Martini

Cold brew coffee liqueur brand CAFÉ SOLO has revealed its first RTD cocktail, an Espresso Martini. The release is the second product from the brand, which launched its liqueur in April 2024. The canned Espresso Martinis, which are “bar strength quality” at 15% ABV, are available online at RRP £3.99 each. 

 

Mirror Margarita picked up by supermarket

Premixed cocktail Mirror Margarita has gained a supermarket listing nationwide in UK supermarket Sainsbury’s. The clear Margarita began as a serve in London bar Hacha, created by mixologist Deano Moncrieffe. The RTD cocktail is presented in a five-serve 500ml bottle, at 15% ABV. Moncrieffe said: “We believe the new product will resonate with people who are already fans of Mexican spirits, but also the innovation behind the recipe with its crystal-clear appearance will intrigue new audiences. The future of cocktail making is here!’’

 

BrewDog adds to RTD lineup

BrewDog Distilling Co has released five new serves under its RTD brand Wonderland Cocktails. Wonderland launched in 2023 with five original flavours. The additions to the brand’s lineup are the Cosmo (using BrewDog’s Abstrakt vodka), Strawberry Daiquiri, Long Island Iced Tea, Watermelon Margarita (with BrewDog’s Casa Rayos Tequila), and a Whisky Sour. The new cocktails are available via BrewDog online and at its UK venues. 

 

Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop arrives in UK

Gin & Juice, the RTD canned beverage created by rappers Snoop Dogg and Dr Dre, inspired by Snoop Dogg’s 1994 song “Gin & Juice”, was released in the UK in July. The brand launched its four flavours (Citrus, Melon, Passionfruit, and Apricot) in the US in February 2024. In the UK, Gin & Juice will be available from select independent retailers, at music festivals, and online. The By Dre and Snoop brand has teased more spirits products launching soon. 

 

Lockdown Liquor Co bottles Mezcal Picante

London-based cocktail company Lockdown Liquor Co has released new serve Mezcal Picante in collaboration with mezcal company the Lost Explorer. The bottled release is a mezcal take on Lockdown Liquor Co’s Tequila-based Picante. 

 

Catch up on the ready-to-drink news from June here.