Beverage companies are creating ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails, bringing the bar experience into the comforts of home. Many new selections are low in calories, sugar or alcohol to appease health-conscious consumers, and packaged in single-serve cans, boxes or bottles for convenience.
The Merriam-Webster dictionary dates the term “mixology” back to 1872, defining it as “the art or skill of preparing mixed drinks.” Traditionally the drinks were prepared with alcoholic spirits, which is liquor that contains no added sugar and has at least 20% alcohol by volume (ABV). Think gin, rum, tequila, vodka and whiskey. Today they also are being crafted with wine and even beer. Think Moscow Mule, which combines vodka, ginger beer and lime juice.
The single-serve adult beverage category — cans, boxes and plastic bottles — had been gaining traction in recent years, as its portable, non-breakable nature made it suited for outdoor events and public gatherings. With such drinking occasions on hold for pandemic safety, retailers have started dedicating more space to the products. In municipalities that have relaxed their alcohol sales laws, the products may now be delivered and are available for curbside pickup.
“In wake of COVID-19, many consumers are unable to experience premium cocktails at bars and restaurants,” said Holly McHugh, marketing associate, Imbibe, Inc., Niles, Ill. “There’s a lot of growth potential for premium RTD cocktails that offer a similar premium drinking experience at home.”
Read the full article in Food Business News.
