The increasing popularity of ready-to-drink cocktails has led to a surge in innovative and quality products. While there are still many subpar offerings in the canned category, wineries and mixologists are adding thoughtful selections to the mix. Here are four recommendations – two premade cocktails and two wine-based releases – to enjoy this long weekend and beyond.
Bread & Butter Rosé (United States), $6.95 / 250 ml
Made in California, this crowd-pleasing rosé makes the most of its pretty floral and ripe fruit (watermelon, berry) notes. The slight sweetness adds to the smooth texture and character of this medium-bodied pink wine. 10 g/L residual sweetness, 12.5 per cent abv. Available at the above price in Ontario, $9.29 / 250 ml in British Columbia. (Also comes in 750 ml glass bottle: $23.99 in British Columbia, various prices in Alberta, $22.99 in Saskatchewan, $23.99 in Manitoba, $24.49 in Nova Scotia, $26.29 in Prince Edward Island, $25.99 in Newfoundland.)
Dillon’s Strawberry Rhubarb and a Zest of Lime Gin Cocktail (Canada), $3.40 / 473 mL
Niagara-based Dillon’s continues to expand its range of vodka and gin-based canned cocktails. This pre-made strawberry rhubarb gin cocktail is a winner thanks to its fresh and vibrant fruit flavours. It’s tasty out of the can or served on the rocks in a highball glass. 5 per cent abv. Available direct, dillons.ca, various prices in Alberta, $3.99 in Manitoba, $4.49 in New Brunswick, $4.69 in Prince Edward Island.
Founder’s Original Tequila Paloma (Canada), $3.35 / 355 ml
Toronto-based Founder’s produces a range of ready to drink cocktails, including this popular pre-made paloma that offers a flavourful sweet and sour mix of blanco tequila, citrus bitters, grapefruit juice and lime with some herbal notes that add interest. This effervescent and citrusy cocktail is best enjoyed served over ice, garnish with a wedge of grapefruit to further elevate the experience. 7 per cent abv. Available at the above price in Ontario, $15.29 for 4 x 355 ml cans in British Columbia, various prices in Alberta and Saskatchewan, $14.99 for 4 x 355 ml cans in Manitoba.
Rosehall Run Pixie Petite Rosé Spritzer (Canada), $3.95 / 355 ml
Based on a tank-fermented blend of vidal and pinot noir, this sparkling wine spritzer is balanced and refreshing, with a pleasant mix of berry and citrus notes. The style is light and approachable, which can be enjoyed out of the can or served over ice to beat the heat. 5.5 per cent abv. Available at the above price in Ontario, $94.80 for 24 x 355 ml cans, direct rosehallrun.com