Ready-to-Drink Cocktails: 5 Reasons Why RTDs Are Trending

In recent years, the popularity of ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails have taken off, being a great choice for people looking for a convenient way to enjoy their favorite cocktails. Before you’ve even sipped one, it’s easy to see why they’ve become so popular.

The rise in popularity has also led to increased recognition by judges and experts. At the Pre-Mixed & RTD Masters 2024 hosted by The Spirits Business, several standout products were honored for their excellence. Among the winners were:

• Absolut & Sprite – GOLD Medal

• Absolut Strawberry Spritz – SILVER Medal

So, why are RTDs popular you ask? Here are just five reasons why ready-to-drink cocktails are trending right now:

1. Convenience is Everything

It probably comes as no surprise that one of the main reasons RTD cocktails are becoming so popular is, of course, convenience.

The growing trend is driven by busy lifestyles and a desire for premium, craft-quality drinks that can be enjoyed without the need for mixing.

Think about it – whether you’re hosting a party, heading to a picnic, or just hanging out at home, with RTDs, you can rest assured you’ve always got quality cocktails on hand.

Instead of needing bartending tools like shakers and strainers, gathering various ingredients, and muddling and mixing your own cocktails, with RTDs, you simply pop open a can and you’ve got yourself a delicious drink.

Talking about convenience – RTDs are also portable. Simply grab and go. Whether you’re heading to the beach, a concert, or a friend’s BBQ, RTDs are easy to pack and transport. In fact, their convenience makes them pretty much ideal for any occasion, from spontaneous drop-ins to planned backyard parties without having to prepare in advance or batch-make cocktails.

2. Consistent Quality

Another advantage of RTD cocktails is consistency. With these ready-made cocktails, you know that each drink will have the same great flavor.

With RTDs, you know exactly what you’re getting every time. The consistent quality and flavor ensure a satisfying drinking experience without any guesswork.

Ready-to-drink cocktails are a great option if you appreciate a well-made cocktail but may not have the expertise or patience to create one from scratch.

3. Cocktails for Every Taste Preference

Be it an Espresso Martini or a Mango Mule, there’s an RTD out there for you. The quality of RTDs have also increased in recent years, reaching standards perhaps never thought before.

The wide range of flavors and styles available means there’s something for everyone. Check out our article we wrote for International Canned Cocktail Day where we highlight some of our cocktail favorites.

4. Award-Winning Craftsmanship

As mentioned at the top of this article, Absolut had two products that were honored for at the Pre-Mixed & RTD Masters 2024 hosted by The Spirits Business.

Absolut & Sprite, the merging of two iconic brands, mixes smooth premium vodka with crisp lemon-lime soda. This RTD favorite took home a gold medal, while Absolut Strawberry Spritz, a delightful mix of vodka, sparkling water, and natural strawberry flavor, earned a well-deserved silver medal.

These recent awards are a testament to the craftsmanship that go into creating top-tier RTD cocktails.

5. Quality Cocktails at Home

A recent study reveals that 63% of Gen Z prefer to host at home rather than go out to bars. Therefore, serving RTDs are a win-win. You can impress your friends by serving great drinks at home without mixing drinks yourself. Cheers to that!

No need for a well-stocked home bar nor the need to purchase ingredients. Instead, you skip the crowds, save time and create great moments with friends over delicious RTD cocktails.

Want to see more of Absolut’s ready-to-drink products? Explore our products here.