When you’re in the middle of the holiday whirl (and who isn’t right now?) the idea of a remarkably easy cocktail that also tastes good sounds like a Christmas miracle. But happily, whether you’re hosting a party or just looking to unwind at the end of a long day, there are lots of delicious craft cocktails that just happen to be sold in cans. What are the best canned cocktails to try this holiday season, you say? Here’s our roundup of the 7 best premium canned cocktails to buy and quaff this Christmas holiday season, including vodka soda, whiskey soda, spiked eggnog, and more.
a delicious canned cocktail can be a little Christmas miracle in a busy holiday entertaining season
With the holiday entertaining season upon us, to-do lists are getting longer. A LOT longer. The host and hostess who can get to it all is a rare creature.
Most of us prioritize a few things — the decorations or the food or curating the right guest list and playlist. It’s too stressful to make everything perfect and honestly, the best parties we’ve been to have elements that are a little undone. It gives us permission to relax and be ourselves rather than be on our best behavior to fit into the fancy atmosphere.
One area that is getting increasingly stress-free is the bar. Canned cocktails are no longer a pandemic novelty and have earned their place on the shelf. According to our friends at CNBC, canned drinks were the fastest-growing spirits category last year, with $1.6 billion in revenue — a 42% percent increase from the year before. Prepared cocktails are more than just a convenience. They’re tasty and bartender-quality too. But, if you’re a traditionalist who finds themselves short on time, pour them in a glass and serve with a garnish! We won’t tell.
For your next party, we’ve curated 7 holiday-appropriate canned cocktails to serve or bring as a gift. From Negronis to eggnog flavored dessert cocktails, all you have to do is say cheers.
the 6 best canned cocktails this Christmas holiday season
1. Tip Top Negroni
The Negroni appears on our list of relevant cocktails this time of year after a video of House of Dragon stars, Emma D’Arcy and Olivia Cooke discussing their favorite drinks went viral. D’Arcy makes a sultry case for the bittersweet red-hued classic. Tip Top’s version enlists bartender, Miles Macquarrie of Kimball House, to create a balanced cocktail with notes of bright orange and grapefruit with fresh juniper.
BUY NOW: $39.99 for 8 pack.
2. Social Hour Harvest Whisky Sour
The founders of Social Hour are career bartenders and bar owners whose mission is to make quality cocktails in a can that taste like they’re made from scratch. This limited edition whisky sour with notes of cinnamon and maple is tailor made for autumn. Using George Dickel Tennessee Whisky’s 13-year-old bonded expression as a base, it tastes expertly-made whether poured over ice or heated up in a mug.
BUY NOW: $19.95 for 4 cans.
3. Buzz Ballz Chillers Eggnog
We admit that we find Buzz Ballz adorable spherical cans irresistible. Luckily, the contents within are just as delightful. Our pick for the best canned spiked eggnog delivers seasonal flavor that is creamy with flavors of vanilla custard and subtly spiced with nutmeg. It is a fun take on the classic holiday cocktail.
BUY NOW: $3.49 per can.
4. Two Chicks Sparkling Apple Gimlet
Made with premium spirits and all natural fruit and botanicals, this gin gimlet contains fall-favorite apple flavors complemented by zesty lime and crisp cucumber. The packaging goes a long way too in setting up an attractive bar.
BUY NOW: $15.99 for 4 pack.
5. Cocktail Squad Whisky Ginger Soda
Whisky and ginger are both known to fortify the body to battle the cold and grey elements making this a perfect cold-weather cocktail. At 5% ABV, this canned cocktail packs less of a punch but is still up for a good time.
BUY NOW: $5.99 per can.
6. Home School Blood Orange Manhattan
Crafted from a 4-year old bourbon and blended with house made vermouth and blood orange bitters, this delicious Manhattan is dark, rich and sultry. The bottle ensures the taste is preserved — just pour on the rocks, garnish with an orange slice and enjoy.
BUY NOW: $27.99 for 4 pack.
best canned cocktails this Christmas holiday season
That’s our take on the best craft canned cocktails to buy and quaff this Christmas holiday season, including vodka soda, whiskey soda, spiked eggnog, and more. Seven on-to-go ways to sip and be merry this holiday season.