Sazerac is doubling down on the rapidly growing ready-to-drink cocktail category with the launch of two new whiskey-based canned cocktail brands: Endless Afternoon Whiskey Lemonade and Buckhorn Whiskey Lemonade. Announced as part of a broader RTD expansion, the new offerings arrive just in time for summer and reflect increasing consumer demand for convenient, flavor-forward cocktails made with real spirits.
According to Nielsen data cited by Sazerac, the U.S. spirit-based RTD category has grown more than 23% over the past 52 weeks, making it one of the fastest-growing segments in beverage alcohol. The company’s latest releases are designed to capture a range of drinking occasions while emphasizing authentic whiskey flavor and approachable profiles.
Endless Afternoon Brings Premium Whiskey Lemonade to Summer Gatherings
Positioned as a refreshing, easy-drinking whiskey cocktail, Endless Afternoon Whiskey Lemonade combines real whiskey with real lemon juice from concentrate to create a bright and flavorful RTD experience. Bottled at 9% ABV, the lineup is designed for backyard barbecues, tailgates, pool days, and leisurely afternoons with friends.
The brand launches with four flavor expressions:
- Original Lemonade
- Peach Lemonade
- Blackberry Lemonade
- Ginger Lemonade
At a higher proof point than many traditional canned cocktails, Endless Afternoon aims to balance whiskey character with refreshing citrus flavors while maintaining broad appeal for casual drinking occasions.
“Consumers are looking for more than just another canned drink. They want real spirits, bold flavor, and brands that make every occasion more fun,” said Lauren Selman, Global Growth and Innovation Director at Sazerac. “We’re incredibly excited to bring these new offerings to market. Each one was created to deliver the quality, taste, and personality consumers expect while making it easier than ever to enjoy great cocktails wherever the moment takes them.”
Buckhorn Expands Into RTDs with Whiskey Lemonade Lineup
Sazerac is also extending its Buckhorn Bourbon Whiskey brand into the RTD category for the first time with the introduction of Buckhorn Whiskey Lemonade. Designed with outdoor occasions in mind, Buckhorn combines blended whiskey, real lemon juice from concentrate, and fruit-forward flavors to create an approachable canned cocktail experience.
Bottled at 7% ABV, Buckhorn Whiskey Lemonade debuts with four varieties:
- Classic Whiskey Lemonade
- Peach Whiskey Lemonade
- Blackberry Whiskey Lemonade
- Honey Whiskey Lemonade
The new line targets traditional whiskey consumers looking for convenient ready-to-drink options suitable for camping trips, fishing excursions, tailgates, and backyard gatherings.
Sazerac Continues Investing in Spirit-Based RTD Growth
The simultaneous launches of Endless Afternoon and Buckhorn Whiskey Lemonade highlight Sazerac’s continued investment in spirit-based ready-to-drink cocktails. While both brands feature whiskey and lemon as their foundation, they occupy distinct positions within the market, with Endless Afternoon emphasizing elevated, sessionable cocktails and Buckhorn leaning into traditional outdoor whiskey occasions.
As consumer preferences continue shifting toward premium canned cocktails made with recognizable spirits, Sazerac’s newest whiskey RTDs further expand the company’s footprint in one of the beverage industry’s most competitive and fastest-growing categories.
Availability and Pricing
Both Endless Afternoon Whiskey Lemonade and Buckhorn Whiskey Lemonade are now rolling out to select retailers nationwide in eight-pack variety formats. Each carries a suggested retail price of $18.99.
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