Words by Helena (@Helenasips)
There is a drinks trend sweeping the US that is now also hitting home shores in the UK: Canned drinks. Cocktails! Hard Seltzers! Usually low calorie, low alcohol, pretty natural, affordable and easily recyclable, it’s easy to see why this is a trend that is going to be here to stay. It’s buzzing but a lighter way and after trying lots recently, I am a convert. Here are some new drinks that I have particularly enjoyed. I suggest you all seek them out!
Dona Sofia CBD infused G&T
Just launched in the UK, I really love this drink. The tonic isn’t as bitter as some and has riper citrusy flavours - not unlike a decent lemonade. It’s exceptionally drinkable, with just the right level of buzz and bitter. CBD with a small amount of alcohol is an intriguing combination; it’s like the booze jump starts the relaxing properties of the CBD. Exceptional value too currently at £2 a tin when you buy in 6, 12 or 24. Look out for their Rum & Cola and Vodka & Lime launching next month! NOTE: CBD is the health giving part of Cannabis, not the psychoactive part, which is THC. This is why it’s ok to blend it with alcohol.
ABV: 5%
CBD: 10mg
Find it here. RRP £12 for 6 cans.
Session Sake - Yuzu & Cucumber, by Kanpai, London
Made by the first London Sake brewery Kanpai, this delicious, modern take on Sake is a great way to start with the drink if you’re not familiar with it. This naturally fermented junmai sake (brewed from rice) is blended with Japanese yuzu and British cucumber to create a seriously refreshing, light and sparkling drink that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues and long evenings in the garden. Lovers of sake should check out the rest of their shop too and visit them in person for tastings again very soon.
ABV: 5.5%
Find it here. RRP £4.50
58 Gin Hard Seltzer
Just launched, these premium gin hard seltzers come from the people who create the well loved 58 Gin and use only natural ingredients. Currently available in Raspberry or Grapefruit in beautiful looking, fully recyclable tins, they are super fresh and fruity without being cloying in any way. Lovely, natural fruit flavours and that characteristic kick from the juniper. It’s low calorie (67 cals per can), vegan and gluten free so suitable for just about anyone. Yum!
ABV: 4% abv
Find them here at Master of Malt for £2.50 amongst other retailers.
Smirnoff Seltzers
The world’s No. 1 vodka has been quick to answer the demand for hard seltzers in the UK and are now launching here with two incredibly moreish drinks made with vodka and naturally flavoured water. Raspberry & Rhubarb is subtle on the sweetness with a lovely tang that keeps you coming back for more. The Orange & Grapefruit has more zip and a bitter kick that complements the vodka. Inexpensive and easy to drink, these are perfect for hot summer days.
ABV: 4.7% abv
Find them in supermarkets such as Sainsbury’s for £1.55 a can.
Bodega Bay Hard Seltzer
Pure, filtered alcohol and soft water are blended with a splash of natural flavours to create these ultra refreshing drinks. Using more unusual ingredients try the Apple, ginger and acai or the Elderflower, lemon and mint, these are a more savoury, quirky choice and they absolutely deliver. Brilliant value too at £2 a can, you can buy them in packs of 8 or 12.
ABV: 4% abv
Find them here.
For other great drinks in a can check out Mad Bean Vanilla Iced Coffee and for something a bit different take a look at The World’s First Peated Tomato Juice