There is a long history of companies trying to make cocktails in a can and, up to now, there have been varying results. But there is now a company that has managed to create something really tasty. Cocktail Squad was created by Lauren and John Maggio. Lauren was born and raised in New Orleans, so it’s fair to say that the Laissez les Bon Temps Rouler attitude runs deep in her soul.
A few years ago, Lauren was immersed in the world of raising four young children. Actively trying to find a balance between her old and new life, she rarely had babysitter back-up and dinners out were not a frequent affair. Frequently, Lauren and John were passing ships but when they could, they would steal away to catch up.
On one such occasion, the couple met at the bar of a new restaurant in Boulder and had a great cocktail. Having returned to the bar for more, they realised they couldn’t do this all the time and asked the barman for the recipe. He kindly obliged. Having made the cocktail for themselves, they thought: wouldn’t others like a cocktail that was ready to drink? And wouldn’t it be even better if it was in a can and therefore portable? With John’s experience of guiding companies in the food and beverage arena, Lauren knew she had the beginnings of something special.
They have six cocktails in the range which are all different and all very good. They are: the Greyhound, Gin and Tonic, Margarita, Vodka Soda, a Whisky Sour and a Bourbon Smash. If you have any of these cocktails made for you in a bar, they will vary in flavour and quality. I’ve had incredibly simple cocktails in one bar and then the same in another bar, only a few streets away, and it’s been terrible. The great advantage of the Cocktail Squad cocktails is the consistency. They will always taste great, and the next one will taste just as good as the last one! All are 10% ABV, gluten free and should retail at $4.99 – $5.99 per can and $20 – $24 per four pack.
The cocktails in their range have won many awards. Launched in 2018, they boast fifteen to date with some gold awards in the mix too. The Whisky Smash took gold in the Sunset International Spirits Competition in 2019 and the Greyhound won gold in the New York Spirits Competition in the same year.
People might say that it’s easy enough to make some of these cocktails at home. Whilst I can agree with that, it’s pretty tricky taking your perfectly-made cocktail out with you. The can is hugely convenient and no other mixers are needed. Perfect for any excursion, picnic, BBQ, rock concert or any situation where you’d like quick and easy access to a delicious drink.
My only complaint is that having enjoyed these in the USA, I can’t get them at home in the UK. So I’ll be booking my ticket back as soon as I can.