What’s the Deal with RTDs (Ready to Drink)?

If you’ve walked through Boone’s lately, you’ve probably noticed the shelves filling up with colorful cans and sleek little bottles that aren’t beer, wine, or traditional spirits. Those are RTDs—short for “Ready to Drink”—and they’re blowing up right now. Whether you’re a cocktail lover or just looking for something easy to toss in the cooler, there’s a good reason why RTDs are having a moment.

RTDs are exactly what they sound like: pre-mixed drinks that are ready to crack open and enjoy. No measuring, no mixing, no fancy tools. Just chill, open, and sip. They come in all kinds of formats—classic cocktails, fruity spritzes, spiked lemonades, hard teas, espresso martinis, margaritas, you name it. Some even lean zero sugar or low calorie, which makes them extra appealing for warm weather or casual sipping.

So why are these so popular all of a sudden? A big part of it is convenience. People want something quick, easy, and still delicious—especially when hanging with friends, heading to a concert, floating the river, or just not in the mood to play bartender. RTDs are perfect for that. You get a bar-style cocktail without the work (or the mess), and you don’t need to haul around multiple bottles and mixers.

They also travel really well. Bringing a six-pack of whiskey sours or canned mojitos to a cookout just hits different. No need for a cooler full of ingredients—just toss a few in with the beers and you’re good to go. They’re ideal for tailgates, camping, backyard BBQs, or just those lazy nights on the patio when you don’t want to think too hard about what to pour.

Another reason people are loving them? They’re getting way better. The early RTDs were… fine. Kind of sugary, not much flavor balance, and they didn’t taste like what you’d get at an actual bar. But now? Brands are stepping it up. Some use real spirits, fresh juices, clean ingredients, and you can actually taste the difference. There are craft distilleries and big names alike dropping their own versions, and it shows. You’ve got bourbon-based RTDs, canned Palomas with real grapefruit, even small-batch espresso martinis that actually hit.

At Boone’s, we’ve got a huge variety of them in stock—and we’re always bringing in new ones to try. Whether you want something bold, sweet, bubbly, low-ABV, or strong enough to feel like a real cocktail, we’ve got an RTD for that. If you’re not sure where to start, just ask someone in the shop. We’ve all got our favorites, and we’ll help you find yours.

So yeah, RTDs are more than just a trend—they’re changing the way people drink. And whether you’re new to them or already a fan, they’re worth checking out next time you’re at Boone’s. Pop one open and see why everyone’s hooked.