Overview: Craftwell Cocktails® secured significant recognition at the 2026 Sunset International Spirits Competition, hosted by Sunset magazine. The brand from Corvallis, Ore., earned multiple gold medals and top honors for its ready-to-drink cider-based cocktails.
The Full Story
Three specific entries received high marks during the judging process. Craftwell Guava Crush led the lineup with Best of Class and Double Gold honors, receiving 94 points from judges who noted true guava paired with delicate, delicious light cider notes. Additionally, Craftwell Mango Lemon Smash and Craftwell Pineapple Margarita each earned Gold medals with 94 points.
The former was highlighted for a lovely combo of flowers and tropical fruits, while the latter displayed bright pineapple, zesty lime, and a crisp cider finish with a refreshing margarita kick. The recognition comes as the ready-to-drink cocktail category continues to evolve, with innovation in flavor, refreshment and craftsmanship shaping the space.
Production & Profile
Craftwell Cocktails® are designed to deliver the bright fruit character, balance and complexity consumers expect from a well-made cocktail in a refreshing, approachable format. The products utilize real fruit ingredients rather than artificial substitutes. Dave Takush, head cidermaker at 2 Towns Ciderhouse, stated that the brand pushes boundaries of RTD cocktails using real fruit ingredients.
What This Means
The recognition comes as the ready-to-drink cocktail category continues to evolve, with innovation in flavor, refreshment and craftsmanship shaping the space. Craftwell Cocktails® delivers familiar cocktail-inspired flavors with real fruit ingredients, bringing a fresh perspective to the category as the ready-to-drink cocktail category continues to evolve.
Consumer Takeaway
Consumers seeking authentic flavors can access these cocktails in canned, top shelf bottles, on draft, or as nonalcoholic options. The lineup offers easily portable deliciousness designed for consumers to live life with flavor and create their own cocktail moments.
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