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Have you noticed how parties, backyard barbecues, and low-key nights in are all getting a flavor upgrade? Flavored alcoholic beverages have exploded in popularity for a reason: they’re approachable, portable, and come in tastes that make sipping feel like a treat. From citrusy hard seltzers to ready-to-drink spritzes and flavored malt coolers, these drinks fit a lot of occasions. If you want something light and refreshing or a cocktail without the bar skills, flavored options deliver. In this article I’ll walk you through the types, the best places to buy them in the US—like Walmart and specialty retailers—and how to pick a winner for your next gathering.
Not all flavored alcoholic drinks are the same. Broadly, you’ll encounter hard seltzers and spiked sparkling drinks, RTD (ready-to-drink) cocktails, flavored malt beverages, and flavored spirits or infusions. Each category has its own texture, alcohol level, and flavor profile. Knowing the differences helps you choose the right drink for the vibe you want—crisp and cold by the pool, or complex and cocktail-like for dinner.
Hard seltzers are carbonated, flavored, and light on calories. Think of them as fizzy flavored water with alcohol—usually around 4% to 6% ABV—and big on convenience. Brands like White Claw and Truly started the trend, but now you’ll find craft and premium options that use real fruit juice or natural botanicals. These are perfect when you want something refreshing that won’t weigh you down.
RTD cocktails bring the bar to your hands. These are premixed negronis, margaritas, spritzes, and more, often served in cans or bottles in single-serve sizes like 8.5 fl oz or 12 fl oz. Premium RTDs aim for complexity—botanicals, barrel notes, and balanced bitters—while mainstream versions focus on classic flavors and convenience. They’re ideal when you want a well-mixed cocktail without measuring or shaking.
Flavored malt beverages (FMBs) are typically sweeter and fruit-forward. They emerged as flavored “coolers” and are brewed on a malt base similar to beer but flavored heavily and often lower in alcohol. Popular with people who prefer sweeter, fruitier profiles, FMBs are staples at picnics and casual parties—think beverage that tastes like juice but packs a buzz.
Flavored spirits and infused liquors give you the flexibility of making cocktails while bringing unique flavor notes right into the bottle—like citrus vodka, berry gin, or cinnamon whiskey. They’re great for at-home mixologists who want to craft flavored cocktails without buying a ton of mixers. A little goes a long way in a cocktail, so these bottles can be a cost-effective way to explore new taste directions.
When it comes to buying flavored alcoholic beverages, choice and availability matter. Big-box retailers, liquor superstores, and regional chains all play a role. Walmart stands out for national reach and budget-friendly packs, while specialists like Total Wine & More and BevMo! offer deeper selections and staff recommendations. Grocery chains such as Kroger and Target also stock popular cans and RTD options, and wholesale clubs like Costco are unbeatable for value on variety packs.
Walmart often carries a broad cross-section of flavored drinks—from mainstream hard seltzers to RTD spritzes and even non-alcoholic sparkling alternatives. Examples you might see include smaller sparkling cans and variety packs in single-serve sizes, such as 8.5 fl oz cans and 12 fl oz options in multi-packs. If you’re stocking for a crowd and want predictable pricing, Walmart is a convenient first stop.
Total Wine & More is the place to go if you want breadth and advice. This chain carries everything from mass-market flavored malt beverages to craft RTDs and premium ready-to-serve cocktails. Expect staff picks, tasting notes, and an inventory that leans more adult and complex—perfect if you’re hunting for something beyond the mainstream.
On the West Coast, BevMo! is known for a strong selection of flavored cocktails and seltzers, especially seasonal releases and limited editions. If you live in California or Arizona and want trendy flavors or new RTD cocktail brands, BevMo! is worth checking. They frequently stock specialty mixers and smaller-run bottles that you won’t find at a big-box store.
Grocery chains like Kroger and Target carry a convenient selection of popular flavored beverages—especially the best-selling hard seltzers and RTD cans—in standard 12-pack and 16-pack configurations. They’re handy for quick runs and last-minute gatherings. Regional chains and independent liquor shops can also surprise you with local craft RTDs and small-batch flavored spirits.
Some brands deliver comfort and consistency, while others push flavor boundaries. White Claw and Truly remain default choices for many, but newcomers like High Noon (vodka-based seltzers), Cutwater (RTD spirits), and craft spritz brands offer different textures and flavor complexities. The data shows big retailers also list non-alcoholic sparkling brands like Töst and Rsrv’s non-alcoholic cocktail replacements, which are fantastic if you want the experience without alcohol.
If you’re new to flavored alcoholic beverages, start with the classics. White Claw and Truly offer reliable fruit-forward flavors and light carbonation that pair well with warm weather and simple snacks. They usually come in easy-to-grab 12-pack or 16-pack formats in cans roughly 12 fl oz or sometimes smaller single-serve sizes. These brands set the expectations for what a “seltzer” should taste like: crisp, citrusy, and refreshing.
For adults who want bar-quality cocktails without leaving home, look for brands like Cutwater, High Noon, and other craft-oriented RTD producers. These offerings aim for a balance of flavor, alcohol content, and natural ingredients—expect citrus oils, real fruit juice, and more nuanced bitters. They’re sold in single cans around 8.5 fl oz to 12 fl oz, and variety packs are great for tasting sessions.
Picking the right flavored drink comes down to three simple questions: How strong do you want it? Do you prefer sweet or dry? And is portability a priority? If you want something sessionable for a long afternoon, choose a low-ABV hard seltzer in 12 fl oz cans. For a date night or dinner party, reach for an RTD cocktail with a fuller profile. And if you or guests prefer no alcohol, many stores that sell flavored alcoholic beverages also stock non-alcoholic alternatives that use botanicals and sparkling water to mimic cocktail textures.
Flavored beverages can be surprisingly good at food pairing. Citrusy seltzers and spritzes cut through fried or salty dishes, while sweeter malt beverages complement spicy or barbecue flavors. For seafood or light salads, a crisp, low-calorie seltzer in a single-serve 8.5 fl oz can offers refreshment without overpowering the dish. Richer RTDs—think whiskey-based or boozy spritzes—work well with heartier mains and even chocolate-forward desserts.
Non-alcoholic flavored options have made huge strides. If you’re avoiding alcohol but want the taste and ceremony of a crafted drink, brands like Töst (a non-alcoholic sparkling beverage) and Rsrv’s non-alcoholic cocktail replacements offer sophisticated flavors such as rosé sparkling, charred citrus, juniper and florals, and more. These come in can sizes around 8.5 fl oz and in multi-packs, making them perfect for mocktail fans or designated drivers who still want flavor variety.
When shopping, consider variety packs if you like to taste-test. Multi-packs often include four or more flavors and are usually sold in 12-pack or 16-pack configurations. Single-serve cans in 8.5 fl oz or 12 fl oz are convenient for outdoor events. Store cans and bottles upright in a cool place—cold is best for seltzers and RTDs. If buying a case for a party, plan on roughly one to two drinks per guest per hour as a guideline.
More consumers are asking about ingredients and packaging. Look for brands that use natural flavors, real fruit juice, and low added sugar if that matters to you. Aluminum cans are easily recyclable, which is good news for sustainability. If you care about lower calories, check labels for calorie counts per can; many hard seltzers come in at under 120 calories per 12 fl oz, while some RTDs and flavored malt beverages may have higher counts.
Flavored alcoholic beverages have something for everyone—whether you want a light seltzer by the pool, a complex RTD cocktail for dinner, or a non-alcoholic sparkling alternative that still feels celebratory. Major retailers like Walmart make it easy to find crowd-pleasing packs, while specialty shops such as Total Wine & More and BevMo! offer deeper selections and expert recommendations. Keep an eye on ABV, sweetness, and serving size, and don’t be afraid to try variety packs to find a new favorite. With so many options now available, the next great sipping experience might be just a can away.
