The 12 Best Canned Cocktails

After tasting more than 45 canned cocktails, F&W Executive Wine Editor Ray Isle and I learned the following: First, it's important to check out the alcohol content before taking a big swig, as some have merely 8% ABV, while others clock in at a cool 42%. Second, hip branding does not a good product make. And third, if you're really serious about discovering gems in an oft-maligned corner of the liquor store, leave your judgment at the door and give the cans a chance.

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与很多人饮酒对我们的沙发或在我们的backyards instead of at the bar over the past few months, it's gratifying to find that the canned cocktail—or at least, several of them—has risen to the occasion. Whether you simply want to enjoy a classic Manhattan without having to make it yourself or you're missing your favorite craft cocktail bar's ability to serve the truly unexpected, there's finally something for everyone.

For when you just want a good old-fashioned drink (or a good old-fashioned).

If you love ginger with a side of ginger, this is for you. The hint of lime on the finish tastes good enough to pass for freshly squeezed.$6 atproofcocktail.com

This old-fashioned is a faithful rendition sure to impress traditionalists craving a punch of orange bitters and bourbon.$32 for 8 attiptopcocktails.com

At 38% ABV, Dashfire does this underdog justice by swapping vermouth for elder- flower liqueur and angostura for grape- fruit bitters.$6 atdashfire.us

A drink to aid those rare, critical moments when you need to feel both tipsy and caffeinated—say, dinner with extended family.$19 atdrinkdeloce.com

For when you need something classier than White Claw.

Boston-based distillery Bully Boy's spritz is like a chilled hot toddy. Citrusy and easy to throw back, it's training wheels for the amaro-curious.$14 for 4 atdrizly.com

By jazzing up Finger Lakes Riesling and Cabernet Franc with tropical fruits, this bittersweet spritzer is an easy sipper.$20 for 4 atsocialhourcocktails.com

With pronounced notes of rhubarb, vanilla, and Champagne vinegar, this is a spritz that will appeal to adventurous drinkers.$6 atdrizly.com

In canning aromas inspired by irises grow- ing on an Italian hillside, the magicians at Straightaway have done it again.$72 for 12,straightawaycocktails.com

For when you wish you could ask someone behind the bar to whip up a drink that's totally out of left field

A pinch of rock candy gives the classic citrus-forward old-fashioned an edgy 84-proof makeover.$24 for 4 atdrinkslowandlow.com

With notes of dried mint and herbs, there's almost an absinthe-like quality here we'd never expect at first glance.$72 for 12 atstraightawaycocktails.com

Citrus fanatics will love You & Yours' vodka infused with tangerine, clementine, and mandarin.$15 for 4 atdrizly.com

Bold, syrupy fig notes mixed with cascara make this a spicy, soothing drink with year-round appeal.$6 atdrizly.com