Sazerac Acquires Ready-to-Drink ‘Trailblazer’ Brand BuzzBallz
Sazerac acquired BuzzBallz, a spherically-shaped ready-to-drink cocktail brand. (Photo: BuzzBallz/Instagram)
Sazerac announced on Wednesday that it acquired BuzzBallz, a spherically-shaped ready-to-drink cocktail brand that is woman-owned and family-run.
Sazerac is behind bourbon powerhouses like Buffalo Trace, Van Winkle and Blanton’s. It claimed it acquired the cocktail line because BuzzBallz offered a “unique” addition to its portfolio.
BuzzBallz was founded by a former high school teacher, Merrilee Kick. Kick will be staying on board as the CEO.
“Merrilee and the team at BuzzBallz have created incredible brands and we are both honored and excited to partner together and take them to the next level,” Sazerac CEO and President Jake Wenz said in a statement. “Merrilee’s creativity, commitment to quality and drive is inspiring. BuzzBallz is truly one-of-a-kind and we can’t wait to help spread the products to more consumers all over the world.”
The spherical RTD line shared that its inception began one day when Kick was grading papers by the pool and wanted a cocktail that could be sipped out of a plastic vessel.
She was inspired by a votive candle holder and a can of tennis balls to create the cocktail brand’s distinctive container.
“As a trailblazer in the ready-to-drink space, we have received many inquiries to acquire the company, however, Sazerac matched our innovative culture and spirit best,” CEO of BuzzBallz Merrilee Kick said in a statement. “They are a partner we can continue to grow with internationally, as well as expand our existing distribution footprint in the USA. We are excited about our future growth opportunities from the synergies we will create together.”
BuzzBallz cocktails have base spirits of rum, vodka and tequila and clock in at 15% ABV. Many creative flavors are in the RTD line, including Pineapple Jalapeño, Eggnog, Espresso Martini, Choc Tease, Strawberry ‘Rita, Lotta Colada, Horchata, Hazelnut Latte and more.
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