BuzzBallz: Shaking Up the Cocktail Scene
On a sweltering Texas afternoon in 2009, Merrilee Kick found herself by the pool, grading papers and craving a refreshing cocktail. Concerned about the fragility of glassware near water, she envisioned a safer, more convenient alternative—a durable, portable cocktail that could withstand the poolside environment. This moment of inspiration led to the birth of BuzzBallz, a brand that would soon revolutionize the ready-to-drink cocktail industry.
Transitioning from her role as a high school teacher, Kick embarked on a journey into the beverage world. Drawing from her experiences and entrepreneurial spirit, she developed a unique spherical packaging inspired by a glass votive and a can of tennis balls. This design was not only eye-catching but also practical—unbreakable, floatable, and recyclable. Emphasizing quality, BuzzBallz cocktails are crafted using real fruit juices and premium spirits, ensuring that consumers enjoy both taste and potency.
The brand boasts an impressive array of flavors, catering to diverse palates. From traditional concoctions like the Tequila ‘Rita to adventurous blends such as Chili Mango and Espresso Martini, there’s a BuzzBallz flavor for every occasion. Seasonal offerings, like the indulgent Choc Tease, showcase the brand’s commitment to innovation and keeping the lineup fresh and exciting.
From traditional concoctions like the Tequila ‘Rita to adventurous blends such as Chili Mango and Espresso Martini, there’s a BuzzBallz flavor for every occasion. Seasonal offerings, like the indulgent Choc Tease, showcase the brand’s commitment to innovation and keeping the lineup fresh and exciting.
But let’s be honest—BuzzBallz are more than just a novelty. They’re a vibe.
How to Enjoy BuzzBallz Like a Pro
Sure, you can drink them straight from the ball (and most do). But if you’re looking to elevate the experience, here are a few BuzzBallz-approved moves to try:
- Over Ice: Pour your BuzzBallz into a lowball glass with ice. It chills the drink and smooths out the strong kick—especially for creamy options like Choc Tease or Hazelnut Latte.
- BuzzBallz Floats: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to a chilled Chillers flavor like Horchata or PeachBallz. It’s a boozy dessert you didn’t know you needed.
- Cocktail Hacks: Mix Tequila ‘Rita with a splash of sparkling water, Tajín on the rim, and a lime wedge. Boom—BuzzBallz Margarita 2.0.
- Slushie Style: Throw your BuzzBallz in the freezer for an hour or two. Not frozen solid, but icy enough for a refreshing slush. Pro tip: Chili Mango shines in this form.
- Party Packs: Chill a variety and toss them in a cooler. BuzzBallz are tailgate gold, bachelorette-party essentials, and campfire conversation starters. Their compact, shatterproof design makes them ideal for travel and poolside sipping.
Whether you’re lounging solo or hyping up a group pregame, BuzzBallz bring big flavor in a small package—and a little irreverent fun.
How Does BuzzBallz Compare to Other Ready-to-Drink Cocktails?
The ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail space has exploded in recent years. But BuzzBallz stands out. Here’s how it stacks up:
| Product | ABV | Packaging | Base Alcohol | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BuzzBallz | ~15% | Spherical plastic ball | Vodka, Tequila, Rum, Orange Wine | Real fruit juice, fun flavors, high ABV |
| Cutwater Cocktails | ~10–12.5% | Cans | Spirits (vodka, tequila, etc.) | Premium cocktail taste, larger cans |
| High Noon | 4.5–5% | Slim cans | Vodka + Soda | Light, refreshing, low calorie |
| On the Rocks | 20–30% | Glass bottles | Premium Spirits | Bar-style, high-proof, luxury vibe |
| Truly Vodka Seltzers | ~5% | Cans | Vodka + Seltzer | Low sugar, mainstream seltzer market |
What BuzzBallz offers that many others don’t is attitude. It’s the drink that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Where other RTDs aim for sleek or sophisticated, BuzzBallz is the class clown—but it still aces the taste test.
And if you’re someone who likes a little more buzz in your ballgame (pun 100% intended), that 15% ABV is no joke. You’re getting more bang per ounce than almost any other canned cocktail. For comparison, a typical beer has 4–6% ABV and a glass of wine hovers around 12%.
Frequently Asked Questions about BuzzBallz
What are BuzzBallz Cocktails? How are they different from BuzzBallz Chillers?
BuzzBallz Cocktails are ready-to-drink adult beverages made with 100% juices and creams combined with premium spirits. In contrast, BuzzBallz Chillers use the same natural juices and creams but are crafted with an orange-wine base. For optimal taste, it’s recommended to shake your BuzzBallz, then open and pour over ice.
Where can I find the nutritional information for BuzzBallz?
Nutritional details for all BuzzBallz flavors are available on their respective product pages. For instance:
- Tequila ‘Rita: 243 calories, 19.7 grams carbs, 19.7 grams sugar per 200ml serving.
- Choc Tease: 295 calories, 25.8 grams carbs, 25.8 grams sugar per 200ml serving.
For a comprehensive breakdown, visit the BuzzBallz website.
Are BuzzBallz kosher?
Yes, all BuzzBallz products are certified kosher.
Do BuzzBallz contain caffeine?
Only the Espresso Martini Cocktail and Chiller contain caffeine. All other products are caffeine-free.
Are BuzzBallz vegan?
All fruit-based BuzzBallz Cocktails and Chillers are vegan. However, creamy flavors like Choc Tease, Horchata, and Hazelnut Latte contain dairy.
Where to Purchase BuzzBallz and Pricing
BuzzBallz are widely available across the United States and internationally. To locate a retailer near you:
- Store Locator: Use the BuzzBallz store locator to find nearby retailers.
- Online Retailers: Platforms like GotoLiquorStore and Instacart offer BuzzBallz for delivery, depending on your location.
Pricing varies by retailer and region. For example:
- Total Wine & More: Offers BuzzBallz 200ml singles around $3.49 and 1.75L “Biggies” at approximately $17.99.
- BuzzBallz Online Shop: Cases of 24 BuzzBallz Cocktails are available for $96.00.
About BuzzBallz
BuzzBallz, LLC, founded by Merrilee Kick in 2009, began as a college project and has since grown into a significant player in the ready-to-drink cocktail market. The company prides itself on being a woman-owned and family-run business, emphasizing innovation, quality, and sustainability. In 2024, BuzzBallz was acquired by the Sazerac Company, marking a new chapter in its expansion and reach.
From its humble beginnings in Texas, BuzzBallz has expanded its reach globally, now available in numerous countries and gaining accolades for its innovative approach. The brand’s story is a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and the ability to adapt in a competitive market.
Looking ahead, BuzzBallz shows no signs of slowing down. With plans to introduce new flavors and penetrate further into international markets, the brand is poised to continue its trajectory as a leader in the ready-to-drink cocktail industry. As consumers seek convenience without sacrificing quality, BuzzBallz stands ready to meet and exceed expectations, one spherical cocktail at a time. L
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