Cool Cat is part of the new pack of refined canned drinks, easy to serve with pride. (photo by Amy Lynch for Wine and Whiskey Globe)

Modern spritzers have come a long way, evolving from the bubbly sweet wine coolers of the 1980s into something entirely fresh—and certainly refreshing. New York-based Cool Cat launched its new line of Original (Elderflower Mint) and Citrus spritzers last year, with Berry and Grapefruit variations joining the family this summer, targeting savvy drinkers with a sense of convivial community spirit.

“We’re building a uniquely delicious beverage brand, but also a community of fearless Cool Cats,” says co-founder and CEO Rocco Venneri. “As a minority business owner, it’s essential that we’re inclusive of all genders, ethnicities, and sexual orientations, and bring together like-minded individuals who share similar values and experiences.”

The Cool Cat spritzers arrive in four-packs of 12-ounce recyclable cans at a suggested retail price of $18, just the right vehicle for stashing in a cooler and toting along to a backyard party. They contain just 150 calories and two carbs per serving, but at 6.9% ABV these sippers can sneak up on you. The base is a California Pinot Grigio.

Single serving drinks like these have risen in popularity over the past year; there’s less contact overall, and guests can help themselves. In a thoughtful gesture, the brand recently introduced “Cool Capz,” reusable covers that fit on any 12-ounce can to keep beverages fresher longer and reduce the spread of germs. 

With the Original, the elderflower and mint are subtle in nature, more suggested than outright tasted. The Citrus option boasts a more prominent profile, highlighting a pleasant bitter note that seems likely to play nice with fresh juices. The well balanced drinks provide a versatile player on a cocktail platter, though straight from the can or over ice are great choices.