March 20, 2026

Sazerac Acquires RTD Brand Dirty Shirley

Sazerac has acquired Dirty Shirley, a ready-to-drink canned cocktail brand, from Goodwell Brands for an undisclosed sum. The brand launched in 2022 and is positioned as a vodka-spiked take on the classic Shirley Temple. 

The deal reflects broader momentum in the RTD segment. Pre-mixed cocktails reached $3.8 billion in 2025, up over 16% year over year, and IWSR forecasts RTDs as the only beverage alcohol category expected to grow in 2026. The acquisition also deepens Sazerac's Texas footprint, following its purchase of BuzzBallz and other Texas-based brands in recent years.  

Sazerac CEO Jake Wenz noted the brand "has carved a unique space in the RTD category with their bold cocktails and distinct personality," and that Sazerac looks forward to building on the foundational work already done. Founder Adam Kost added that Sazerac has "the scale, expertise, and vision to take the brand to the next level." 

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