Behind the Label: The Story of Try Hi Ball – A Canned Cocktail Revolution

Canned cocktails have been quietly revolutionising the way we enjoy spirits, and at the forefront of this movement is Try Hi Ball. This ready-to-drink (RTD) sensation isn’t just another mixer in a can—it’s a carefully crafted, premium highball that brings bar-quality refreshment anywhere you go. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail lover or new to the world of canned drinks, understanding what makes Try Hi Ball special will change how you think about convenience and quality.

In this article, we pull back the label to explore the story of Try Hi Ball—from its inspiration and ingredients to how it compares with other RTD options. We’ll also share a few pairing ideas and tips for serving it like a pro. If you’ve been curious about the hi ball trend, this deep dive is for you.

What Is Try Hi Ball? A Modern Take on a Classic

Try Hi Ball is a ready-to-drink canned cocktail that pays homage to the classic highball—a simple yet elegant mixture of spirit, soda, and ice. But this isn’t your average highball. BrewDog’s Try Hi Ball uses premium spirits and natural flavours to create a balanced, crisp drink that’s perfect for sipping straight from the can or pouring over ice. Its carbonation is lively, its sweetness is restrained, and its finish is clean—everything you want from a highball.

Unlike many mass-produced RTD cocktails that rely on artificial syrups and low-grade alcohol, Try Hi Ball is crafted with care. Each can delivers a consistent, bar-quality experience. Whether you’re at a picnic, a barbecue, or just relaxing at home, this drink brings the sophistication of a highball without the need for a shaker or a bartender.

• Premium spirit base for authentic flavour
• Natural fruit and botanical extracts
• Light, crisp carbonation with a clean finish

The Inspiration Behind Try Hi Ball

The highball has a rich history, originating in 19th-century America and later becoming a staple in Japanese cocktail culture, where it’s revered for its precision and balance. Try Hi Ball draws from this tradition but adds a contemporary twist. The team at BrewDog wanted to create a drink that captured the essence of a perfectly made highball—simple, refreshing, and never cloying—while making it accessible to everyone.

The result is a canned cocktail that respects the classics but isn’t afraid to experiment. The flavour profile is built around a clean spirit backbone, complemented by subtle notes of citrus and botanicals. It’s designed to be enjoyed on its own or paired with food, making it a versatile addition to any drink lineup.

• Inspired by Japanese highball culture
• Modern interpretation with natural ingredients
• Designed for versatility—enjoy solo or with food

Try Hi Ball vs. Other RTD Cocktails: A Honest Comparison

The ready-to-drink market is crowded, with everything from hard seltzers to pre-mixed margaritas. So where does Try Hi Ball fit in? Compared to many competitors, Try Hi Ball stands out for its authenticity. While some RTDs taste thin or artificial, this highball delivers a depth of flavour that rivals a freshly made cocktail. Its alcohol content is balanced—typically around 5-7% ABV—making it sessionable without being weak.

Another advantage is its versatility. You can drink it straight from the can for a quick refreshment, or pour it over ice with a twist of lemon for an elevated experience. It pairs beautifully with light dishes like seafood, salads, or grilled vegetables. For a more adventurous pairing, try it alongside spicy Asian cuisine—the carbonation cuts through heat, while the botanical notes complement complex flavours.

• Authentic flavour profile—no artificial aftertaste
• Balanced ABV for easy drinking
• Pairs well with seafood, salads, and spicy dishes

How to Serve Try Hi Ball: Tips for the Perfect Sip

Serving Try Hi Ball is delightfully simple, but a few small tweaks can elevate your experience. For the classic highball, chill the can thoroughly, then pour over a tall glass filled with ice. Add a lemon wheel or a sprig of mint for a touch of elegance. The ice should be large cubes or spheres to slow dilution, keeping your drink crisp longer.

If you’re feeling creative, use Try Hi Ball as a base for a cocktail. Mix it with a splash of ginger beer for a fiery twist, or add a dash of bitters for complexity. It also works wonderfully in a punch bowl—combine multiple cans with fresh fruit and herbs for a party-ready batch drink. However you serve it, the key is to keep it cold and let the flavours shine.

• Chill thoroughly before serving
• Use large ice cubes for slow dilution
• Garnish with lemon or mint for extra flair

Why Try Hi Ball Deserves a Spot in Your Cooler

In a world of endless drink choices, Try Hi Ball earns its place by delivering consistent quality and genuine flavour. It’s the kind of drink you can grab on a whim and know you’ll enjoy—no mixing, no guessing, no disappointment. For anyone who appreciates a well-made highball but values convenience, this is a game-changer.

Whether you’re stocking up for a party, packing for a day out, or simply want a reliable go-to cocktail at home, Try Hi Ball fits the bill. It’s a testament to how far ready-to-drink options have come, and it’s a sign of where the category is heading. Next time you see it on the shelf, grab a pack—you might just discover your new favourite canned cocktail.

Ready to taste the highball revolution for yourself? Explore the full range of Try Hi Ball and other premium canned cocktails at BrewDog. Whether you're a longtime fan or a first-timer, there's a flavour waiting to become your new go-to. Cheers to great drinks, made simple.