Nostalgic Yet Boozy Twist Growing 934% YoY 🤑 | Adam Kost (Dirty Shirley) Interview

What this episode covers

The RTD cocktail segment has experienced massive success in recent years, helped by its convenient format and the rise of the at-home cocktail occasion during the “Great Shutdown” era. But while the RTD cocktail market has seen an abundance of new entrants, as it predictably followed my CPG industry adage that “strong demand growth breeds intense commercialization activity,” there have been smarter and more effective launches as the category matures and has a clearer view of the consumer. And it appears these RTD cocktail drinkers are selecting health-conscious products with premium ingredients and flavorful options…oftentimes seeking a fun, refreshing taste of their childhood with an adult beverage spin. Moreover, A LOT of categorical success is in recreating or reimagining something where there’s already consumer behavior. And that was a key motivating factor behind Adam Kost creating Dirty Shirley, a nostalgic yet boozy twist to the classic Shirley Temple beverage we’ve likely all enjoyed growing up. Last year, Dirty Shirley, which contains organic cherry juice, natural flavors, and super premium vodka, grew almost 1000% YoY. Yet, as you’ll hear in our conversation, Dirty Shirley is only getting started by continuing to thoughtfully expand markets and creating a variety of powerful strategic retail and brand partnerships. Subscribe = Pour Decisions Podcast Also, an extra special thanks to Cognizin for not only being the Title Sponsor of The Beverage Forum 2025...but supporting this awesome piece of content!

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