Episode 194: Out With Low-Alc? BuzzBallz and XXL Lead a Growing Trend

The siren call of a BuzzBall is hard to ignore. The neon sphere at your checkout counter is the $5 (or less) cocktail fueling a $500 million empire. In 2024, RTD sales spiked 16.5% while other booze categories stayed flat, and they show no signs of slowing down. 

In the wine world, XXL, the so-called “Moscato without manners” pushes the same boundary with candy-sweet flavors and 15–20% ABV, flipping the script on the sober-curious trend.

In this episode, resident spirits expert Kara Newman breaks down what’s driving the RTD boom, with a curated BuzzBallz tasting. Writer-at-large Reggie Solomon brings us a Wine Enthusiast first: a tasting note for BlowPop, plus tips for enjoying XXL—yes, even over your salad.

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