New small-batch canned cocktail brand launches with two bold flavors at September events
Boise, Idaho – Sept. 2, 2025 – Idaho’s craft beverage scene is expanding this month with the introduction of Lead Hammer Cocktails. This brand-new line of canned cocktails, from the makers of Meriwether Cider, blends bar-quality flavor with Idaho’s adventurous spirit.
“We have been making craft beverages in Idaho for nearly a decade,” said Molly Leadbetter, owner of Lead Hammer Cocktails. “We know two things: Idahoans appreciate products made with care, and they value adventures. Lead Hammer Cocktails proudly offer that convenience without compromise. They taste like they were hand-mixed by a bartender, but it fits into a pack or cooler on your next adventure.”
Lead Hammer Cocktails launches with two Idaho-inspired takes on classic cocktails:
- The Cosmonaut – A bright, tart take on the Cosmopolitan. Made with apple spirits, hard cider, cranberry, lime, orange, and cane sugar.
- The Cutthroat 75 – An Idaho-inspired French 75 featuring apple spirits, hard cider, lemon juice, and gin botanicals. Named for Idaho’s state fish.
Both cocktails are offered in 12-ounce cans at 12% ABV. They are gluten-free, plant-based, and crafted without any artificial ingredients, making them approachable for anyone.
Lead Hammer will make its brand debut with two launch events:
- Thursday, Sept. 4 at Meriwether Cider House in Downtown Boise from 4pm-9pm
- Friday, Sept. 13 at Meriwether Taproom in Garden City from 3pm-8pm
Event attendees will be the first to try the cocktails. But beyond bragging rights and delicious beverages, there will be added festivities like local food trucks and chiseling ice for the perfect cocktail rock.
The brand’s debut comes at a time when ready-to-drink cocktails are booming. U.S. sales of canned cocktails have exceeded $7.5 billion annually and are projected to reach $13.2 billion by 2032 as more consumers seek premium beverages they can enjoy from anywhere. It’s a trend Idaho is well-positioned for, given the state’s established craft beverage community and adventure-focused lifestyle
After their launch, Lead Hammer Cocktails will be available for purchase at Meriwether Cider locations as well as many local retailers, restaurants, and bars around the state. “Our roots are in small-batch craft, and we take pride in every can we make,” said Leadbetter. “We know the demand is there, and our goal is to make Lead Hammer available wherever Idahoans gather—whether that’s a backyard BBQ, a trailhead, or a tasting room with friends.”
Follow @leadhammercocktails
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About Lead Hammer Cocktails
Founded in 2025, Lead Hammer Cocktails is an Idaho-made, woman-owned, craft beverage brand dedicated to bringing bar-quality cocktails to life in a can. Made with real ingredients and small-batch care, Lead Hammer Cocktails are refreshingly different, ready for the trail, the party, or wherever adventure calls. Learn more at leadhammercocktails.com.
