• by Danielle Oster , March 7, 2024

 Following on the heels of releasing a THC-infused soda, Jones Soda Co. is launching a product line for those looking for a different kind of buzz – entering the alcohol category with the launch of Spiked Jones Hard Craft Soda.

The new product comes in single 19.2-ounce cans, and a mixed pack of 12-ounce cans, with fourlaunch flavors: M.F. Grape, Orange & Cream, Strawberry Lime and Berry Lemonade.

Jones’ positioning includes a harder alcohol content than many competitors in the category. Interestingly, the difference can sizes have varying ABV content, with the larger cans clocking in at 6.9% ABV, while the 12-ounce variety is a heftier 8.4% ABV. In line with other lines under the Jones brand portfolio, can designs feature user-submitted photos.

Locust Cider producer Rainmaker partnered with Jones Soda Co. to create the new product, which according to a release will start national distribution with a “major retail grocery partner” beginning some time in Q2 of 2024, to be followed by additional distribution partners across convenience, food service, and retail grocery stores.

"Jones had wanted to create a hard craft soda, but it was not possible to create the perfect taste until we partnered with Rainmaker," Jones Soda CEO David Knight said in a statement. "There was a natural fit due to our shared admiration of taste profiles, expertise and shared values in beverage philosophy."

A fellow Northwest-based company, Rainmaker was a fit for its experience in crafting bold hard ciders and "innovative beverages made with real ingredients,” according to a release, along with its national distribution reach across the food and beverage spaces, including in bars and restaurants. The first collaboration between the two brands offers opportunities for “operational efficiencies, incremental sales and profits for key retailers,” according to Jones.

The move follows Jones recently entering the food service space in the U.S. and Canada through partnership with companies including Dot Foods. It also follows Jones launching its entry into the cannabis space earlier this year with the launch of Mary Jones Delta 9-THC-Infused Soda, as well as entering the pet space with the release of its “soda” for dogs last November.