Research Outline

Company Analysis - Cutwater Spirits

Goals

An analysis of Cutwater Spirits, specifically its history, products, distribution process, customer reviews, and marketing strategies.

Early Findings

History

  • Cutwater Spirits was established in 2006 as Ballast Point Spirits. The company rebranded as Cutwater Spirits in 2016 after its beer subsidiary was acquired by Constellation Brands for $1 billion.
  • It was at the forefront of the "ready-to-drink canned cocktail category in 2015 when it began mixing high-quality spirits and other ingredients then packaging them into cans."
  • In 2017, the company opened its restaurant and bar to offer consumers the opportunity to explore its unique cocktails.
  • The company distributes to at least 34 states in the US and is headquartered in San Diego, California.
  • In February 2019, it was acquired by Anheuser-Busch. During the 52-week period ending January 2019, Cutwater Spirit's retail sales reported grew by over 200%.

Products

  • Cutwater Spirits' portfolio includes eight "mixers, 14 spirits-based ready-to-drink (RTD) canned cocktails and 16 spirits spanning whiskey, vodka, gin and rum."
  • Its spirits include:
    • Devil’s Share Whiskey
    • Cutwater Whiskey
    • Cutwater Tequila
    • Cutwater Vodka
    • Cutwater Gin
    • Cutwater Rum
    • Bali Hai Tiki Rum
    • Opah Herbal Liqueur

Competitive Advantage

  • By creating an ideal balance between "drinkability" and casual luxury, while also using the best ingredients, Cutwater Spirits has managed to set itself apart from competitors.

SUMMARY

  • Our initial research was spent outlining Cutwater's history, some of its products, and its competitive advantage.
  • This spreadsheet has been created for Cutwater's products.