The 2025 San Francisco RTD Competition showcased a range of outstanding ready-to-drink cocktails, and the rum-based category stood out for its tropical flair, rich depth, and creative expression. Whether you prefer a classic daiquiri, a modern Mai Tai, or a creamy dessert-like sipper, this year’s finalists highlight the versatility of rum as a base spirit in the RTD space.

Crafthouse Cocktails, co-founded by acclaimed bartender Charles Joly, continues to lead the RTD space with expertly balanced, bar-quality cocktails made with premium spirits and natural ingredients. The Pineapple Daiquiri is a tropical reimagining of the classic Cuban cocktail. Featuring aged rum, pineapple, lime, and spiced bitters, this version layers brightness and depth in every sip.

Crafthouse Cocktails earns another top spot with this standout tiki-inspired classic. Their Mai Tai blends Caribbean rums with lime juice, orange, and almond notes for a flavor profile that honors the original while remaining bright and modern.

Knox & Dobson delivers pre-mixed classics with a timeless sensibility, often drawing from the golden age of cocktails. Their Daiquiri offers a classic, no-frills take on the rum-lime-sugar trifecta, celebrating simplicity and balance.

Malibu, the iconic Caribbean rum brand known for its sunny flavor profile, continues to bring vacation vibes to every can. The Pineapple Bay Breeze delivers a fun, fruit-forward blend of sweet pineapple and tart cranberry. A perfect beachside refresher in portable form.

Bushwacker's Coconut Rum Cream is a decadent dessert-in-a-glass experience, marrying coconut, chocolate, and coffee flavors into a rich and silky rum-based treat.

From tropical classics to dessert-like indulgence, this year’s top rum-based RTDs show that there's something for every palate. These cocktails represent the best of the category—balanced, flavorful, and ready to transport you to island time with every sip.