Pennsylvania Grocery Stores and Gas Stations Can Sell High Noon and Other Ready-to-Drink Cocktails in Stores Starting Today

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — Starting today, Pennsylvania businesses that sell alcohol will be able to sell canned cocktails like High Noon and Surfside, which previously could only be purchased at state-run liquor stores.

Earlier this year, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a bill that expanded where “ready-to-drink” cocktails could be sold.

Under the state’s old laws, cocktails containing spirits like vodka, gin and tequila could only be sold in state wine and liquor stores. Sparkling alcoholic drinks like the White Claw and Truly could be sold in stores before the law was expanded because they contain alcohol made from fermented sugar, not actual spirits.

Late last month, businesses such as restaurants, hotels, grocery stores and convenience stores were able to begin applying for permits to sell canned cocktails.

Starting today, licensed stores will be able to sell cocktails with an alcohol by volume content ranging from 0.5% to 12.5% ​​and in containers up to 16 oz.

A maximum of 192 ounces of product may be sold per transaction, which is equivalent to, for example, a 12-pack of 16 oz cans.

Pennsylvania expands happy hour laws

New legislation came into force on Friday which allows bars and restaurants to extend the length of time they can offer happy hoursgoing from 14 to 24 hours per week.

The new law also allows licensed establishments to offer food and beverage combinations and allows them to include up to two drinks in the price of a ticket to a self-funded event.