Coppercraft Distillery announced today the release of its exclusive, limited edition, Honolulu Blue premium canned cocktail crafted in partnership with the Detroit Lions. The blue raspberry lemonade and vodka-based cocktail pays tribute to the history of the NFL franchise both in name and with its striking color. The release of Honolulu Blue expands the Holland-based distillery’s popular ready-to-drink portfolio to eight products and will be sold at select Michigan retailers, in Ford Field, and within Coppercraft Distillery’s tasting rooms in Holland and Saugatuck.
“We’re excited to offer the perfect tribute to ever-faithful Lions fans in the Motor City and across Michigan,” shared Brian Mucci, CEO of Coppercraft Distillery. “Our team is grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Detroit Lions franchise on this special release and to continue crafting spirits with widespread appeal among sports fans everywhere.”
The new product’s moniker is one of the Detroit Lions’ official team colors. Honolulu Blue was developed for former owner George Albert Richards. Richards purchased the Portsmouth Spartan football team in 1934 and moved it to Detroit, renaming the franchise the Detroit Lions. Honolulu Blue was inspired by the waves off the coast of Hawaii and was chosen by Richards and Glenn Presnell, a member of the first Detroit Lions team.
Coppercraft has been an Official Partner of the Detroit Lions since 2019. Its spirits and canned cocktail drinks, including Honolulu Blue, can be found at the six Coppercraft-branded bar locations within Ford Field. The company, founded in Holland, MI in 2012, was one of the first licensed distilleries in the state and continues to experience robust growth in Michigan and throughout the nation. It was also recognized on the national stage this year, having been awarded Double Gold for its Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Gold for its Gin at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Coppercraft Rye Whiskey was also recognized at the New York International Spirits Competition with a Gold medal.