Angels Dare Cocktails is making history as the first ready-to-drink cocktail is now available onboard ScotRail trains, introducing a premium handcrafted Scottish brand to thousands of travellers as its colourful cans hit trolleys across the rail network.
This milestone comes on the heels of a significant policy shift for Scotland’s railway. Following pandemic-related bans, ScotRail formally lifted restrictions in June 2025, allowing passengers to consume alcohol on trains between 10 am and 9 pm.
Founded by Glasgow mixologist Mike Crozier, Angels Dare began during the 2020 lockdown as a cocktail delivery service, quickly developing a loyal following.
The brand has recently undergone significant change since Martin Peel joined last October as Commercial Director.
Speaking with Larder Magazine, Martin Peel said: “We’ve gone through quite a process.
“We reduced the range by half, introduced new products, updated the branding, lowered the price point, and revised the strategy.
“Now we’re able to move into sales channels we didn’t have access to before.”
Taking to the Rails
The move onto ScotRail is a significant first, timed with recent changes in rail alcohol legislation.
Peel said: “We have a full national rollout coming with the biggest travel operator in the UK, and we will launch in our first big retailer before Christmas.
“That’s all the sales channels we didn’t have before when our price was higher – Morrison’s or Tesco weren’t going to entertain £6.50 a can!”
He added: “RTDs are in growth, especially with the younger generation. You don’t want to spend £30 on vodka and six other ingredients, you just want a quality cocktail in a can at a great price”.
Crafted for Convenience
With the alcohol ban lifted, Angels Dare can now offer its full range onboard, including Cheeky Wee Kiss, Garden Fling, Raspberry Rascal, and Brambly Collins.
The brand’s presence signals a new age for Scottish train hospitality, one where locally produced quality and responsible enjoyment set the standard for travellers.
Peel said: “All the flavours come in at 8%. It’s a nice middle ground for RTDs – not as weak as 4% and not up at 15-20% like some of the other premium products. We just want a strength everyone can enjoy”.
Angels Dare’s approach reflects a clear understanding of how drinking habits are shifting. Peel said: “When I was a student, 95% of people drank alcohol. Now the latest data says 43% of students don’t, which isn’t a bad thing, as they are prioritising mental and physical health.
“There’s a huge rise in matcha lattes and non-alcoholic cocktails, but there’s still a percentage who love a proper cocktail, so we’re tapping into that market.
“We’re keeping that premium nature at an attractive price. We know that when people buy once, they’ll love it and keep buying, so we’ve taken away that price hurdle as much as we can.”
Looking Ahead
With its launch on Scottish railways, festival appearances and partnerships with operators and supermarkets, Angels Dare is establishing itself as the perfect travel companion and big-night-in treat.
Peel summed up the strategic direction: “We want people to enjoy a cocktail on a train or a flight, but also to be able to grab a multipack in the supermarket as part of a big night in.
You Might Also Like:
Cocktail of the Year at Aberdeen Cocktail Week crowned
Glasgow Cocktail Week expands to two-week ‘Glasgow Cocktail Fortnight’ with biggest line-up yet
Somewhere by Nico launches its first-ever Cocktail festival in Glasgow and Edinburgh with £5 cocktails
Glasgow Cocktail Week 2025: 10 Days of Drinks, Parties & Trails
“Our focus for the next 12 to 24 months is building our presence across travel operators, airports, and hotels, while also strengthening our supermarket listings.”
Available direct from the website, on Amazon, and rolling out across Scotland’s rails and retailers, Angels Dare‘s flavour-rich cocktails are ready to help Scottish drinkers lose their halo, on the move or at home.
