The world of hard seltzer has experienced a significant surge in popularity over the past few years, with sales projected to continue growing in the coming years. With so many brands and flavors available in the market, it can be overwhelming for consumers to choose the best selling seltzer that suits their taste preferences. In this article, we will delve into the world of hard seltzer, exploring the top brands, flavors, and ingredients that make them stand out from the rest.
What is Hard Seltzer?
Before we dive into the best selling seltzer, it’s essential to understand what hard seltzer is. Hard seltzer is a type of alcoholic beverage that is made with water, a sweetener, and a spirit, usually vodka or rum. The spirit is mixed with water and a sweetener, such as sugar or natural flavorings, to create a refreshing and low-calorie drink. Hard seltzer is often flavored with natural essences, such as lemon, lime, or grapefruit, to give it a unique taste.
History of Hard Seltzer
Hard seltzer has been around for decades, but it wasn’t until the 2010s that it gained mainstream popularity. The first hard seltzer brand, SpikedSeltzer, was launched in 2013 by Nick Shields, a entrepreneur who wanted to create a low-calorie alternative to beer. However, it was White Claw, launched in 2016 by Mark Anthony Brands, that revolutionized the hard seltzer industry. White Claw’s unique flavor profiles and sleek packaging helped to popularize hard seltzer among millennials and Gen Z consumers.
Top Selling Hard Seltzer Brands
The hard seltzer market is highly competitive, with numerous brands vying for market share. Here are some of the top selling hard seltzer brands:
- White Claw: With over $1 billion in sales in 2020, White Claw is the leading hard seltzer brand in the US. Its unique flavor profiles, such as Natural Lime and Ruby Grapefruit, have made it a favorite among consumers.
- Truly Hard Seltzer: Truly is another popular hard seltzer brand that offers a range of flavors, including Lemon, Lime, and Grapefruit. Its sales have been steadily increasing, with over $500 million in sales in 2020.
- Bon & Viv: Bon & Viv is a hard seltzer brand that offers a range of unique flavors, such as Cranberry and Grapefruit. Its sales have been growing rapidly, with over $200 million in sales in 2020.
- High Noon: High Noon is a hard seltzer brand that offers a range of flavors, including Peach and Pineapple. Its sales have been steadily increasing, with over $100 million in sales in 2020.
What Makes a Hard Seltzer Brand Successful?
So, what makes a hard seltzer brand successful? Here are some key factors:
Unique Flavor Profiles
One of the key factors that sets a hard seltzer brand apart from its competitors is its unique flavor profiles. Consumers are looking for new and exciting flavors that are not available in traditional beer or wine. Brands that offer unique flavor profiles, such as White Claw’s Natural Lime or Truly’s Lemon, are more likely to attract consumers.
Sleek Packaging
Sleek packaging is another key factor that contributes to a hard seltzer brand’s success. Consumers are drawn to brands that have modern and stylish packaging that stands out on store shelves. Brands that invest in high-quality packaging, such as White Claw’s slim cans, are more likely to attract consumers.
Low Calorie Count
Hard seltzer is often marketed as a low-calorie alternative to beer and wine. Brands that offer low-calorie options, such as Truly’s 100-calorie hard seltzer, are more likely to attract health-conscious consumers.
Natural Ingredients
Consumers are increasingly looking for brands that use natural ingredients and avoid artificial flavorings and preservatives. Brands that use natural ingredients, such as White Claw’s use of natural essences, are more likely to attract consumers who prioritize health and wellness.
Best Selling Hard Seltzer Flavors
While hard seltzer brands offer a range of flavors, some flavors are more popular than others. Here are some of the best selling hard seltzer flavors:
- Lime: Lime is one of the most popular hard seltzer flavors, with brands like White Claw and Truly offering lime-flavored options.
- Lemon: Lemon is another popular hard seltzer flavor, with brands like Truly and Bon & Viv offering lemon-flavored options.
- Grapefruit: Grapefruit is a popular hard seltzer flavor, with brands like White Claw and Truly offering grapefruit-flavored options.
- Berry: Berry flavors, such as raspberry and blackberry, are also popular among hard seltzer consumers.
What’s Next for Hard Seltzer?
The hard seltzer industry is expected to continue growing in the coming years, with new brands and flavors emerging all the time. Here are some trends that are expected to shape the hard seltzer industry:
Sustainability
Consumers are increasingly looking for brands that prioritize sustainability and reduce their environmental impact. Hard seltzer brands that invest in sustainable packaging and production methods are likely to attract consumers who prioritize the environment.
Low-ABV Options
Consumers are increasingly looking for low-ABV options that allow them to enjoy a drink without the guilt. Hard seltzer brands that offer low-ABV options, such as 3% ABV, are likely to attract consumers who prioritize health and wellness.
Craft Hard Seltzer
The craft hard seltzer movement is expected to gain momentum in the coming years, with small-batch hard seltzer brands emerging in local markets. Craft hard seltzer brands that offer unique flavor profiles and high-quality ingredients are likely to attract consumers who prioritize quality and uniqueness.
In conclusion, the best selling seltzer is a matter of personal preference, with numerous brands and flavors available in the market. However, by understanding the key factors that contribute to a hard seltzer brand’s success, such as unique flavor profiles, sleek packaging, low calorie count, and natural ingredients, consumers can make informed decisions about which brand to choose. Whether you’re a fan of White Claw, Truly, or Bon & Viv, there’s a hard seltzer brand out there that’s sure to quench your thirst.
What is the best-selling seltzer brand in the market?
The best-selling seltzer brand in the market is White Claw. It has been a consistent leader in the hard seltzer market since its introduction in 2016. White Claw’s popularity can be attributed to its wide range of flavors, low calorie count, and high-quality ingredients. The brand offers a variety of flavors, including natural lime, ruby grapefruit, and black cherry, which cater to different tastes and preferences.
White Claw’s success can also be attributed to its effective marketing strategies, which have helped the brand to connect with its target audience. The brand has been successful in creating a strong online presence and has partnered with popular influencers and celebrities to promote its products. Additionally, White Claw has been expanding its product line to cater to the growing demand for low-carb and low-calorie beverages.
What are the top flavors of seltzer that are popular among consumers?
The top flavors of seltzer that are popular among consumers include natural lime, lemon, grapefruit, and berry flavors. These flavors are popular due to their refreshing and fruity taste, which appeals to a wide range of consumers. Natural lime is a classic flavor that is a staple in the seltzer market, while lemon and grapefruit flavors offer a tangy and citrusy taste. Berry flavors, such as raspberry and black cherry, are also popular due to their sweet and fruity taste.
In addition to these classic flavors, many seltzer brands are also offering unique and innovative flavors, such as mango, pineapple, and cucumber. These flavors cater to consumers who are looking for something new and exciting. Some brands are also offering seasonal flavors, such as pumpkin and peppermint, which are popular during specific times of the year.
What is the difference between hard seltzer and regular seltzer?
The main difference between hard seltzer and regular seltzer is the presence of alcohol in hard seltzer. Hard seltzer is a type of seltzer that contains alcohol, typically in the form of vodka or malted barley, while regular seltzer is a non-alcoholic beverage. Hard seltzer typically has an ABV of around 5%, which is similar to beer, while regular seltzer has zero ABV.
Another difference between hard seltzer and regular seltzer is the ingredients used. Hard seltzer often contains added flavorings and sweeteners, while regular seltzer is typically made with just water and carbon dioxide. Hard seltzer is also often marketed as a low-calorie and low-carb alternative to beer and other alcoholic beverages, while regular seltzer is marketed as a healthy and refreshing beverage option.
Is seltzer a healthy beverage option?
Seltzer can be a healthy beverage option, depending on the ingredients and nutritional content. Regular seltzer is a zero-calorie and zero-carb beverage that is made with just water and carbon dioxide, making it a great option for those who are watching their weight or managing diabetes. Hard seltzer, on the other hand, typically contains around 100 calories and 2-3 grams of carbs per serving, which is relatively low compared to other alcoholic beverages.
However, some seltzer brands may contain added flavorings and sweeteners, which can increase the calorie and carb content. Additionally, excessive consumption of seltzer can lead to an imbalance of electrolytes in the body, particularly potassium. It is also worth noting that seltzer is not a significant source of essential nutrients, so it should not be relied on as a primary source of hydration or nutrition.
Can I make my own seltzer at home?
Yes, you can make your own seltzer at home using a few simple ingredients and some basic equipment. To make regular seltzer, you will need a SodaStream machine or a manual carbonation bottle, which can be purchased online or at a local kitchen supply store. You will also need water and a CO2 cartridge or a manual carbonation system.
To make hard seltzer, you will need to add a spirit, such as vodka or rum, to the seltzer. You can also add flavorings, such as fruit juice or herbs, to create unique and delicious flavors. There are many recipes available online that can guide you through the process of making your own seltzer at home. However, it is worth noting that making your own seltzer at home may not be as convenient or cost-effective as purchasing it from a store.
What is the shelf life of seltzer?
The shelf life of seltzer depends on the type of seltzer and how it is stored. Regular seltzer typically has a shelf life of around 6-9 months, while hard seltzer typically has a shelf life of around 12-18 months. However, the shelf life can vary depending on the storage conditions and the packaging of the seltzer.
It is recommended to store seltzer in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. The seltzer should also be kept tightly sealed to prevent the carbonation from escaping. If you notice any changes in the taste, smell, or appearance of the seltzer, it is best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Can I drink seltzer if I have a gluten intolerance or sensitivity?
Most seltzer brands are gluten-free, making them a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. However, it is always best to check the ingredients and labeling to confirm that the seltzer is gluten-free. Some seltzer brands may use gluten-containing ingredients, such as barley or wheat, in their products.
If you have a gluten intolerance or sensitivity, it is also worth noting that some seltzer brands may be processed in facilities that also process gluten-containing ingredients, which can lead to cross-contamination. In this case, it is best to choose a seltzer brand that is certified gluten-free and has strict quality control measures in place to prevent cross-contamination.