Hard Seltzer

Over the past year I've tried 2 different expressions of Hard Seltzer, ranging from entry-level to premium. My conclusion: the character is the most reliable indicator of quality across price points. Served chilled, the differences are pronounced and educational. The best value wasn't the most expe…

I came to Hard Seltzer late — not until I was in my 4s. Had assumed it wasn't for me based on nothing in particular. A partner's recommendation changed that. Tried it on the rocks and the smooth aftertaste was immediately interesting rather than off-putting. Several years on and it's firmly part of…

After 8 years of drinking Hard Seltzer I'm still finding bottles that surprise me. The category has more depth than it's given credit for by people who haven't explored it properly. Served neat at its best, the character continues to evolve in interesting directions. My advice to anyone starting ou…

I drink Hard Seltzer roughly once a week and have done for 15 years. Not a connoisseur, just someone who enjoys it consistently. Served with a splash of water after work it provides a reliable wind-down that nothing else quite replicates. The balance between sweetness and bite is comforting in its f…

Tried this Hard Seltzer on recommendation and it's a solid choice without being exceptional. Served with a splash of water as suggested. The nose is present but not as pronounced as in more premium examples. For regular drinking it's good value. For a special occasion I'd go a step up. It's the kin…

I spent years not getting Hard Seltzer. Tried it a few times, found it fine, moved on. Then I had it served with a splash of water by someone who knew what they were doing and the nose landed differently. Something clicked. Since then I've been actively exploring the category and find it more rewar…

Something I've noticed with Hard Seltzer: the season changes the experience significantly. In summer neat it's lighter and more refreshing, the character sitting differently in warm weather. In winter the same drink served the same way feels richer and more substantial. I now think about Hard Seltz…

Over the past year I've tried 4 different expressions of Hard Seltzer, ranging from entry-level to premium. My conclusion: the balance between sweetness and bite is the most reliable indicator of quality across price points. Served in a proper glass at room temperature, the differences are pronounce…

I use Hard Seltzer primarily in cocktails and it excels in that role — the balance between sweetness and bite comes through in a mixed drink in ways that complement rather than dominate. Served neat as a long drink with ice it's fine but not where it shines for me personally. If you're building a h…

I expected more from this Hard Seltzer given the price point and the hype around the category. Served as a long drink with ice as recommended. The balance between sweetness and bite was underwhelming compared to bottles at half the price I've enjoyed. The premium end of this market has a lot of mar…