you’re looking for a light and bubbly drink to enjoy on a hot day or a low-calorie mixer for your next cocktail, seltzers offer a versatile and appealing choice. The rise in popularity of hard seltzers, which combine sparkling water with alcohol, has added another layer to this bubbly trend, making seltzers a go-to drink for a wide variety of occasions.
In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the best seltzers available in 2024, from traditional sparkling waters to the top-rated hard seltzers. We’ll also explore the different flavor profiles, unique ingredients, and notable brands that have garnered praise in recent years.
1. Sparkling Waters: Classic and Refreshing
LaCroix Sparkling Water
LaCroix is one of the most recognizable names in the sparkling water market. Known for its bold, fruity flavors and zero calories, LaCroix has earned a loyal fanbase. With options like Pamplemousse (grapefruit), Lime, and Mango, LaCroix brings a crisp and light taste that is perfect for hydration or pairing with meals.
Best Features:
- 0 calories, 0 sugars, and 0 artificial sweeteners
- Wide range of flavors
- Widely available in supermarkets and convenience stores
Perrier
Perrier has long been a favorite among sparkling water lovers for its sophisticated taste and fine carbonation. The French brand is known for its natural mineral water, which offers a more robust and slightly salty flavor compared to other seltzers. Available in both plain and flavored options, Perrier offers classic choices like Lime and Lemon, as well as more exotic flavors such as Pink Grapefruit and Strawberry.
Best Features:
- Naturally carbonated with minerals for a richer taste
- Elegant glass bottle design
- Available in a variety of fruit-infused flavors
Schweppes Sparkling Water
Schweppes is a trusted name in the beverage industry, offering sparkling water with an effervescent kick. Known for its crisp, clean taste, Schweppes is available in a variety of flavors, including Lemon-Lime, Raspberry, and Orange. While not as well-known as some other seltzer brands, Schweppes’ sparkling water holds its own for a refreshing drink.
Best Features:
- Crisp carbonation with a smooth finish
- Flavorful yet not overpowering
- A great option for mixers and standalone refreshment
Spindrift
Spindrift differentiates itself by being the only sparkling water brand that uses real fruit juice. This results in a bolder flavor profile and adds a hint of natural sweetness without artificial sweeteners or flavorings. Spindrift offers unique combinations like Lemon, Raspberry Lime, and Grapefruit, which are made with just a few simple ingredients.
Best Features:
- Uses real fruit juice, no artificial ingredients
- Rich and full-flavored seltzers
- Great for people seeking a more natural, fruity seltzer
2. Hard Seltzers: Alcoholic Refreshment
The hard seltzer trend exploded over the last few years, with major beverage brands releasing their own alcohol-infused versions of sparkling water. These drinks combine refreshing seltzer with alcohol, typically around 5% ABV, making them a popular option for social gatherings, beach days, or low-calorie cocktails.
White Claw
White Claw is arguably the most popular hard seltzer in the U.S. Its rise to fame began in 2016, and since then, it has maintained a dominant position in the market. White Claw offers an impressive array of flavors such as Black Cherry, Mango, and Ruby Grapefruit, with a crisp, light carbonation that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Best Features:
- 100 calories per can, 2g carbs, 5% ABV
- Available in a range of flavors, including limited-edition seasonal options
- Widely available and consistently top-rated
Truly Hard Seltzer
Truly is another top contender in the hard seltzer space, offering a variety of flavors that range from tropical fruit options to more classic choices. Some popular flavors include Wild Berry, Lemonade, and Pineapple, all of which deliver a balanced sweetness without being overly sugary. Truly’s clean and crisp finish makes it a go-to drink for many seltzer enthusiasts.
Best Features:
- 100 calories per can, 5% ABV
- Known for its wide flavor variety and refreshing taste
- Frequently releases new flavor options and limited-edition packs
Bon & Viv Spiked Seltzer
Bon & Viv Spiked Seltzer is another alcohol-infused sparkling water that has gained popularity for its refreshing taste and low-calorie profile. With only 90 calories and 4.5% ABV per can, Bon & Viv offers flavors like Pear Elderflower, Black Cherry Rosemary, and Clementine Hibiscus. These unique, herbal-inspired flavors have earned praise for being more sophisticated than many other hard seltzers on the market.
Best Features:
- 90 calories per can, 4.5% ABV
- Innovative, more complex flavors
- Zero sugar and gluten-free
High Noon
High Noon has carved out a niche for itself by blending real vodka with sparkling water. Unlike many other hard seltzers that use malt liquor, High Noon uses premium vodka, which provides a smoother, more refined taste. High Noon’s flavors include Grapefruit, Pineapple, and Watermelon, which are all light, crisp, and slightly sweeter than some other hard seltzers.
Best Features:
- Made with real vodka and real fruit juice
- 100 calories per can, 4.5% ABV
- Available in a variety of refreshing flavors
Bud Light Next
Bud Light Next stands out for its innovation in creating a zero-carb hard seltzer. Offering the familiar light taste of Bud Light, but with a unique twist of sparkling water, this drink is designed for those looking for a clean, crisp, and low-calorie beverage. Its refreshing flavor and zero carbs have made it a go-to choice for those seeking a light but satisfying alcoholic drink.
Best Features:
- 0 carbs and 95 calories per can
- Refreshing and light taste
- Available in a few core flavors like Lime and Mango
3. Flavored Seltzers: The Best Taste Experiences
While plain seltzer water is often a favorite for those looking to hydrate without added sweetness, flavored seltzers provide the opportunity for a more indulgent yet still guilt-free refreshment. From naturally-infused fruit waters to more exotic blends, flavored seltzers offer a wide variety of tastes.
LaCroix Curate
LaCroix Curate is an upgraded line of seltzers that offers more sophisticated flavors compared to its original offerings. This line includes combinations like Cherry Blossom, Kiwi Sandia, and Hibiscus, which offer a more aromatic and refined experience.
Best Features:
- Subtle, complex flavors that aren’t overly sweet
- Variety of flavors inspired by global ingredients
- Elegant packaging that reflects the sophisticated taste
Polar Seltzer
Polar is another popular seltzer brand that offers an excellent range of both standard and more unique flavors. Known for its bold carbonation and array of fruit and seasonal flavors, Polar stands out for its creativity. Flavors such as Orange Vanilla, Cranberry Lime, and Peach Pear have made it a favorite among seltzer enthusiasts.
Best Features:
- Strong carbonation and bold fruit flavors
- A wide range of limited-edition and seasonal options
- No sweeteners or artificial flavors
Bubly
Bubly, by PepsiCo, is another leading brand in the flavored seltzer market. Offering 0-calorie drinks in flavors such as Lime, Cherry, Blackberry, and Mango, Bubly is a refreshing option for anyone looking to enjoy a sweet, yet sugar-free beverage. Bubly also has the added fun of colorful and playful branding, making it a fun drink for any occasion.
Best Features:
- 0 calories, 0 sugars, and 0 sweeteners
- Bright, fun branding and fun flavor combinations
- Refreshing and crisp, with strong carbonation
4. Health-Conscious and Special Diet Seltzers
Seltzers are also an excellent choice for those adhering to special dietary restrictions or looking for healthier alternatives to sugary sodas. Many seltzer brands pride themselves on offering low-calorie, gluten-free, and keto-friendly options, making them a great option for anyone monitoring their diet.
Reed’s Craft Sodas (Zero Sugar)
Reed’s is known for its ginger beer, but the brand also offers a fantastic line of zero-sugar sparkling beverages. Made with a blend of natural ingredients, these seltzers deliver the crisp effervescence of sparkling water combined with the smooth taste of ginger and fruit.
Best Features:
- Zero sugar and caffeine-free
- Natural ingredients, including ginger, for a more complex flavor
- Available in both traditional and exotic flavors
Clear Caffeinated Seltzer
For those looking for an extra boost, Clear Caffeinated Seltzer combines the refreshing qualities of sparkling water with caffeine. This beverage offers a clean taste with natural caffeine, making it a great choice for people who want to stay hydrated while enjoying the effects of caffeine. It’s available in a variety of flavors such as Citrus and Black Cherry.
