The 15 Best Hard Seltzers: Expert Taste Test and Reviews
Discover the ultimate hard seltzers for every taste preference—evaluated by Delish editors and beverage experts.
Hard seltzers have become a staple at parties, beaches, and summer gatherings over the past decade. Their low ABV compared to traditional cocktails, refreshing character, and diverse flavors have made them a favorite alternative to beer. Delish editors, joined by leading beverage experts, painstakingly sampled over 15 brands and 60 flavors to rank the best hard seltzers you can buy today. Whether you crave citrus or tropical fruit, vodka or tequila-based options, there’s a fizzy can for you.
What Is Hard Seltzer?
Hard seltzer is an alcoholic beverage made by blending carbonated water, alcohol, and often natural (or artificial) fruit flavorings. Unlike beer, many hard seltzers feature lower calories and reduced sugar content, making them popular for social sipping. The base alcohol can be derived from fermented cane sugar, malt, vodka, or even tequila.
- Typical ABV: 4% to 8%
- Calories per can: 100–130
- Popular flavors: Lime, peach, berry, tropical blends
Top Picks from the Delish Editorial Taste Test
After the most comprehensive taste test imaginable, including both established giants and innovative newcomers, here are the best hard seltzers you’ll find on shelves today.
Truly Spiked & Sparkling Citrus Mix Pack
Best for Classic Refreshment
Truly consistently lands at the top for balanced fizziness and crowd-pleasing flavor diversity. Standout is the Citrus Squeeze from the Citrus Mix Pack—ideal for indecisive palates caught between grapefruit, orange, and lime.
ABV: 5% (Truly Unruly line: 8%)
- Effervescence is moderate and perfectly balanced
- Citrus Squeeze flavor highlights tangy freshness
- Available in variety packs—ideal for parties
- Truly Unruly offers higher alcohol alternatives
Volley Tequila Soda
Best for Agave Tequila Lovers
Volley’s husband-and-wife founders wanted more than the generic seltzer: they use 100% agave tequila and organic fruit juice. Each can feels closer to a cocktail than a mainstream malt beverage.
ABV: About 5%
- Tequila-forward with authentic cocktail vibes
- Organic ingredients, eco-friendly branding
- Visually appealing packaging
- Flavor options: Grapefruit, Lime, Mango, and more
Lunar
Best for Unique, Asian-Inspired Flavors
Born from friends’ apartment-brewing experiments, Lunar’s range showcases “Asian Americana in a can.” Notably, their “plum” flavor divided our testers—some found it reminiscent of childhood popsicles, others described a glue-like aroma. The “lychee” was universally loved for its aromatic, floral subtlety.
ABV: 4.5–5%
- Plum, Lychee, and distinctive Asian fruits
- Light, delicate sweetness
- Perfect choice for adventurous palates
High Noon
Best Vodka-Based Seltzer with Real Juice
High Noon stands out for using vodka instead of malt, blending it with authentic fruit juice. The result: every flavor matches its label. Slightly higher sugar, so beware of next-day effects if overindulging.
ABV: 4.5%
- Made with vodka, not generic spirit
- Real juice profiles with visible fruit character
- Best flavors: Watermelon, Pineapple, Grapefruit
- Bigger variety packs for gatherings
White Claw Surge
Best for High Alcohol and Classic Seltzer Style
Often regarded as the “OG” seltzer, White Claw Surge boasts over 30 flavors. Surge packs an impressive 8% ABV for those seeking more buzz per sip. Some flavors are a bit artificial, but variety and wide availability make it an enduring favorite.
ABV: 8%
- Wide range—over 30 options
- Widely available nationwide
- Artificial notes in some profiles
Hornitos
Best Tequila Seltzer Without Malt Flavors
Hornitos takes its tequila seriously. Unlike malt-based competitors, its tequila seltzer bypasses unpleasant notes. Recommended for lovers of tropical, sweet profiles.
ABV: around 5%
- Real agave tequila base—no malt aftertaste
- Notable flavors: Natural Lime, Pineapple, Mango, Passion Fruit
- Sweet-forward profiles
Two Robbers
Best Vodka Seltzer for Sugar-Free Enjoyment
Philadelphia’s Two Robbers makes a vodka-based hard seltzer with no added sugar. It features clean, natural flavors that are especially refreshing on a hot day.
ABV: 5%
- Real fruit, no added sugar
- Signature flavors: Lemon Lime, Sweet Gold Pineapple
- Ideal for all-day poolside sipping
PRESS
Best for Premium, Gluten-Free Sipping
Founded with the aim to “elevate” the seltzer experience, PRESS offers sophisticated pairings like Pomegranate-Ginger and Watermelon-Sea Salt. Gluten-free and made with natural fruit; a refined choice for discerning drinkers.
ABV: 4–5%
- Innovative flavors: Peach with Rosemary, Pomegranate-Ginger
- Premium, gluten-free ingredients
- Sleek packaging
NÜTRL
Best for Easy-Drinking Vodka Seltzer
From Anheuser-Busch’s stable, NÜTRL blends real vodka with real juice. Flavors are subtle and smooth—never overpowering or too sweet.
ABV: 4.5–5%
- Flavors: Lime, Strawberry, Orange, Pineapple
- Lemonade versions slightly sweeter
- Easy, sessionable character
JuneShine
Best for Innovative Cocktail-Inspired Flavors
San Diego’s JuneShine brings organic appeal and inventive combinations, including hard kombucha and seltzers. Cocktail-inspired flavors vary from Vodka Mule to Watermelon Mezcal Margarita.
ABV: 5.9–10%
- Cocktail seltzer lineup (Rum Mai Tai, Tequila Ranch Water)
- No added sugar
- ABV options up to 10%
Hell’s Seltzers by Gordon Ramsay
Best for Chef-Curated Flavors
Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay’s “Hell’s Seltzers” feature bold flavor combinations inspired by his TV persona. Each 12-oz can offers unexpected blends such as “That’s Forked” (Key Lime, Vanilla, Graham), “Berry Inferno” (Peach, Blueberry, Raspberry), “Mean Green” (Kiwi, Lime, Mint, Pineapple), and “Knicker Twist” (Passionfruit, Pineapple, Orange).
ABV: 5.6%
- Chef-designed, adventurous blends
- Available in variety packs
- 120 calories per can
VMC
Best for Sports Fans & Sweet Sippers
With boxing champion Saul “El Canelo” Álvarez’s endorsement, VMC stands apart for its margarita flavor. The overall profile skews sweet, with creative options like Jamaica (hibiscus) and Tamarind.
ABV: 4–5%
- Margarita flavor is a highlight
- Unique fruit-inspired varieties
- Best for fans of sweet seltzers
How Does Hard Seltzer Compare to Beer?
| Feature | Hard Seltzer | Beer |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol By Volume (ABV) | Typically 4-8% | Varies, often 4-7% |
| Calories (per 12oz) | 100-130 | 150-200 |
| Sugar Content | Low to Moderate | Minimal |
| Gluten-Free | Often Yes | Mostly No |
| Flavor Options | Wide Range (Fruity, Savory) | Hops, Malty, Some Flavor Beers |
| Carbonation | High, Crisp | Medium, Frothy |
For those watching their calorie and gluten intake, hard seltzer provides a lighter, more flexible alternative to beer—especially for hot, active summer days.
Key Factors for Selecting the Right Hard Seltzer
- Alcohol Base: Vodka, tequila, malt, or cane sugar—each brings different taste and calorie nuances.
- Flavor Authenticity: Look for brands with real fruit juice for pronounced, natural flavor.
- Sweetness Level: Those sensitive to sugar should check labels; High Noon and VMC trend sweeter than others.
- Packaging: Variety packs are ideal for gatherings.
- ABV Needs: Surge products (like White Claw Surge) offer higher alcohol for more kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are all hard seltzers gluten-free?
A: Most hard seltzers, especially those based on vodka or cane sugar, are gluten-free, but check individual labels for assurance.
Q: Which hard seltzer is healthiest?
A: Brands using real juice and minimal added sugar, such as Two Robbers and High Noon, are often chosen by health-conscious consumers. Lower sugar varieties typically present fewer calories per can.
Q: What sets tequila-based seltzers apart from the rest?
A: Tequila seltzers, like Volley and Hornitos, deliver authentic cocktail-like flavors and a distinct agave profile, differing from malt or vodka bases.
Q: Do hard seltzers cause hangovers?
A: Like all alcoholic beverages, excessive consumption can cause hangovers. Higher sugar content (as in some juice-based seltzers) may worsen symptoms for sensitive drinkers.
Q: Are there premium or “craft” hard seltzers?
A: Yes—PRESS, JuneShine, and Lunar stand out for premium ingredients and innovative flavors, offering a craft experience for sophisticated palates.
Final Thoughts
Hard seltzer’s ascent owes much to its flexibility, low calorie count, and compelling flavor variety. Whether you reach for a vodka-based classic, tequila-forward cocktail, or a sweet, exotic fusion, there are now dozens of choices to suit every taste. The Delish team’s tested favorites include classics like Truly and High Noon as well as novel blends from Lunar and JuneShine. With more brands entering the space each year, keep exploring—your next favorite flavor might be just a can away.
