Kathryn Had a Little Too Much Vodka

Ranking Every High Noon Vodka Flavor From Worst To Best

Katherine Peach/Tasting Table
You might have noticed the tall cans with a golden yellow circle seemingly taking over your local liquor store. High Noon is a California-based company and one of the newest additions to the growing hard seltzer category. High Noon takes a different approach by using vodka, real fruit juice, and sparkling water — all without high-fructose corn syrup or added sugars. High Noon is also gluten-free, a mere 100 calories (if you’re counting that sort of thing), and has a refreshingly appropriate alcohol content of just 4.5%, so more like a domestic beer than a glass of wine. But what are the best High Noon flavors?

Because we’re a dedicated team of taste testers, we sought out every flavor of High Noon (as of writing this article). Our saving grace came from Pride Wine Spirits in New York City, where you can find variety packs, single-flavor four packs, and the elusive singles for sale. Truly a hard seltzer oasis.

We adjusted our High Noon ranking not only on personal (read: subjective) taste but also on how likely someone might reach for a particular flavor on a given night. One person’s kiwi fantasy might be another’s nightmare. And is it really worth buying what is essentially a premixed lemon or lime vodka soda? Well, we have the answer to all your High Noon questions.

Some recommendations are based on first-hand impressions of promotional materials and products provided by the manufacturer/distributor/etc.

20. Guava: best for a neutral sipper

Katherine Peach/Tasting Table
High Noon Guava very much tastes like guava juice. One taste tester didn’t like the smell because it’s pungent, which is true to the real fruit, and felt like the flavor was punching them in the back of the throat. Now, we’ll leave that one open to interpretation but reiterate we had plenty of other positive reviews. Another strike against this flavor is that the aftertaste is persistent and wasn’t described as enjoyable. The Guava High Noon also appeared to have a thicker consistency. While not quite syrupy like a White Claw or hard kombucha, the fuller mouth feel was noticeable compared to other flavors. It did occur to us that this might be from it not being as cold as the other flavors since it wasn’t in the fridge as long. These vodka and fruit juice seltzers are designed to be served cold. 

Anyone in the group familiar with the taste of real guava — and we’re sorry to say those taste testers were in the minority — agreed the funky complexity is indicative of the real fruit. One tester mentioned it smells like guava jam yet couldn’t hold up to the concentrated, punchy flavor. The most significant strike against the guava? It’s forgettable mainly due to its neutrality. So, don’t be afraid to grab one from the High Noon tropical pack, but you might not remember what it was like after you’re done.

19. Plum: a perfectly palatable quaff

Fletcher Huntley/Tasting Table
With plum season just around the corner, we were excited to get an early taste of the tart, sweet flavor via High Noon’s new plum seltzer, especially since this particular fruit isn’t a common choice among boozy seltzers. Unfortunately, this plum was a little glum. Instead of having a cohesive flavor, it tasted like slightly sweetened carbonated water without a discernibly fruity flavor. That is, in itself, not a bad thing (I love fizzy water), but it just wasn’t what we were expecting.

Perhaps it’s a good fit for those who tend to steer clear of flavored seltzers because they often taste a little too fruity. This plum seltzer is available as part of High Noon’s limited edition Snowbird pack, an eight-pack that comes with four flavors in total. Bottom line: If you’re looking for plum flavor, we wouldn’t plumb the depths of your Snowbird pack just to try this seltzer, but if you’re looking for a perfectly refreshing neutral-tasting fizzy, boozy beverage, this one’s for you.

18. Pear: bright, sweet fruit flavor

Katherine Peach/Tasting Table
High Noon released a limited-edition Tailgate Pack in time for football season, and grab-and-go canned cocktails seem like the perfect companion to the iconic red cup. We’ve approached these new flavors with the knowledge that there really isn’t a bad mix of vodka and fruit juice for the brand, and while this is no different, we were left wanting more.

The pear High Noon seltzer is sweet and crisp like you might expect from a pear, but we wanted more bite. Sure, this isn’t a pear cider, and you shouldn’t come in expecting a tart pucker, but we did wish for a little something extra on the finish. However, we enjoyed the mellow and bright flavor of actual pear juice (the type of pear is a guess) with the right bubble of effervescence. (The addition of apple juice also helps to explain the soft fruit notes.) Most people will enjoy this highly drinkable flavor which is sold alongside standouts in the multipack.

17. Watermelon: a nostalgic candy experience

Katherine Peach/Tasting Table
The first impression of the Watermelon High Noon is the strong candied smell — precisely what we remember of the pink Jolly Rancher. For some of us, this was a turn-off. For others, the jolt back to childhood was exactly the type of seltzer they would reach for at the liquor store. The watermelon flavor is more robust than other High Noons, but the taste drops off at the end resulting in a less than satisfying finish. One tester mentioned they noticed the same gut feeling as when they drank stevia — not a plus in our book. Of course, the brand doesn’t mention using sweeteners, even if there could be any mystery elements hidden under the guise of “natural flavors.”

A true fan of the watermelon found it’s not the true artificial watermelon flavor that we’ve grown to love (fans of artificial cherry flavor will understand what we mean). Overall, despite the disappointment of not quite mimicking the artificial Jolly Rancher version — which one tester calls “peak candy” — we would still drink this High Noon hard seltzer over sucking on a hard candy any day. Like all High Noons, watermelon is made with real fruit juice and vodka, so your guess is as good as ours for why this flavor delivers a hint of “something’s off.” Watermelon is also featured in the original variety pack, so it might be an addition to the mix, even if it’s not the first flavor you’d desire.

16. Pineapple: tastes like pineapple soda

Katherine Peach/Tasting Table
The first thing we noticed about the Pineapple High Noon is that it smells like real (canned?) pineapple. A tropical flavor can be tricky to capture, so we felt confident that adding real fruit juice sets this hard seltzer brand apart. We are lovers of pineapple soda, so anyone familiar will likely find this a stellar pineapple representation. In some ways, we found it’s the best of all the other flavors because it’s exciting but not overpowering and a bit citrusy. Pineapple is also a less common flavor in the general United States, so that some palates might find this off-putting or, at least, unexpected.

We also found this pineapple drink doesn’t have the tartness or tannic attributes of the fruit that can hurt the tongue. It’s a good flavor of the real deal but not something we would want to consume all the time. Also, the first sip has a bold pineapple flavor that tapers off toward the finish and falls slightly flat.

One taste tester mentioned a soapy aftertaste, and another said it burned their mouth. Overall, though, this flavor grew on us and is a solid if unexpected addition to the tropical variety pack.

15. Peach iced tea: smells like candy, tastes like tea

Fletcher Huntley/Tasting Table
High Noon’s Peach Vodka Iced Tea arrives with a full-on olfactory assault. Open the can, and you’re hit with the unmistakable saccharine blast of peach ring candy. It’s intense, nostalgic, and honestly a little misleading.

The actual flavor is surprisingly dialed back. Yes, there’s a peach-candy note lingering throughout, but it’s nowhere near as loud as the aroma suggests. Instead, what really shines here is the tea. The brew holds its own, grounding the drink with a mild, tannic backdrop that keeps things from spiraling into an overload of artificial sweetness.

That said, if you were hoping for the bold, juicy flavor of High Noon’s original peach vodka soda, this might miss the mark. It smells like dessert and drinks like a mellow iced black tea with a candy chaser. It’s caught between vibes, so while peach lovers might be left wanting more, iced tea fans might appreciate the balance … as long as they don’t sniff it too hard.

14. Mango: rivals White Claw Mango

Katherine Peach/Tasting Table
Mango is a tough flavor to capture. We’ve heard rumors that Mango is one of the best White Claw flavors, while we think it fell short for true lovers of this stone fruit in the Sodastream bubly essence. We also found it’s one of the more divisive flavors.

This High Noon Mango iteration tastes a bit like a skittle from a tropical bag. One taste tester mentioned the smell is like a mango Hi-Chew candy. This mango adds a bit of sweetness at the end. Another tester mentioned the smell of the drink is like Rita’s Italian Ice. It’s also not strong enough for one of our more critical taste testers because the mango is more of a carbonated sparkling water than a hard drink (to be fair, we barely tasted alcohol in any of the drinks). However, we found Mango High Noon is one of the stronger flavors and even a little syrupy compared to the effervescence of peach or passion fruit.

After a mention of a hint of coconut at the end of the mango, it’s all we could think about. Not unpleasant, but not exactly a plus for mango purists. Perhaps a controversial take: Even though it’s hard to live up to a Mango White Claw, we would choose the High Noon thanks to the nostalgic taste of the coconut at the end. It’s an odd bonus, but the mixture of mango with a hint of complexity just works.

13. Kiwi: seltzer you’ll love or hate

Katherine Peach/Tasting Table
Having eaten fresh kiwi earlier in the day (a chance bonus for our taste testers), we can confidently say that this hard seltzer tastes like a real, and quite pungent, kiwi. The kiwi fruit is a bit sweet, a bit tart, and tender at the first bite. While this sparkling carbonated beverage doesn’t recreate the texture of the fruit, High Noon does the Lord’s work to imbue the hard seltzer with the bite of the ripened, fuzz-covered fruit.

We also found this is a love-it-or-hate-it scenario for most of the taste testers. One ardent critique of more of the flavors decided this was their favorite flavor. Another tester complimented that this flavor tastes the most accurate to the natural fruit flavor; even as someone who doesn’t like kiwis, they could appreciate the overall presentation.

The general consensus found Kiwi High Noon is still relatively mild, like all cans of vodka mixed with fruit juice and sparkling water. If you like kiwi, then this is a solid seltzer.

12. Lemon: classic flavor for grab-and-go

Katherine Peach/Tasting Table
Let’s start by saying that we found the Lemon High Noon quite drinkable. This hard seltzer did, however, create a bit of division among our official taste testers. Due to the citrus flavor, it doesn’t need to be as sweet, so the overall tartness proved to be a nice balance. Before we could gain a consensus, one taste tester had already poured a second taste — certainly not a bad sign.

The zing from the lemon is reminiscent of a mild and wildly popular Meyer lemon, offering a pleasant aftertaste that lingers from the not sour yet too sweet flavor. The sweetness also tastes a bit like stevia. The consistency is thicker than some other High Noon seltzers, but we found it doesn’t detract from the refreshing effervescence. While it does taste similar to a La Croix or a Sodastream lemonbubly, it’s also pretty close to tasting like a fresh lemon squeezed into a glass of sparkling water.

The lemon loses some points just because it’s not unexpected, and it feels like the brand is going for the safe option. Still, while it might not be the first flavor to reach for in the cooler, it would make an excellent addition to one of the High Noon variety packs (just saying).

11. Green Tea: sunshine in a can

Fletcher Huntley/Tasting Table
High Noon’s Green Tea Vodka Iced Tea is a bit gentler and lighter than the other vodka iced teas on this list. Pouring out a pale, golden color, this one makes a quiet entrance, both in appearance and flavor. If you’re looking for the grassy depth of a freshly steeped sencha green tea, you won’t find it here. But if you’re just in the market for something a tad sweet and kissed with just a touch of citrus, this might hit the spot. While it might not be the deepest, most intense flavor, it’s highly approachable.

The alcohol, once again, is impressively stealthy. This could easily pass as a canned iced tea you’d grab from a convenience store cooler, making it ideal for those who like drinks with a mild flavor that’s not alcohol-forward. This drink could stand to have a slightly stronger tea presence to balance the sweetness and lean into the “green tea” label, but it’s still an easy-drinking summer refresher and a solid addition to the High Noon lineup.

10. Cranberry: simple, tart classic for a reason

Katherine Peach/Tasting Table
Of all the classic cocktail combinations, few are more beloved than cranberry and vodka. High Noon Cranberry delivers the right amount of tart, red berry with effervescence. We appreciate the cranberry isn’t too mouth-puckering but doesn’t shy from the bite in the back of your palate. This addition to the line-up is included as a limited-edition Tailgate Pack alongside pear, black cherry, and grapefruit juice flavors. But, we feel this is a combination that could easily hold its own as a standalone seltzer option.

Cranberry is also a solid autumnal flavor and is crafted for scarf season when outdoor sports are all the rage. Do you go to college and support a football team? Or, perhaps, you have severe nostalgia for an alma mater. Can’t stand sport and need a bit of booze to sustain all the ball talk? However you land, we feel this canned seltzer cocktail is here to make your sporting event, night out, or lazy day a little more delicious with a punch of cranberry vodka. Of course, there’s stiff competition in this ranking. So, it’s also one part of the better variety packs yet still a middle hitter.

9. Original iced tea: screams summertime

Fletcher Huntley/Tasting Table
If you’re the kind of person who treats hot weather as an excuse to drink tea all day, High Noon Original Vodka Iced Tea might just be your new best friend this summer. This spiked tea leans hard into its classic roots, pouring out with a rich caramel color and giving off the nostalgic aroma of a classic Lipton iced tea.

At first sip, you’d be forgiven for thinking you grabbed a regular iced tea by mistake because the alcohol is practically undetectable, which makes this can dangerously drinkable (not to mention perfect for poolside chilling). The tea flavor is robust and satisfying, with just a touch of astringency in the finish. There’s a hint of artificial sweetness lingering in the background, but it’s not enough to make you want to stop drinking. And it’s much better than some other hard teas that are overloaded with sugar.

High Noon’s hard spin on classic iced tea is a refreshing way to usher in our favorite season. So if you like your cocktails light on booze and heavy on tea, this one’s worth cracking open. But be warned: You’ll probably want more than one.

8. Peach: the sleeper hit

Katherine Peach/Tasting Table
Let’s preface this review: We find anything peach-flavored to be highly suspect. Despite what the last name of our writer might suggest, we don’t typically find any artificially flavored peach items to be digestible, let alone exciting. We’re happy to say that Peach High Noon was the sleeper hit of this hard seltzer ranking. The clear carbonated liquid smells like real peach from the first approach — yes, we know the brand claims to use real fruit juice, but after sipping enough “natural” pre-made, gluten-free hard drinks on the market, you might excuse us for acting skeptical. The smell also is a bit like the peach rings candy and is very fruit-forward.

Oddly enough, the peach is best described as more like a peach pit than the fruit. We even found a hint of celery in the aftertaste. Many taste testers went back for seconds. From a group of peach purists, we’re pleasantly surprised by High Noon’s take on a peach seltzer. We might even add a bit more vodka to this pre-made drink for an extra bit of zing.

7. Raspberry: a berry lover’s benediction

Fletcher Huntley/Tasting Table
At first whiff, the smell of High Noon’s raspberry seltzer is sweet, tart, and fruity — exactly what we’d expect from this new addition to High Noon’s vodka seltzer lineup. As the ice-cold bubbles hit the tongue, they bring a berry flavor that hits the right notes and is (crucially) not too sweet. Just like a raspberry itself, this can of seltzer strikes a remarkably pleasant balance between sweet and sour. Unlike some other seltzers with berry flavors that taste generically berry-flavored, this one actually tastes like raspberry.

The tart flavor, however, lingers on the tongue a bit longer than expected, leaving a slightly sour aftertaste that is a little pronounced for our liking, and it felt like it was giving us sour breath. If we were drinking one of these seltzers on a date, we’d be sure to keep a box of breath mints at hand just in case.

6. Black Cherry: a crowd-pleaser

Katherine Peach/Tasting Table
Similar to the often beloved artificial watermelon flavors of our youth, artificial cherry flavor is in a class of its own for delivering a more popular candied flavor than the real fruit.

Cherry can also easily become medicinal, but this hard seltzer tastes like a rich, black cherry ice cream. We did notice the smell evokes a slightly medicinal smell, but never fear: The flavor is much better. We also noticed Black Cherry High Noon appears to be a favorite flavor of the masses — it was the one flavor for which we had to go searching at multiple locations because it was sold out at Pride Wine Spirits — and even our most skeptical taste tester enjoyed it. We also like that the flavor is a little more tart but doesn’t veer into a full pucker. You might agree that this seltzer leans more candied, but it’s still very drinkable. 

We also found Black Cherry High Noon to be a little less interesting and refreshing than others like passion fruit, so it’s not going to top our High Noon ranking. Still, we are quite confident that this juice flavor with a little tartness is a hit for most seltzer fans.

5. Half & Half: a hole in one

Fletcher Huntley/Tasting Table
High Noon’s Half & Half Vodka Iced Tea (a take on the classic Arnold Palmer) leans into summer vibes with style. Pop the top, and you’re greeted with a bright, citrusy aroma that’s more lemon drop candy than earthy tea leaf, but when we had a sip, we found both flavors blissfully mingling with each other in perfect harmony.

In the glass, it’s slightly cloudy, just like a good lemonade should be. The flavor follows suit: Lemon takes the lead, bright and zippy, while the black tea lingers in the background. The balance is what really makes this drink work. It’s not overly sweet, and the mild bitterness from the tea keeps the flavor grounded. It’s light, refreshing, and surprisingly complex for a canned cocktail.

For those who love fruit-forward drinks but still want that earthy bitterness of black tea, this can hits the mark. It’s the kind of drink you want in hand after a sweaty afternoon of gardening, grilling, or just existing in the hot summer sun.

4. Passionfruit: best for La Croix fans

Katherine Peach/Tasting Table
We immediately noticed a fruity and enticing smell from the can, which wasn’t overpowering like some other High Noon flavors. Our taste testers found Passionfruit to be authentic but wished it tasted more like it smells, as in, this is a super mild option. We agreed it’s an ideal hard seltzer for fans of La Croix sparkling water because this High Noon is more like an essence of passion fruit rather than a full-on fruit attack. We also barely tasted the edge of the alcohol, which is a perk for easy-drinking seltzer without the aftertaste of grain alcohol of other seltzer brands.

Keep in mind that we found this taste might be more like flavored sparkling water, but it is sweeter while being less effervescent. So, a little bit of candied taste, but we could drink a whole can without problem. This would be a good High Noon option if you want something to take to the beach for a day sipper. We decided to rank it lower on the list because Passionfruit is borderline watered down but still refreshing and a top contender for one of the best High Noon flavors.

3. Tangerine: a superb summer sipper

Fletcher Huntley/Tasting Table
Nothing says summer like a sparkling citrus drink. High Noon’s new tangerine flavor hits all the marks with a tangy taste and a slightly sweet finish that is light, refreshing, and deliciously drinkable. Orange-flavored beverages can sometimes veer into a territory that is too candy-like, tasting artificial and a far cry from the distinctive aroma that makes this citrus subcategory so enticingly pleasant. But we were confident that High Noon would deliver with this flavor, given that its other citrus flavors have generally been hits. Sipping this seltzer made us want to drop everything and plop down on a sunny picnic blanket. 

The brand-new tangerine flavor can be found in High Noon’s limited edition El Presidente 12-pack, which features the favorite flavors of Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy. If you bring this pack to a party, beware that you and your friends will be fighting over who gets to enjoy one of the three cans of tangerine High Noons included.

2. Lime: classic for a reason

Katherine Peach/Tasting Table
A vodka soda with a lime wedge is a standard drink for many people at home or at a bar. And it’s a classic because the flavors offer a mild, refreshing taste with a hint of citric acid. We found the premade Lime High Noon to be one of the market’s best-tasting iterations of lime flavor. The bite of citrus fruit can go horribly wrong, but this one isn’t botched.

Our taste testers loved this take on a classic because it does have a bit of a sweet aftertaste. One taste tester mentioned the sweetness of honey instead of a stevia aftertaste. This lime citrus also leaves a flavor on the tongue, which lingers with a crispness.

We believe the Lime High Noon is an excellent example of what a hard seltzer should taste like. Unlike the safe option of the lemon (but still, we do love a Meyer lemon), this flavor was robust enough to make a case for buying a premade vodka seltzer, whether camping, at the beach, or sitting on the couch watching Netflix.

1. Grapefruit: citrus perfection

Katherine Peach/Tasting Table
How can we count the ways we love the Grapefruit High Noon? One way is that this is one of the few flavored hard seltzers that placed on each of our taste testers’ personal “top five” list. Right from the first crack of a can, the smell of ruby red grapefruit wafts into the olfactory glands (better than it sounds).

The first sip delivered the tartness of a ruby red with a robust flavor and hint of sweetness. We would compare this to an Ocean Spray flavor with plenty of bite and a bit of pucker in the mouthfeel. It’s also refreshing, so the full flavor does not detract from the goal of an easy-drinking hard seltzer. We also appreciate a hint of bitterness — without making the mistake of overpowering the overall taste.

For anyone who wants more than the 4.5% alcohol, grapefruit would make a solid mixer with a bit more vodka. Grapefruit High noon possesses the best of La Croix Pamplemousse but also leans in with a splash of Fresca. Truly refreshed by the grapefruit and even noticed more than a few testers who gave a bit of an “ahhhhh!” at the end of a sip. Enough said.

Methodology

Stockcam/Getty Images
To get the best possible sense of these seltzers, we got them ice cold and started sipping. When you drink a seltzer, you’re looking for a superbly crisp, refreshing experience. This is often undercut when seltzers are too sweet, have their fruit flavors all wrong, or just don’t taste like the flavor advertised on the front of the can.

So, when we lined up the three new flavors of High Noon, we were looking for a light, natural sweetness that enhanced the taste without overpowering it. Next, we paid attention to the amount of fruit flavor — ideally a seltzer will have enough to differentiate it substantially enough from plain seltzer without making us feel like we were sucking on Jolly Ranchers. Lastly, we discerned how much the flavor of the drink matched the flavor of the actual fruit that it was meant to taste like. Small sips were essential so that this tasting didn’t turn sloppy.

RECOMMENDED
NEXT UP
DRINK
21 Popular Hard Seltzer Brands, Ranked Worst To Best
By Devorah Lev-Tov Updated: April 28, 2025 4:10 pm EST

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
Having dinner outdoors with friends and family can be a blast. You can pack up a perfect picnic and head off to the beach, park, or even the backyard. Once the menu is set and all your dishes are packed, the only thing left is the drinks. While a thermos of simple lemonade or punch could work, a six-pack is so much easier.

These days, you can find six-packs of everything from beer to wine. Even canned cocktails seem to come in four, six, or 12-packs. But hard seltzers are the way to go if beer isn’t your thing or feel that wine is better sipped out of a glass. There used to only be a few brands available, but today every major liquor company seems to have one. Some have your standard citrus, while others focus on more tropical flavors. Some are specifically for the pool, then others are better suited to a tailgate. There are even a couple of brands hoping to tap into that nostalgic vibe.

Are you not sure which can is for you? As always, I’m here to help. I sampled some different brands and have some definite opinions about which ones you should pick up and which should stay on the store shelves.

Some recommendations are based on firsthand impressions of promotional materials and products provided by the manufacturer.

21. Bud Light Seltzer

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
Bud Light has never been my favorite beer, and it has since controversially lost its spot as America’s favorite beer for reasons unrelated to the actual taste of it, but since the company promises these seltzer cans are “100% hard seltzer, 0% beer,” I was intrigued. I figured with flavors like mango, black cherry, and cranberry apple, there would be a fruity carbonation that would get me on board with Bud and its non-beer beverages. 

I was sadly wrong and disappointed. These cans range from bitter to subtly sweet with each fruit tasting more like what the company thinks cherry or apple should taste like rather than what it actually does. Ranging in price from $17 to $27 depending on how many cans you buy, these seltzers are definitely not worth the money and land in last place in my ranking.

20. VMC

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
There are tons of spirits available that come from celebrities. So, I wasn’t at all surprised to discover a seltzer with celebrity ties. But this doesn’t come from the film or music world. No, VMC instead comes from the sporting world, namely boxing and world champion Mexican boxer Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez. Launched in 2022, VMC stands for Viva Mexico, Cabrones, which is a common rallying cry often heard throughout Mexico that expresses pride and celebration in the country. 

It’s funny that pride is such a focus of this tequila-based seltzer because it doesn’t appear the company took any pride in creating the beverage. Unlike some of the other seltzers on this list, VMC is so sweet that I almost went into sugar shock with the very first sip. Now, if overly cloying was simply the only problem, I wouldn’t have had as big an issue with it. But when you combine the super sweetness with the artificial flavors of its options, you get a seltzer that seems like it was created for those who like sweet tarts or Trolli gummy worms rather than those looking to enjoy an RTD by the beach. While the margarita was slightly more palatable than the hibiscus and paloma flavors, overall, this was a hard seltzer that I just couldn’t stomach. 

19. Calidad Agua Fresca

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
I love agua frescas. A simple combination of fruit juices, sugar, and water, it’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot day. So, when I discovered that Calidad turned that classic street market drink into a hard seltzer, I couldn’t wait to dive in. And with flavors like hibiscus watermelon and prickly pear pomegranate, I was sure these would be some of the more interesting options out there.

When I popped those cans open, I was greeted with the pleasing scents of hibiscus, pomegranate, and pineapple. But then I tasted them, and unfortunately, the taste didn’t match those tantalizing smells. Instead, I got a strange, nutty flavor that just didn’t fit. While there were definite hints of citrus, they weren’t strong enough to overcome that salty, nuttiness. Combined with a bitter finish and a relatively flat seltzer, these agua frescas leave much to be desired.

18. White Claw Surge

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
The original hard seltzer, White Claw has over 30 flavors to choose from. Since I already ranked every flavor from worst to best, I knew it had to be included on this list. So, I chose White Claw Surge, and if you’re a White Claw fan, you’ll probably enjoy Surge. Unfortunately, I wasn’t a fan of the original, and I like Surge even less. While these cans stand apart thanks to their loud metallic blue color, their flavors are still an artificial mess. Yes, each can tastes like blackberry, orange, or lime. But not like any real version of those fruits I’ve ever tasted. Instead, I get a chemical sweetness that reminds me of those scratch-and-sniff stickers I grew up with.

With all the seltzers on the market these days, I don’t understand why White Claw is still such a big draw. It certainly isn’t the taste. But if you’re looking to get a quick buzz no matter what the seltzer tastes like, this could be the can for you. At the highest ABV on this list, each can of Surge comes in at a whopping 8%. That may not seem like a lot, but when the can is only 12 ounces, you’re guaranteed to feel this seltzer pretty quickly.

17. Truly

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
It’s fitting that Truly comes right after White Claw because they appeared on the market only a few short months later. And just like White Claw, it’s not a great choice. If you want to know which Truly flavor to try first, Tasting Table ranked 12 flavors from worst to best to help guide you. But that’s just within the Truly family. If you’re curious about which brand of hard seltzer to grab, I’d advise you to keep reading, as there are much better options out there.

Here’s what I can say about the brand: If you’re looking for a hard seltzer that will go down as easily as a can of club soda, these are probably the cans for you. While the viscosity is enjoyable, my issue with Truly is the flavors. None of them stand out. I sampled several different cans, and not one left a lasting impression.

16. Nütrl

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
As one of the more recognizable hard seltzers on the market, I couldn’t wait to taste Nütrl. Made with “real vodka and real juice,” I expected these seltzers to be delightful RTDs that were full of flavor. Unfortunately, the reality didn’t come close to my expectations. I was pretty surprised, considering these seltzers come from Anheuser-Busch, the brand behind Stella Artois, Kona Big Wave, and Golden Road — a few beers I absolutely love. 

Even though these seltzers are made with real fruit juices, you can’t tell as they all taste pretty similar. I really didn’t notice any difference between the orange and strawberry flavors. I did get subtle hints of fruit on the finish, but there just wasn’t the difference I was hoping for. That said, I wouldn’t mind throwing a few of these cans into a cooler for a party or trip to the beach, as they do go down pretty easily. Each can is light and refreshing, and since I love a tall glass of plain soda over ice with a squeeze of lemon or lime, these fit the bill perfectly. Throw in an ABV of only 4.5%, and you’ve got a simple hard seltzer that will satisfy on a hot day. I just wish the flavors were more pronounced.

15. Spindrift Spiked

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
I was very excited to try Spindrift Spiked because I’m such a big fan of its sparkling water. Unfortunately, after sipping a few different flavors, I can honestly say that I’ll stick with the original seltzer water. Each can may be spiked with 4% alcohol by volume, but the flavors are not worth it.

The problem with these cans is that, where the previous cans are underwhelming, these are overwhelming. Maybe the creators are trying to hide the alcohol in each can. Maybe they’re trying to compete with the numerous other hard seltzers out there. But whatever the reason, Spindrift’s years of trial and error in perfecting a hard seltzer have not paid off. The citrus flavors taste like several ounces of real lemon or lime juice were squeezed into each can, creating a very sour seltzer, and the other flavors don’t fare much better. If I want an alcoholic Spindrift, I’ll just add one of its original flavored seltzer waters to a cocktail and be done with it.

14. Melograno

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
These were some of the most stunning drinks on the market, so I couldn’t wait to crack open these Melograno cans. But it’s not just the cans that stand out. The flavors are really unique as well. Where other hard seltzers will come in lemon, lime, cranberry, or mango (just to name a few), each can of Melograno is a specific cocktail. There are mule, martini, mojito, margarita, cosmopolitan, and piña colada flavors. With that many choices, odds are there’s going to be a can for you. 

But before you get too excited, it turns out not one of these cans tastes like the cocktail it’s supposed to be. In fact, they all taste pretty similar, which means I was pretty disappointed. They tasted more like diluted versions of each of these cocktails rather than the actual drink itself. That may be because each of these tipples is made with blue agave wine rather than the spirit that’s usually found in the cocktail. Since these RTDs are made with agave-based spirits, there were only two that I enjoyed: the mojito and, no surprise, the margarita. But after sipping on these cans, all I really wanted to do was trade them in for the real cocktail, not these poor imitations. 

13. The Shell House

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
The Shell House is Trader Joe’s house brand hard seltzer. Available in two different variety packs, it’s adequate. While it definitely goes down easy, it’s hard to differentiate any of the flavors. The scents from each can may match the fruits emblazoned on them, but that’s where the similarity ends. Instead of a burst of peach or raspberry, I get a slightly tart, subtly sweet seltzer that has a delightful bubble. I especially appreciate that even with 5% alcohol in each can, I couldn’t taste the alcohol at all.

But the best thing about this can is the price. Unlike other seltzers on this list, these 12-packs are under $10. Because it’s from Trader Joe’s, you have two options: You can either buy one of the two varieties for $9.99, or if you only want one or two cans, Trader Joe’s has a great sales pitch where anyone can simply crack open a box and pick their favorites to buy separately. If you go that route, each can only costs about a dollar. With a price tag like that, I’d definitely grab The Shell House for my party, and you should, too.

12. High Noon

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
I’ve been imbibing High Noon ever since it was released in 2019. An easy sipper, this is the perfect can to take to the beach or a park if you’re looking to hydrate and get a quick buzz. Unlike some of the other seltzers on this list, the cans with the bright yellow moon are made with vodka or tequila and real fruit juices. Available in a variety of flavors, including the unusual pear and kiwi, I’d recommend sticking with a single-flavored four-pack as opposed to the variety pack.

Even though High Noon nails the citrus flavors, it falls short when it comes to the tropical guava and kiwi. I couldn’t get enough of the lime, lemon, and grapefruit, but the guava and kiwi were so artificially tasting, I could barely stomach a swallow, let alone two. That fake fruitiness, coupled with an unpleasant aftertaste that lingers longer than I’d like, means I’ll be skipping the cutely titled pool and tropical packs. But if you stick with the three citrus options, you’ll be very happy.

11. Topo Chico

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
Topo Chico has long been the seltzer water people have turned to for the super popular Ranch Water. Since this cocktail is such a hit, it’s no surprise Topo Chico came out with its own line of hard seltzers in a variety of different flavors. After all, Ranch Water is pretty much the original hard seltzer since it’s a simple mixture of tequila, lime juice, and soda water.

Topo Chico’s line of seltzers is a great refresher on a warm afternoon. The water has a nice carbonation that floats over the tongue. The hints of salinity and citrus remind me of the classic cocktail that put Topo Chico on the map. Unfortunately, those are the best things we can say about this bevy.

Sold in packs of 12, these seltzers come in four different flavors from Exotic Pineapple to Tropical Mango, and honestly, it’s hard to differentiate between them. While the Tangy Lemon Lime has a delightful citrusy zing, the mango and pineapple taste pretty similar. I wish the other fruit flavors were sweeter and more distinct. If they were, this seltzer would be higher on my list. It’s a fine way to wet your whistle, it’s just not my top choice.

10. Lone River

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
If you’re looking for a cocktail that takes mere seconds to whip up, the classic Ranch Water is one of the easiest. But if you’d rather not spend the time gathering your ingredients and mixing them all together in an ice-filled glass, Lone River has got you covered. Founded by Katie Beal Brown back in 2020, Lone River was meant to introduce America to the flavors of Far West Texas, where Brown’s family has been ranching for over a century. 

Available in a variety of flavors, including the classic original, blackberry, a spicy version, and even a margarita style, Lone River is the perfect seltzer to get you through a warm spring or summer day. The original tastes just like … well, the original cocktail itself. There’s a subtle tequila essence coupled with a bubbly citrus finish that makes this can totally drinkable. 

While I thoroughly enjoyed the original can, the other flavors were nothing special. Don’t misunderstand — they were fine; there just wasn’t much of a difference between the four flavors I tried. I was kind of surprised and a little disappointed, as I was really looking forward to the prickly pear and blackberry ranch waters being sweet and fruity, but instead, they were just a tart version of the original. So, in the future, when I grab a case of Lone River, I’m going to stick with the original rather than the variety pack. 

9. Kona Spiked Island Seltzer

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
I’ve always enjoyed Kona Brewing Company’s beers. They’re the perfect option when you’re looking for something that has plenty of hops but isn’t super heavy. So, when I heard the company added a variety of hard seltzers to its docket, I couldn’t wait to try them. Available in four tropical flavors, the Island Seltzers transport you to the beaches of Hawaii with every sip. Unlike other seltzers that promote tropical flavors but end up tasting artificial, Kona stands out by actually following through with its unique flavor combos. Each can really does taste like starfruit, passionfruit, or guava, rather than a chemical version of them.

Even though I would cart any of these cans to a party or potluck, my favorite was definitely the tropical punch. Filling me with memories of that bright red punch from my childhood, Kona’s version isn’t nearly as sweet, but just as tantalizing, thanks to its delightful subtlety. It’s the notes of hibiscus, though, that keep me coming back for more. When combined with dashes of tangerine and orange, you get a spiked tropical punch that satisfies from the first sip to the last.

8. Vizzy

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
The Molson Coors Beverage Company jumped on the hard seltzer bandwagon in 2020 when it added Vizzy to liquor store shelves. Its unusual combination of flavors makes Vizzy stand out from other hard seltzers. You don’t just get orange, watermelon, or black cherry. Instead, you get flavors like blueberry/pomegranate, peach/orange, or watermelon/lemonade just to name a few. While some of the fruity combinations are unusual, there’s nothing off-putting in any of them. Somehow they all work together because Molson Coors clearly put the time and effort into tasting these combinations before bottling them up.

While any of these cans could be imbibed as part of a festive happy hour or barbecue, the mimosa series also makes it okay to enjoy them with brunch. Each of the four mimosa flavors really does taste like the classic orange juice cocktail. Upon the first sip, you’re hit with that alluring tang of orange, but the strawberry, peach, or pomegranate juices keep your lips glued to the can.

Even Vizzy’s newest flavor, which is a nostalgic nod to those 50/50 playground popsicles, has plenty of acidity, but it’s the subtle vanilla finish that makes this can a standout. Although I prefer the other combinations to Vizzy’s newest, the Orange Cream Pop is a fun sipper when you’re feeling sentimental.

7. Twisted Tea

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
These cans may not be carbonated, but if you’re a fan of iced tea, you’re going to love Twisted Tea. Available as a single 24-ouncer or in a case of 12 smaller cans, these teas taste like a cup that’s just been brewed and poured over ice, which is how I’d recommend drinking them. Don’t get me wrong, you can sip it straight out of the can, but I tried it both ways and preferred it in a glass on the rocks.

With 11 flavors in its repertoire, there’s a Twisted Tea for everyone. Do you like your tea full of those earthy, herbal notes often associated with black tea? It’s here. Prefer pineapple or blueberry? Twisted has those, too. But after tasting a few of the fruit-flavored twists, I’d recommend those over the Original. The Half-&-Half tastes just like the Arnold Palmers I grew up with, while each fruit-flavored tea tastes like that classic black tea with hints of peach, raspberry, or mango.

6. Simply Spiked

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
I’ve all seen the Simply juices in the refrigerated sections of my favorite grocery stores. Pitching themselves as juice and nothing else, these popular jugs have been around for years. So, the next logical step was to put a boozy twist on them. Available in eight different flavors, Simply Spiked does something a little different: It starts with lemonade or peach juice and then put a fruity twist on it. Each can of lemonade and peach has four fruit-forward spins from the classic strawberry or blueberry lemonade to the unusual kiwi peach. But each one tastes as if it was just juiced from the freshly-picked fruit.

I love a good glass of lemonade, especially when it’s sparkling. That’s why my favorite thing about these bright yellow cans is the light carbonation inside. Each can provide a nice tickle over the tongue, making this one of the more enjoyable seltzer-drinking experiences. And if lemonade is your drink of choice, you’ll especially appreciate that four out of Simply’s eight flavors come in a 24-ounce can.

5. Ashland

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
A lot of the hard seltzer companies have come from some of the biggest names in the liquor industry. There’s Vizzy from Molson Coors, Bud Light, Kona, and Corona just to name a few. But Ashland stands apart because it was created by a group of filmmakers, athletes, and artists. People interested in joining together to create a great-tasting product made from “simple ingredients.”

Available in four different variety packs, the flavors range from classics like strawberry lemonade and watermelon to the more unusual ginger peach and rainbow sherbet. These unusual profiles make this seltzer perfect for a party because there’s something for everyone. Lovely scents of citrus and stone fruits greeted me as soon as I cracked open the cans, and those smells transferred into delicious flavor once the liquid hit my palate.

But the thing that really struck me was how much these seltzers reminded me of sours: beers that have a fruity sourness rather than that typical hoppiness you expect from a classic lager or ale. So if you’re not a beer fan, you should give these seltzers a sip. A foamy mouth-feel means they go down extra easy and have a pleasant, citrusy finish, which I couldn’t get enough of. Since each case comes with 12-ounce cans that have a basic 5% ABV, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the moment.

4. Long Drink

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
Hard seltzers and RTDs may be a relatively new thing here in the States, but it turns out Finland has been serving them up for decades. It all started back in 1952 when Helsinki was gearing up to host the summer Olympics. Concerned with how they would serve drinks to the massive crowds about to arrive in their country, a group created a ready-to-drink cocktail that could easily be distributed and enjoyed. It was a big hit, and hence, the long drink was born. 

The drink, which combined gin with fruit juices and seltzer, turned into a popular beverage that has been enjoyed at celebrations and festivals ever since. Fast forward to 2018, and the long drink made its debut in the States thanks to a small group of Finns who wanted to share the cocktail. Just like in Finland, The Finnish Long Drink was a huge hit here, and after tasting several of its flavors, I can understand why.

These RTDs are smooth and sweet without being overpowering. The citrus, peach, and cranberry taste just like juices mixed with seltzer. The gin is definitely in there, but it’s subtle, allowing the imbiber to enjoy a couple of cans without getting blitzed. While I couldn’t get enough of the traditional flavors, the zero-sugar cans have an artificial taste that turns this refreshing beverage into something undrinkable. So, if you want to try the Long Drink, stick with the traditional flavors and carry on a tradition 70 years in the making. 

3. Brewery X

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
Based out of Southern California, Brewery X started as a beer company and then expanded into hard seltzers, and from everything I tasted, I’m happy it did. Similar to the other cans on this list, these 12-ounce cans also come in at 5% alcohol by volume. But unlike some of the other brands, the flavors are legit.

The unusual Huckleberry has a wonderful berry scent and flavor, while the cherry lime has a one-two-punch of sweet cherries and tart limes. The aftertaste on both of these, however, is somewhat funky and begins to bother you as you drink down the can. The Succulent Sipper, on the other hand, is something I could drink for days.

With a can that looks almost identical to the classic Cactus Cooler soda, it’s clear that Brewery X is going for the nostalgic factor with this seltzer. It not only looks the same, but it also tastes the same: sweet with the perfect amount of tart, citrus bite. But unlike other citrus seltzers listed here, there isn’t a hint of alcohol or bitter finish. I couldn’t get over how much it tasted like that classic soda I grew up with, which means I’ll be imbibing this can from lunch until way past dinner.

2. Saint Spritz

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
If you want to take a trip to the Italian coast, the three different Saint Spritz seltzers are definitely the way to go. Coming in cute little blue and white striped cans, these spritzes invoke dreams of resort beaches dotting the Italian Riviera as soon as you see them. Each can differentiates itself with an orange, pink, or yellow stripe and the real fruit used to create the classic spritzes we’ve all come to know and love. 

The Saint Spritz Amalfi, which is made with natural orange juice, looks and tastes just like the super popular Aperol spritz, while the Saint Spritz Sicily uses lemon and basil to mimic the limoncello spritzes you can find all over Cinque Terre. Then there’s the bright pink Saint Spritz Hugo, the only spritz that isn’t necessarily Italian but easily could be. This spritz is made with elderflower and lime for those who prefer a lighter drink with a subtle floral flavor. 

But it really doesn’t matter which can you choose, you won’t be disappointed by any of them. Each one genuinely tastes like the classic spritz it’s mimicking, making these hard seltzers go down much easier than most. While I enjoyed sipping them straight from the can, if you really want to up the ante, pour them into an ice-filled goblet, grab your favorite chick lit, and who knows, you may just see the Italian coast in the distance. 

1. Corona Refresca Hard Tropical Punch

Jennifer Richmond/Tasting Table
As the most alluring cans on this list, Corona’s hard tropical punches remind me of some of my favorite ciders. The newest members of the Corona docket, these brightly colored refrescas are sweet without being overly so, and each can taste exactly like the fruit it’s labeled with. From the moment I cracked those drinks open, there was no mistaking which flavor I had in my hands, as each smells like the fruit emblazoned on the can. Sipping these seltzers only made me fall further. It didn’t matter if it was the tart bite of passionfruit or the enticing taste of sweet guava, I was a fan. When combined with a light effervescence and a stunning hue, this is definitely a seltzer I’ll happily sip all year long.

You should be careful with these cans, though. Since there’s not a single hint of alcohol, they go down quite easily, causing you to lose track of the number you’ve enjoyed. But since each can boasts a low 4.5% alcohol by volume, you could probably imbibe two or three before feeling any effects.

Read More: https://www.tastingtable.com/693579/hard-seltzer-taste-test/