What is ‘hard seltzer’ and why is it so incredibly popular?

Have you heard of ‘hard seltzer’ yet? No? Then it’s about time, because people are whispering that this drink is going to conquer the market. Hard seltzer isn’t a brand name, by the way; it refers to a category of drinks all its own. Low-alcohol drinks made with sparkling water, alcohol and a (fruit) flavor, to be precise. It’s a huge hit in America—and now it’s Europe’s turn.

Low in calories

In 2019, hard seltzer generated $1.2 billion in sales in America, and it is expected to nearly triple by 2021. Millennials in particular enjoy drinking hard seltzer. In the Netherlands, you can now buy STËLZ, the hard seltzer made with sparkling water, unsweetened fruit flavoring and 4.5% alcohol. STËLZ contains no sugar, no carbohydrates and no gluten, but it does have a natural flavor. According to its makers, it fits well with the current trend toward living a healthier and more balanced life.

Strong

Hard seltzer STËLZ comes in two flavors: Lime and Raspberry, with mango and grapefruit in the works. In Amsterdam, it was immediately stocked by specialty shop STERK, where the shelf sold out in no time. Curious? You can buy STËLZ here.

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