What Defines Hard Alcohol?
Hard alcohol, or liquor, is defined by distillation. Unlike beer or wine, hard alcohol involves distilling a fermented base to increase the alcohol by volume (ABV). Examples of hard alcohol include vodka, rum, gin, and tequila. A beverage must contain a base of these distilled spirits to be considered hard alcohol.
The Two Main Types of Canned Cocktails
Not all canned cocktails are created equal. Their classification depends on their alcohol source. Generally, ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages fall into two major categories based on their alcohol source:
- Spirit-based RTDs: These are made with distilled spirits. Brands use vodka or tequila as their base, meaning these products are considered hard alcohol. They have higher ABVs and can be found in liquor stores.
- Malt-based RTDs: These are brewed with a malted barley or fermented cane sugar base, like beer or hard seltzer. Legally, they are often classified as flavored malt beverages (FMBs). These drinks will not contain distilled spirits and are therefore not considered hard alcohol. They are typically found in grocery or convenience stores where beer is sold.
Alcohol Content vs. Hard Alcohol Classification
It's crucial to differentiate between a product's ABV and its classification as hard alcohol. A high ABV does not mean a drink is hard alcohol. Some malt-based beverages can have a relatively high ABV, but they are not legally considered distilled spirits. A spirit-based canned cocktail with a low ABV is still hard alcohol because its base is a distilled spirit. Consumers should check the ingredients label to determine the alcohol source, not just the percentage.
Why Do Canned Cocktails Exist?
This diversity in canned cocktail types is driven by market demand and regulatory differences. The rise of the RTD market has been fueled by consumer interest in convenience and unique flavors. The ability to produce cocktails using different alcohol bases allows companies to navigate varying state and federal regulations. By using a malt base, a company can sell products where hard liquor is prohibited, expanding its market reach significantly. This regulatory arbitrage is a key reason for the split between spirits-based and malt-based ready-to-drink products.
How to Identify a True Canned Cocktail
To confirm if your beverage contains hard alcohol, look for these cues on the packaging:
- Read the label: The front and back of the can will state the type of alcohol used. Look for phrases like "made with real vodka" or "crafted with tequila". Malt-based products will likely mention their fermented sugar or malt base.
- Check the ingredients list: A true canned cocktail will list a specific spirit, such as "vodka" or "gin," rather than just mentioning a generic alcohol base.
- Consult the vendor: Where the product is sold can be an indicator. If it is only available in a licensed liquor store, it is likely spirits-based. If it is sold in a regular grocery store alongside beer and hard seltzer, it is likely malt-based.
Comparison: Spirit-Based vs. Malt-Based RTDs
| Feature | Spirit-Based Canned Cocktails | Malt-Based Canned Cocktails (FMBs) |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol Base | Distilled spirits (vodka, gin, tequila) | Fermented malted barley or cane sugar |
| Classification | Hard alcohol / Liquor | Flavored Malt Beverage / Beer |
| Typical ABV | Generally higher (10-20%+), but can vary | Generally lower (4-8%), but can vary |
| Flavor Profile | Often more complex, mirroring classic cocktails | Tends to be lighter, sometimes sweeter |
| Retail Location | Typically sold in liquor stores | Often available in grocery or convenience stores |
| Legal Status | Classified and taxed as a distilled spirit | Classified and taxed as a beer |
The Legal Gray Areas and Consumer Confusion
The varying regulations from state to state add to consumer confusion. Some states have adapted to the ready-to-drink trend with specific laws, while others lag behind, leaving the classification murky. The blurring of product lines, with some spirit-based RTDs being carbonated like seltzers, further complicates matters for consumers who assume all canned beverages are similar in nature. This has led to many underestimating the strength of some RTDs and inadvertently over-consuming. For example, a 12.5% ABV spirit-based canned cocktail can be significantly stronger than a typical 5% beer or hard seltzer, even though they may sit on the same shelf.
Conclusion
Whether canned cocktails are considered hard alcohol is not a simple yes or no answer; it depends on the specific product's ingredients. A canned cocktail with distilled spirits is hard alcohol, while one made from a fermented malt or sugar base is not. This affects the product's taste, strength, legal classification, distribution, and taxation. Consumers should examine the label to understand what they are drinking. As the RTD market grows, clear communication and consumer awareness will be important.
