Yes, High Noon Seltzer Absolutely Has Alcohol
For anyone wondering, the answer is a clear yes: High Noon is an alcoholic beverage. Its specific category is a ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail, specifically a spirits-based hard seltzer. The brand’s standard vodka seltzer line, along with its tequila seltzer variants, typically contain 4.5% alcohol by volume (ABV), putting it in line with many popular light beers and other hard seltzers on the market. However, the crucial differentiator is the type of alcohol used in the product.
The Source of Alcohol: Vodka or Tequila
High Noon’s identity is built around its spirit-based composition, a key selling point that separates it from competitors. The alcohol is sourced in one of two ways, depending on the product line:
- Vodka Seltzers: The primary High Noon line is made with five-times distilled vodka crafted from Midwest-grown corn. This provides a clean, smooth, and neutral alcohol base that allows the real fruit juice flavors to shine without an overpowering, fermented aftertaste.
- Tequila Seltzers: High Noon also offers a tequila-based line, which uses real blanco tequila as its alcohol source. This gives these specific seltzers a distinct, agave-forward character that appeals to fans of tequila-based cocktails. The result is a more sophisticated and layered flavor profile than many other canned drinks.
This commitment to using real, high-quality spirits is a primary reason why many consumers find High Noon to be a higher-quality, better-tasting option than rival brands that use a cheaper, malted base.
High Noon vs. Malt-Based Seltzers
Understanding the distinction between spirits-based and malt-based seltzers is key to understanding High Noon’s place in the market. Most hard seltzers are made by fermenting cane sugar or malted barley, a process that creates a malt liquor base. While this is a cost-effective method, the resulting product can sometimes have a distinct taste that needs to be masked by strong, often artificial, flavorings. High Noon avoids this by building its seltzer on a foundation of real vodka or tequila. This fundamental difference affects not only the taste but also the ingredients and gluten content.
| Feature | High Noon Seltzer | Typical Malt-Based Seltzer |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol Source | Real Vodka (corn) or Tequila (agave) | Fermented cane sugar or malted barley |
| Typical ABV | 4.5% | 4-5% |
| Primary Ingredients | Real vodka/tequila, real fruit juice, sparkling water | Fermented alcohol base, natural/artificial flavors |
| Calories | 100 per 12oz can | Varies, often similar, but can have more sugar |
| Gluten Status | Gluten-free | Some are not gluten-free (those made with malted barley) |
| Flavor Profile | Clean, crisp, and pure fruit flavor | Can have a malty or artificial aftertaste |
Key Ingredients and Nutritional Profile
Beyond its alcohol source, High Noon stands out for its commitment to using simple, high-quality ingredients.
- Real Fruit Juice: High Noon seltzers contain a blend of real fruit juices, which contributes to their authentic flavor profile. This is a significant factor in their taste compared to competitors that rely on artificial flavorings.
- No Added Sugar: The brand prides itself on having no added sugar. The sweetness comes entirely from the natural fruit juice, keeping the calorie count low.
- Gluten-Free: Since the vodka is distilled from corn and the tequila from agave, all High Noon seltzers are gluten-free, making them a safe choice for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
- 100 Calories: Each standard 12-ounce can contains only 100 calories, appealing to health-conscious consumers looking for a low-calorie alternative to other alcoholic beverages.
Exploring the High Noon Product Line
High Noon’s portfolio has expanded since its launch in 2019, now offering several lines to cater to different tastes. The core line of Vodka Seltzers includes classic flavors like Pineapple, Black Cherry, Watermelon, and Grapefruit. Additionally, they have introduced:
- Tequila Seltzers: Featuring flavors such as Lime, Strawberry, and Passionfruit, these offer a zesty, agave-infused twist.
- Vodka Iced Tea: A non-carbonated option that uses the same real vodka and is available in flavors like Original, Peach, and Lemon.
For more information on High Noon's full product range and company philosophy, you can visit the official High Noon website.
Conclusion
To conclude, High Noon seltzer does have alcohol, and its source is a major point of differentiation. By using premium vodka distilled from corn or real blanco tequila, rather than a cheaper malt base, High Noon offers a cleaner, crisper taste profile. Paired with real fruit juice, no added sugar, a gluten-free composition, and just 100 calories per can, High Noon has successfully positioned itself as a premium spirits-based hard seltzer, setting it apart in a crowded market. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking a high-quality, refreshing, and authentic-tasting alcoholic beverage.
