Is Evian Sparkling or Still? Your Guide to Evian Water Varieties

November 25, 2025 •

4 min read

Evian, the renowned bottled water brand, has been filtering through glacial rocks in the French Alps for over 15 years to achieve its unique mineral composition. Initially known exclusively for its still water, the brand has since expanded its offerings to include both still and sparkling water options to cater to diverse consumer preferences.

Quick Summary

Evian produces both still and sparkling natural mineral water from the same source in the French Alps, providing a choice between its classic smooth, still variety and a newer, effervescent option with added carbonation.

Key Points

Variety: Evian is available in both classic still and newly introduced sparkling varieties.
Source: Both still and sparkling Evian water come from the same natural spring in the French Alps.
Mineral Content: The natural mineral composition from the 15-year filtration process is present in both versions.
Carbonation: The difference lies in the carbonation; still water has none, while sparkling water has fine, delicate bubbles added.
Occasion: Still Evian is ideal for daily hydration, whereas the sparkling version is suited for meals and celebratory moments.
Purity: No chemicals are used to filter or purify Evian water; its mineral content and taste are naturally derived.

The Dual Nature of Evian: Both Still and Sparkling

For years, Evian was synonymous with still, natural mineral water, prized for its smooth taste and balanced mineral content. The brand's identity was built on the unique, 15-year journey of its water as it filtered through glacial rocks in the French Alps. However, recognizing evolving consumer tastes, Evian introduced a sparkling version to its product line, offering a crisp, carbonated experience alongside its famous still option. This means that when you ask, 'is Evian sparkling or still?', the answer is, in fact, both. The choice depends on your preference for a flat or effervescent beverage.

Evian Still: The Classic Alpine Refreshment

Evian's classic still water is sourced directly from the Cachat Spring in the town of Évian-les-Bains. Its taste profile is a result of the long filtration process through layers of protected underground rock, which naturally enriches the water with a unique blend of minerals and electrolytes. This natural composition contributes to its distinctive, smooth, and crisp taste. Many water connoisseurs appreciate still Evian for its purity and soft mouthfeel, which is why it has been a staple in fine dining and everyday hydration for centuries. It's a naturally pure product, with nothing added for taste or enhancement.

Evian Sparkling: The Effervescent Alpine Twist

The introduction of Evian Sparkling water brought an effervescent alternative to the brand's portfolio. This product takes the same pristine natural mineral water and infuses it with fine, delicate bubbles, creating a refreshing and light sparkling sensation. The sparkling variant is available in different packaging, including cans and glass bottles, and is often marketed as a beverage for special occasions or to complement meals. The carbonation adds a new dimension to the familiar taste, awakening the senses while still delivering the same naturally balanced mineral composition found in its still counterpart.

Comparing Evian Still vs. Evian Sparkling

When deciding between the two, the primary factors are taste preference and occasion. The still version is a timeless choice for pure hydration, while the sparkling option adds a celebratory or palate-cleansing element. The core mineral content remains the same, as both are derived from the same Alpine source.


Feature	Evian Still	Evian Sparkling
Sensation	Flat, smooth, and refreshing	Light, fizzy, and effervescent
Taste Profile	Crisp and pure, highlighting natural minerals	Dazzling and refreshingly light with a fine sparkle
Origin	Natural spring water from the French Alps	Same natural mineral water from the French Alps
Carbonation	None	Added, fine carbonation
Best for	Everyday hydration, subtle taste preference	Pairing with meals, special occasions, or a bubbly alternative to still water

The Evian Journey: From Alps to Bottle

Evian’s water begins its journey high in the French Alps as rain and snow. Over a period of more than 15 years, it travels slowly through glacial rock formations, which serve as a natural filter. This geological process is what imbues the water with its specific mineral content, including calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonates. When it emerges at the spring in Évian-les-Bains, it has a naturally stable composition that contributes to its renowned taste. The company then bottles this water directly at the source, without adding or treating it with chemicals, to preserve its natural purity.

This commitment to natural filtration is a key differentiator for the brand. For the sparkling variant, the process is concluded with the addition of carbonation, but the fundamental mineral water remains unchanged. The brand's dedication to preserving the purity of its source is a cornerstone of its identity and why consumers trust the quality of the water, whether it's still or sparkling.

Conclusion: The Choice is Yours

Ultimately, the question of 'is Evian sparkling or still?' is answered by the product you choose. While the brand is historically famous for its still mineral water, the modern market offers both options, both rooted in the same pristine source in the French Alps. The original still version provides a classic, smooth hydration experience, while the sparkling variant offers a carbonated twist on the familiar crisp taste. Your choice comes down to personal preference for carbonation. Both types deliver the naturally occurring electrolytes and balanced mineral composition that Evian is known for.

For more details on Evian's history and water attributes, you can visit the official Evian website at evian.com.

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the original and classic version of Evian water is still, or non-carbonated. The brand introduced a sparkling option later in its history to expand its product line.

Evian water originates from a natural spring located in the town of Évian-les-Bains, nestled in the French Alps. It begins as rain and snow on a glacial plateau and filters through rocks for over 15 years before being bottled.

The main difference is the carbonation. Evian still is flat and smooth, while Evian sparkling contains fine, delicate bubbles, offering a refreshing effervescence.

While both use the same natural mineral water, the added carbonation in Evian sparkling creates a different mouthfeel and a lighter, more effervescent taste sensation compared to the smooth, crisp taste of the still version.

Evian's popularity stems from its pure Alpine source, unique mineral composition, and consistent, high-quality taste. It is perceived as a premium brand due to its natural filtration process and reputation.

Yes, Evian Sparkling can be used for more than just drinking. Its subtle effervescence makes it suitable for creating refreshing mocktails, cocktails, or as an elegant accompaniment to meals to cleanse the palate.

Yes, the core mineral water is the same for both products. The sparkling version simply adds carbonation to the naturally filtered mineral water, so the mineral composition remains consistent across both varieties.