High Noon Tequila Seltzer: What Sets It Apart?
High Noon has built a reputation on using real spirits and real fruit juice, a strategy that carried over to its tequila seltzer line, which features blanco tequila from Jalisco, Mexico. This contrasts with many hard seltzers that use malt liquor or neutral spirits as their alcohol base. The use of premium ingredients is central to the High Noon brand, and its tequila seltzers maintain this standard, delivering a cleaner and more authentic flavor profile for many consumers. Each 12oz can is 100 calories, gluten-free, and contains 4.5% ABV with no added sugar.
A Deep Dive into High Noon Tequila Seltzer Flavors
High Noon's tequila seltzer variety pack comes with four distinct flavors, each with its own character:
- Lime: Often compared to a premixed, no-sugar margarita, the Lime flavor is typically lauded for a strong, zesty, and authentic lime taste. It is arguably the most tequila-forward flavor, perfect for those who want the tequila to shine.
- Strawberry: This flavor is generally described as fruity and pleasant, but some reviewers note that the tequila notes are more muted, letting the strawberry take center stage. It provides a sweeter, berry-infused profile without being overly sugary.
- Grapefruit: This flavor polarizes some drinkers due to its varying sweetness. Some find it refreshingly crisp and tangy, while others perceive a less balanced, overly tart flavor profile. It captures the authentic grapefruit essence, making it a favorite for those who prefer less sweetness.
- Passionfruit: A more tropical option, the Passionfruit flavor is generally well-regarded for its balanced, semi-sweet profile and vibrant fruit notes. It strikes a good balance between tart and sweet, offering a pleasant sipping experience.
The Real Deal: Tequila vs. Vodka High Noon
High Noon's success began with its vodka-based seltzers, and the introduction of a tequila line created a direct comparison. The primary difference lies in the base spirit and the resulting flavor complexity. Vodka is a neutral spirit, acting as a clean canvas that allows the real fruit juice to be the dominant flavor. Tequila, on the other hand, contributes its own earthy, vegetal, and agave notes, which add a layer of complexity to the fruit flavors. While some find the tequila is too subtle, particularly in the strawberry flavor, others appreciate how the agave notes elevate the fruit. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether you prefer a clean fruit-forward drink or one with more spirit character. For some flavors, like Passionfruit, the difference is almost negligible.
Comparison Table: High Noon Tequila Seltzer vs. Competitors
| Feature | High Noon Tequila Seltzer | Cutwater Tequila Margarita | Canteen Tequila Soda |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Spirit | Real Blanco Tequila | Real Tequila | Real Tequila |
| Calories | 100 per 12oz can | Varies, typically higher (approx. 200) | 99 per 12oz can |
| Added Sugar | No added sugar | Yes | No added sugar |
| Flavors | Lime, Strawberry, Grapefruit, Passionfruit | Lime, Mango, Peach, Strawberry | Watermelon, Grapefruit, Lime |
| Flavor Profile | Lighter, crisp, focuses on fruit | Cocktail-like, sweeter | Balanced, less intense |
| ABV | 4.5% | Higher (typically 10-12.5%) | 5.0% |
The Final Verdict: So, Is It Any Good?
For those seeking a low-calorie, gluten-free, and refreshing canned cocktail made with real ingredients, High Noon tequila seltzer is a solid contender. Its use of real blanco tequila and fruit juice sets it apart from many malt-based competitors and even its own vodka-based counterpart, offering a more nuanced and characterful taste. While flavor preferences differ—and some find the tequila profile more prominent than others—the general consumer sentiment is largely positive, praising its crisp taste and quality ingredients.
It's an excellent choice for a variety of social situations, from a day at the pool to a taco night at home, offering convenience without sacrificing quality. The success of the tequila line and positive reception confirm its status as a top-tier spirits-based seltzer. Ultimately, if you appreciate the nuanced flavors of real tequila and enjoy a light, fruity drink, High Noon's tequila seltzer is definitely worth a try. For further information on the brand and its products, you can visit their website.
Conclusion
High Noon's tequila seltzers are, by most accounts, quite good, especially for those who value authentic ingredients and lower calorie counts. They offer a more premium and flavorful alternative to traditional hard seltzers and malt-based drinks. The variety of flavors caters to different tastes, from the more tequila-forward lime to the sweeter strawberry. The decision of whether they are 'good' ultimately depends on your personal preference for tequila's subtle presence and a fruit-forward seltzer, but the brand's reputation for quality is well-earned.
