The Core Difference: Seltzer vs. Spirits
To definitively answer the question "is there vodka in White Claw Black Cherry?", one must distinguish between two different product lines from the same brand. The original, standard White Claw Black Cherry is a hard seltzer, which uses a fermented alcohol base. In contrast, the company also produces a standalone spirit called White Claw Spirits Black Cherry Flavored Vodka, which is an entirely separate and much stronger product. Understanding this fundamental difference is key to knowing what you're drinking.
The Classic Hard Seltzer: What's Inside?
The alcohol in the popular hard seltzer cans is produced through the fermentation of sugars, often from gluten-free grains or cane sugar. The grains are first mashed and mixed with water and yeast, which consumes the sugar and produces ethanol. This base is then filtered and purified until it's flavorless, a critical step that allows the added fruit flavorings to shine without any residual 'beery' taste. According to the company's official support page, the specific ingredients for the Black Cherry hard seltzer include purified carbonated water, the fermented gluten-free alcohol base, natural flavors, cane sugar, citric acid, and natural cherry juice concentrate.
White Claw Spirits: The Real Vodka Product
In 2023, White Claw expanded its portfolio with the launch of its own line of distilled spirits, including a Black Cherry flavored vodka. This is the product that actually contains vodka. Unlike the hard seltzer, White Claw Spirits Black Cherry Flavored Vodka is made from 100% American grain that is distilled five times. The spirit then undergoes a special filtration process called 'Triple Wave Filtering' before being infused with the signature black cherry flavor. This results in a much higher alcohol content (around 30% ABV) compared to the hard seltzer's standard 5% ABV.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | White Claw Black Cherry Hard Seltzer | White Claw Spirits Black Cherry Flavored Vodka |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol Base | Gluten-free fermented sugar base | Distilled American grain |
| Product Type | Hard Seltzer | Flavored Vodka |
| Alcohol by Volume (ABV) | 5% (US & Canada) | 30% |
| Calories (per 12oz can) | 100 | Varies significantly due to ABV |
| Format | Canned, ready-to-drink | Bottled spirit for mixing |
| Packaging | Slim can | Traditional liquor bottle |
What to Look For When Buying
To avoid confusion, it's helpful to pay attention to the product's packaging and description. The hard seltzer is sold in slim cans, typically in packs of six or twelve, with a 5% ABV clearly marked. The flavored vodka, on the other hand, comes in a traditional glass bottle and has a much higher alcohol percentage (30% ABV), which is prominently displayed on the label. The bottle and packaging will explicitly state that it is a 'Flavored Vodka'. If you see a can, it's a hard seltzer. If you see a bottle, you're looking at the distilled spirit.
White Claw's Diverse Alcohol Options
The White Claw brand has expanded significantly beyond its core hard seltzer. In addition to the flavored vodkas, they offer products like White Claw Surge, which has a higher 8% ABV, and White Claw Tequila Smash cocktails. This growing portfolio explains why the simple question about vodka has a more complex answer than it used to. Each product is crafted with a different alcohol base and is designed for a distinct drinking experience.
Conclusion: Know Your Claw
So, is there vodka in White Claw Black Cherry? The answer depends entirely on the product you're holding. The standard, low-calorie hard seltzer in a can does not contain vodka; its alcohol is derived from fermented sugar. However, the brand's premium, full-strength White Claw Spirits Black Cherry Flavored Vodka, sold in a bottle, is indeed a distilled spirit. Always check the packaging to confirm you have the product you intend to purchase, whether it's the light and crisp seltzer or the potent flavored vodka. For more product details and information on the brand's full lineup, visit the official White Claw website White Claw.
