Understanding the Truly Hard Seltzer Base
For years, drinkers have debated the source of alcohol in popular hard seltzer brands. In the case of the original Truly Hard Seltzer, the answer is surprisingly simple and rooted in a brewing-like process. The core product line contains alcohol derived from fermented cane sugar, rather than liquor or a traditional malt base. This process is crucial for producing a drink that is both gluten-free and clean-tasting, acting as a neutral foundation for the fruit flavors.
The Fermentation Process
Making Truly's base alcohol is similar to brewing beer but uses a different sugar source. First, cane sugar is combined with water and yeast in a fermenter. The yeast consumes the sugar and produces alcohol, a process known as fermentation. After this is complete, the liquid is filtered to remove impurities, resulting in a clear, tasteless alcohol. Natural fruit juices and flavors are then added before the mixture is carbonated and packaged.
Ingredients in Original Truly Hard Seltzer:
- Carbonated water
- Cane sugar alcohol base
- Natural flavors
- Real fruit juice from concentrate
- Other naturally gluten-free ingredients
The Arrival of Truly Vodka Seltzer
To offer a more robust, spirits-based option, Truly launched a new product line in October 2022 called Truly Vodka Seltzer. This line directly addresses consumers who prefer a cocktail-style beverage with a distilled spirit base. These products clearly state their difference from the original line, containing actual, six-times distilled vodka. This spirits-based offering provides a different drinking experience and taste profile compared to the cane sugar base.
Flavors and Nutritional Information
While both the classic hard seltzers and the vodka seltzers boast a 5% ABV, there are subtle differences in their nutritional content. The Truly Vodka Seltzer contains 110 calories per 12oz can, slightly more than the 100 calories found in the standard hard seltzer. This can be attributed to the different ingredient composition, which includes both the distilled vodka and real fruit juice.
Truly's Alcohol Base Comparison
| Feature | Original Truly Hard Seltzer | Truly Vodka Seltzer |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol Base | Fermented cane sugar | Six-times distilled vodka |
| Gluten-Free | Yes | Yes |
| ABV (per 12oz can) | 5% | 5% |
| Calories (per 12oz can) | 100 | 110 |
| Carbs (per 12oz can) | 2g or less | 3-4g depending on flavor |
Beyond Seltzer: Other Truly Alcohol Products
It is also worth noting that the brand's innovation goes beyond these two main product lines. Truly's portfolio includes other offerings like Hard Lemonades and Hard Punches. Most of these flavored varieties are also made with the fermented cane sugar base, just like the classic hard seltzers, offering the same light and refreshing experience but with a sweeter, more flavorful profile. Consumers should always check the product packaging to confirm the exact ingredients and alcohol type, as the brand continues to expand with new flavors and product experiments, like its recent foray into Tequila soda.
A Matter of Preference and Ingredients
Ultimately, understanding the difference between the alcohol bases comes down to consumer preference and dietary needs. For those seeking a simple, low-calorie, and gluten-free option from a fermented sugar base, the original Truly Hard Seltzer is the go-to. For drinkers desiring a canned cocktail with a familiar, distilled spirit taste, the Truly Vodka Seltzer provides that specific experience. The clear labeling on Truly's newer products helps differentiate between the two, so consumers can make an informed choice based on their beverage of choice.
Conclusion
To answer the question, "what alcohol is in Truly seltzer," you must first identify which product you're referring to. The traditional Truly Hard Seltzer is made from fermented cane sugar, a brewing-like process that creates a naturally gluten-free and low-calorie base. In contrast, Truly introduced a spirits-based line, Truly Vodka Seltzer, which is crafted with real distilled vodka for a different, cocktail-inspired flavor. Both products maintain a 5% ABV, but their distinct alcohol sources cater to different consumer tastes and preferences. Checking the packaging is the most reliable way to know exactly what is in your Truly.
