The Alcoholic Base of High Noon Seltzers
High Noon’s distinguishing feature is its use of real, distilled spirits, setting it apart from many other hard seltzers on the market that are fermented from malted barley or cane sugar. This choice of a pure spirit base results in a cleaner, crisper taste that enthusiasts often prefer. High Noon's original and most popular products are all built on a base of corn-based vodka. This high-quality vodka is distilled five times to ensure unparalleled smoothness, which helps it blend seamlessly with the natural fruit juices and sparkling water.
The Original High Noon Vodka Seltzer
The original High Noon hard seltzer is crafted with real vodka and real fruit juice. The spirit is derived from Midwest corn and undergoes a meticulous five-time distillation process to achieve a clean, neutral profile. This prevents the harsh, often artificial aftertaste found in malt-based beverages. The brand pairs this smooth vodka with a mix of real fruit juices, resulting in a vibrant, natural flavor. With 100 calories per can and no added sugar, it appeals to consumers seeking a lighter, more refreshing alcoholic option.
The High Noon Tequila Seltzer Line
Recognizing the growing popularity of tequila, High Noon expanded its offerings in 2023 with the introduction of High Noon Tequila Seltzer. This line is made with real Blanco tequila and real fruit juice, directly competing with the numerous malt-based tequila alternatives. By using a genuine agave spirit, High Noon provides a more authentic and higher-quality flavor profile for tequila lovers. The current tequila seltzer lineup features flavors such as Grapefruit, Lime, Passionfruit, and Strawberry.
High Noon Vodka Iced Tea
In 2024, High Noon branched into the hard iced tea market with a non-carbonated option made from real vodka and iced tea. This line was a strategic move to innovate within the hard tea category, which had previously been dominated by malt-based options. Flavors include Original, Peach, Lemon, and Raspberry, providing a smoother, less effervescent alternative for consumers. Like its seltzer counterparts, the iced tea line is made with real vodka and has no added sugar, maintaining the brand's commitment to clean ingredients.
Why High Noon Opts for Spirits Over Malt
The decision to use real spirits is a key marketing and quality-control strategy for E&J Gallo Winery, High Noon's parent company. While many hard seltzers use a fermented sugar or malt base, which is generally cheaper to produce, High Noon positions itself as a premium product. The use of vodka or tequila provides a cleaner palate, allowing the real fruit juice flavors to shine without a competing malt taste. This focus on quality has helped High Noon become a leader in the spirit-based canned cocktail market.
Comparison of High Noon’s Alcohol Bases
| Feature | High Noon Vodka Seltzer | High Noon Tequila Seltzer | High Noon Vodka Iced Tea |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Alcohol | Corn-based vodka | Blanco Tequila | Corn-based vodka |
| Flavoring | Real fruit juice | Real fruit juice | Iced Tea and real juice |
| Carbonation | Carbonated | Carbonated | Non-carbonated |
| Calories | 100 calories (per can) | Varies slightly by flavor | 90 calories (per can) |
| Key Benefit | Clean, crisp, and refreshing | Authentic tequila taste | Smooth, non-carbonated |
| Alcohol by Volume | 4.5% ABV | 4.5% ABV | 5% ABV |
Conclusion: More Than a Single Spirit
High Noon's identity is defined by its use of real, distilled spirits, differentiating it from traditional malt-based seltzers. While the original hard seltzers are famously made with a five-times distilled corn-based vodka, the brand has smartly expanded its portfolio. With successful launches of its Blanco tequila seltzer line and its non-carbonated vodka iced tea, High Noon caters to a wider audience while maintaining its core promise of high-quality, real spirits. This commitment to premium ingredients has cemented its position as a top contender in the booming ready-to-drink cocktail category. For consumers, this means more options and a more refined drinking experience straight from the can. [Link: https://www.highnoonspirits.com/our-story.html]
