The Core Ingredients in Every Can
Truly Unruly hard seltzer is primarily composed of filtered water and alcohol derived from fermented cane sugar, which provides its 8% ABV. Natural flavors are added for taste, and the seltzer is sweetened using a combination of sugar and artificial sweeteners like Sucralose and Acesulfame Potassium. Citric acid is included for tartness and preservation, while sodium citrate helps regulate pH and balance the flavor.
- Filtered Water: The base of the seltzer.
- Alcohol from Fermented Cane Sugar: Provides the alcohol content without adding significant flavor.
- Natural Flavors: Contribute the specific fruit tastes.
- Sweeteners: A mix of sugar and artificial sweeteners for sweetness with lower sugar content.
- Citric Acid: Adds tartness and acts as a preservative.
- Sodium Citrate: A buffering agent that helps balance the flavor.
Truly Unruly Variety Pack Flavors
The Truly Unruly line is available in different variety packs, each featuring unique flavors with slight variations in ingredients to achieve their specific profiles. The original variety pack includes Berry Blast, Tropical Twist, Citrus Crush, and Strawberry Smash. A newer Truly Unruly Lemonade pack offers flavors like "OG" Original, Bumpin' Blue Razz, Punched-Up Pineapple, and Wild Pink. While sharing the core ingredients, the Lemonade varieties typically include lemon juice from concentrate and may use fruit or vegetable juice for color, whereas the original pack primarily uses natural flavors and sea salt. You can find the specific ingredients listed on the packaging for each flavor.
Comparison of Truly Unruly Packs
| Feature | Truly Unruly Original Variety | Truly Unruly Lemonade Variety |
|---|---|---|
| Flavors | Tropical Twist, Berry Blast, Citrus Crush, Strawberry Smash | "OG" Original, Bumpin' Blue Razz, Punched-Up Pineapple, Wild Pink |
| ABV | 8% | 8% |
| Sweeteners | Sugar, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium | Sugar, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium, (sometimes Agave Nectar in other packs) |
| Key Flavor Agents | Natural flavors, sea salt | Natural flavors, lemon juice from concentrate, sea salt |
| Color | Clear | May include fruit and vegetable juice or pear juice concentrate for color |
| Sugar Content | 1g per 12oz | 1g per 12oz |
The Role of Key Additives
Beyond the primary components, additives play a crucial role in shaping the final product. Citric acid and sodium citrate are vital for balancing sweetness with tartness and maintaining stability. The inclusion of artificial sweeteners helps achieve a sweet taste with a lower sugar content. In the lemonade variations, fruit juice concentrates directly contribute to the flavor profile, and some varieties use concentrated juices or vegetable juices specifically for coloring.
High ABV Fermentation Process
Achieving the 8% ABV in Truly Unruly involves a specific fermentation process. Cane sugar is fermented using a yeast strain capable of tolerating higher alcohol concentrations while minimizing undesirable flavors. Yeast nutrients are often added to the sugar wash to support the yeast throughout this process. Following fermentation, the liquid is filtered to ensure a clean, neutral base before the addition of flavors and other ingredients. This process is designed to create a high-alcohol seltzer that remains smooth and enjoyable to drink.
Conclusion: The Formula for Unruly Flavor
Truly Unruly hard seltzer is crafted with a specific set of ingredients to deliver a bold, high-ABV beverage. Its base consists of filtered water and alcohol from fermented cane sugar, enhanced by natural flavors, citric acid for tartness, and a blend of sugar and artificial sweeteners for sweetness. The different variety packs, particularly the Lemonade line, introduce variations like fruit juice concentrates for distinct flavors and colors. The manufacturing process is tailored to produce an 8% ABV seltzer that maintains a smooth, drinkable quality. For additional information from the manufacturer, the Boston Beer Company, you can explore their news releases.
