Decoding the Flavored Malt Beverage Base
At its core, Hard MTN DEW is classified as a flavored malt beverage (FMB), a type of alcoholic drink brewed in a similar fashion to beer. This means that the alcohol is derived from a fermented malt base, rather than a spirit like vodka or rum. The beverage is the result of a collaboration between beverage giant PepsiCo, who licenses the Mountain Dew name, and the brewing experts at The Boston Beer Company. This partnership leverages the recognizable taste of the soft drink and combines it with a boozy kick, specifically a 5% alcohol by volume (ABV). Unlike many hard seltzers, the fermentation process for an FMB means that the final product, including Hard MTN DEW, is not gluten-free and should be avoided by individuals with gluten sensitivities.
A Closer Look at the Key Ingredients
Beyond the fermented malt base, the ingredient list for Hard MTN DEW is designed to replicate the signature taste of the original soda, but with some notable differences to accommodate its alcoholic nature and specific nutritional profile. A typical ingredients list includes:
- Malt Base: The fermented grain (barley malt) provides the alcoholic content.
- Water: The primary liquid base for the beverage.
- Natural and Artificial Flavors: These are what give each flavor its distinct taste, from the original citrus to Baja Blast.
- Artificial Sweeteners: To achieve its zero-sugar status, Hard MTN DEW relies on non-nutritive sweeteners such as sucralose and acesulfame potassium.
- Certified Color: Depending on the flavor, different food colorings are used to create the familiar hues. For example, the original is bright yellow due to FD&C Yellow #5.
- Citric Acid: Provides the tart, citrusy notes common to Mountain Dew products.
- Carbonation: Adds the familiar fizzy texture.
Hard MTN DEW Flavors
Beyond the original citrus, the brand has introduced a number of other popular varieties to appeal to a wider audience. The core lineup typically includes:
- Original: The classic citrus flavor that mimics the flagship soda.
- Baja Blast: A fan-favorite tropical lime flavor originally associated with Taco Bell.
- Livewire: An orange citrus flavor, replicating the soda version.
- Code Red: A cherry-flavored option for fans of the original Code Red soft drink.
- Watermelon: A fruity, seasonal flavor addition.
Hard MTN DEW vs. Original MTN DEW
Understanding the differences between the two beverages can help clarify exactly what you’re drinking. The table below highlights the key distinctions:
| Feature | Hard MTN DEW | Original MTN DEW |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol Content | 5% ABV | 0% ABV |
| Caffeine | Zero caffeine | Yes, contains caffeine |
| Sugar | Zero sugar (uses artificial sweeteners) | High fructose corn syrup |
| Calories (per 12oz) | ~100 calories | ~170 calories |
| Gluten | Contains gluten (malt base) | Gluten-free |
| Taste Profile | Milder flavor, with a noticeable artificial sweetener aftertaste for some | Full sugar taste, signature citrus flavor |
| Distribution | Sold via The Boston Beer Co. | Sold via PepsiCo |
Nutritional Breakdown and Considerations
The most significant nutritional aspect of Hard MTN DEW is its zero-sugar formulation, which results in a lower calorie count compared to the regular soft drink. Each 12-ounce serving is typically 100 calories. While this may seem appealing to those counting calories, it is important to remember that it is still an alcoholic beverage and should be consumed responsibly. The use of artificial sweeteners, while keeping the sugar content at zero, means the taste is notably different from the full-sugar version. Some reviewers have described an overwhelming artificial sweetener taste that can overshadow the familiar citrus notes. The complete absence of caffeine is another key difference, meaning it does not carry the stimulating effect of its soft drink counterpart, so it won't give you the "energy" rush that some expect from the brand.
Conclusion
In summary, what is in MTN Dew Hard can be distilled down to its core components: a malt base, natural and artificial flavors, and artificial sweeteners. It is a 5% ABV, zero-sugar, zero-caffeine beverage brewed by The Boston Beer Company under license from PepsiCo. Unlike the original, it contains gluten and utilizes artificial sweeteners for its flavor profile. For adult fans of the original soda seeking an alcoholic alternative, it offers a way to experience the familiar taste with a different set of ingredients and nutritional facts.
For more detailed information and to find where Hard MTN DEW is available, you can visit the official FAQ page on the Hard MTN DEW website(https://www.hardmountaindew.com/faq).
