Cacti Seltzer's Alcohol Content Varies by Release
When asking "What percentage of alcohol is in a cacti drink?", the answer depends on which version of the Cacti seltzer is being referenced. The product, originally launched in 2021 by rapper Travis Scott and Anheuser-Busch, has undergone a significant change in its formula and alcohol content following its relaunch.
The Original 2021 Cacti Agave Spiked Seltzer (Discontinued)
The initial release of Cacti in March 2021 featured a 7% ABV (alcohol by volume). This higher alcohol content was a major point of differentiation from competitors like White Claw and Truly, which typically contained 5% ABV. The drink was made with 100% premium blue agave from Mexico, which gave it a distinctive flavor profile, but the alcohol came from fermented cane sugar. The original version was available in flavors like Lime, Pineapple, and Strawberry. Anheuser-Busch discontinued this version in December 2021.
The Relaunched 2024 Cacti Hard Seltzer 2.0
After a hiatus, Travis Scott relaunched the Cacti brand independently in early 2024. This new version, Cacti Hard Seltzer 2.0, has a lower alcohol content of 5% ABV. The reformulated drink also features a lower calorie count and different flavors compared to the original, such as Berry Splash, Tropical Twist, Citrus Haze, and Paradise Slice. This shift to a lighter product aligns with market trends towards lower-calorie, lower-ABV hard seltzers while maintaining its agave-flavored profile.
How Cacti's ABV Compares to Other Hard Seltzers
The hard seltzer market is highly competitive, and Cacti's strategy has evolved to meet shifting consumer demands. The change from a higher-ABV, higher-calorie product to a standard-ABV, lower-calorie version reflects an industry-wide trend toward lighter, more sessionable drinks. The initial 7% ABV positioned Cacti as a more potent option, while the current 5% ABV places it on par with most market leaders. The use of agave as a flavoring agent remains a core differentiator for the brand.
Hard Seltzer ABV Comparison
| Feature | Original Cacti (2021) | Cacti 2.0 (2024) | Major Competitors (e.g., White Claw) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alcohol Content (ABV) | 7% | 5% | Typically 5% |
| Calories (12oz can) | 150 | 100 | 100-110 |
| Sugar Content | Less than 1g | 1g | Varies, typically low |
| Flavoring | Agave and natural flavors | Agave and natural flavors | Malt or other fermented sugar bases |
| Availability | Discontinued | Available | Widely available |
The Role of Agave in Cacti Drinks
Despite being a "spiked seltzer" and featuring 100% blue agave, it is important to note that the agave is used for flavoring, not for the alcohol base. The fermentation process that produces the alcohol in Cacti and most other hard seltzers relies on cane sugar, or other sugar sources, which is then distilled to create a neutral alcohol base. The agave is added separately to provide a distinctive flavor, a strategy that plays on the popularity of agave-based spirits like tequila. This provides a point of difference and a smoother taste profile compared to seltzers that use malt or other bases.
Conclusion
The alcohol percentage in a Cacti hard seltzer depends entirely on whether it is the original 2021 version or the relaunched 2024 version. The initial Cacti Agave Spiked Seltzer contained 7% ABV, while the modern Cacti Hard Seltzer 2.0 has a lower 5% ABV. This change reflects a broader industry trend toward lighter, lower-calorie drinks. While both are flavored with agave, the alcohol is derived from fermented cane sugar, a common practice in the hard seltzer market. For consumers, this means checking the can to ensure they are getting the intended alcohol strength. Travis Scott's journey with the Cacti brand showcases the dynamic nature of the beverage industry and the influence of celebrity marketing. For a deeper look at the hard seltzer market, check out this VinePair review.
