Comparing the Alcohol by Volume (ABV)
For standard, 12-ounce hard seltzer cans, there is a clear and consistent difference in alcohol content between the flagship products of High Noon and White Claw. A standard can of White Claw contains 5% alcohol by volume (ABV), while a standard can of High Noon contains 4.5% ABV. This makes the classic White Claw slightly more potent than the classic High Noon.
The Impact of Base Alcohol
One of the most significant differences between these two brands is the source of their alcohol. White Claw uses a fermented gluten-free alcohol base, typically derived from fermented cane sugar. In contrast, High Noon is made with real distilled spirits, like vodka or tequila, combined with sparkling water and real fruit juice. This use of a distilled spirit versus a fermented cane sugar base contributes to High Noon's often-praised "cleaner" taste by some consumers, though both are refreshing options.
Higher-Proof Options: White Claw Surge
While standard products have a modest ABV difference, it is important to be aware of the higher-alcohol options available. White Claw offers a 'Surge' line of hard seltzers, which have a significantly higher ABV of 8%. High Noon also offers different products, including iced teas and tequila seltzers, though their standard ABV typically remains at 4.5%. This means that for a stronger drink, White Claw's Surge line surpasses any standard High Noon option.
Calorie and Ingredient Breakdown
For most people watching their nutrition, calories and sugar are just as important as alcohol content. Both High Noon and White Claw have earned their popularity in part due to their relatively low-calorie profiles compared to other alcoholic beverages. A standard 12-ounce can of both High Noon and White Claw contains around 100 calories. However, slight differences exist in their ingredients and other nutritional metrics:
- High Noon: Made with real fruit juice and real vodka (or tequila). While it proudly advertises no added sugar in many of its standard offerings, the use of real juice can result in a slightly different nutritional composition compared to malt-based seltzers. High Noon's Tequila Seltzer line also contains 100 calories and no added sugar.
- White Claw: Uses a fermented cane sugar base and natural flavors. Standard White Claw has a low sugar content (around 2g per 12oz can), which is still very low compared to many other ready-to-drink beverages. The 8% ABV Surge line has higher calories and sugar due to the increased alcohol content, but still less than many cocktails.
High Noon vs. White Claw: A Nutritional Comparison Table
To provide a clearer picture for those focused on a nutrition diet, here is a breakdown of the key figures for their standard 12-ounce offerings. Note that regional variations and specific product lines like High Noon Iced Tea or White Claw Surge will differ.
| Feature | High Noon (Standard) | White Claw (Standard) |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol by Volume (ABV) | 4.5% | 5% (US & Canada) |
| Calorie Count (per 12oz) | 100 | 100 |
| Primary Alcohol Base | Real Vodka or Tequila | Fermented Cane Sugar |
| Added Sugar | None in many standard products | 2g per 12oz can (Standard) |
| Carbohydrates | Varies slightly based on juice content | 2g (Standard) |
| Taste Profile | Often cleaner with more distinct fruit flavor from real juice | Lighter fruit flavor with higher effervescence |
Choosing for Your Nutrition Diet
Deciding between High Noon and White Claw largely depends on your personal priorities. If you are extremely sensitive to any alcohol content and prefer a slightly milder option, standard High Noon has a 0.5% lower ABV. However, both brands offer products with identical calorie counts for their standard cans, making them similar in that respect.
- For taste preference: High Noon's use of real spirits and fruit juice appeals to many who prefer a more authentic fruit flavor. White Claw's fermented sugar base and lighter profile may be preferred by those who enjoy a more subtle, fizzy experience.
- For gluten-free needs: Both brands are gluten-free, which is a major draw for those with gluten sensitivity.
- For managing calories: Since standard cans of both have 100 calories, the choice becomes less about a caloric advantage and more about other nutritional factors like the source of alcohol and flavorings.
- For higher alcohol content: If you are seeking a stronger hard seltzer, White Claw's 'Surge' line at 8% ABV is the clear winner over High Noon's standard offerings.
Ultimately, when it comes to hard seltzers and a healthy lifestyle, moderation is key. While they are lower in calories than many other alcoholic drinks, they still contain "empty calories" and should be consumed responsibly as part of a balanced diet. For further reading on comparing different alcoholic beverages, see this resource from Texas Health Resources.
Conclusion
While the difference is small, White Claw's standard hard seltzer has slightly more alcohol (5% ABV) than High Noon's standard product (4.5% ABV). High Noon uses real vodka or tequila, while White Claw uses fermented cane sugar. For those seeking higher alcohol, White Claw's Surge line offers an 8% ABV option, which exceeds High Noon's standard products. Both are similarly low in calories, making the choice between them a matter of taste preference, ingredient source, and whether you're interested in the higher-alcohol versions.
