Vodka Soda Premix and the Rise of Zero Sugar Seltzers in Australia

What is a hard seltzer?

A hard seltzer is carbonated water mixed with alcohol and a light fruit flavour. The alcohol comes either from a fermented sugar or malt base, or from a distilled spirit such as vodka. The drink is usually clear, light and low in calories, with a typical strength of 4 to 5 per cent ABV.

Hard seltzer took off first in the United States and then in Australia, where it fitted the demand for lighter, lower-sugar drinks that suit warm weather.

How is vodka soda premix different?

A vodka soda premix is simply vodka, soda water and flavour in a can. Some seltzers use a fermented base rather than vodka, and some drinks are blended spirits. The practical difference is mostly in taste: spirit-based premixes often taste cleaner and crisper.

Browse our vodka premix collection and zero sugar seltzers collection to compare packs and flavours.

Explore: Shop zero sugar seltzers

What does zero sugar really mean?

Under food labelling rules, claims such as “zero sugar” or “sugar free” must meet specific criteria, and a drink can contain alcohol and still be low or free of sugar. Alcohol itself is not sugar, but it does contribute calories.

Always check the nutrition information panel on the can, which shows sugars per 100 mL and per serve. Compare two products by that figure rather than relying on the claim on the front of the pack.

Are zero sugar seltzers healthier?

They can be a lighter choice than sugary premixes, because they have less sugar and fewer calories. They are still alcoholic drinks, and alcohol carries health risks. The Australian guidelines recommend no more than ten standard drinks a week and no more than four on any one day.

Treat zero-sugar seltzers as a lighter alternative rather than a health product, and check the label for the number of standard drinks.

How do you compare seltzer brands?

Look at five things: ABV, standard drinks per can, sugar per 100 mL, flavour range and pack size. Some brands are sold in cases of 24 cans, which suits parties and good value, while others come in 4 or 6 packs.

Strength varies more than people expect: most seltzers are 4 to 5 per cent, but the Saint D9 and Strong D9 seltzers in our collection are 9.9 per cent ABV, about 2.9 standard drinks in a 375 mL can and 3.9 in a 500 mL can. Then taste a few flavours. Citrus and berry are the most popular, but tropical and stone fruit options are growing. If you want something stronger or sweeter, read our premix guide.

How do you serve seltzers?

Serve very cold, in the can, or over ice with a slice of citrus or fresh fruit. You can also use vodka soda premix as a base: add a squeeze of lime, or a splash of juice for a longer drink.

For mixed drinks you make yourself, a good soda water and fresh citrus are the key. See our guide to the best mixers.

What should you know before buying?

Check the best-before date, the ABV and the standard-drink count. Seltzers taste best fresh and cold. Store cans away from heat and sunlight.

Buyers must be 18 or over. If you are watching sugar or calories, always compare the nutrition panel rather than the marketing on the front of the can.

How do seltzers compare with light beer, premix and wine?

Seltzers are usually lighter, cleaner and lower in sugar than traditional premix, and they have less flavour than beer or wine. Light beer is similar in alcohol but has a malty taste, while wine contains more alcohol per serve and more complexity.

Seltzers are a good fit for people who want something refreshing and simple. If you want more flavour, a spirit and soda or a spritz made at home gives you more control.

How do you read the nutrition panel?

Australian labels show energy in kilojoules (kJ) and sugars in grams, both per serve and per 100 mL. Compare the “per 100 mL” columns to fairly compare cans of different sizes. A drink with 0 g sugar per 100 mL has no sugars, while one with a small amount may still be described as low sugar.

Remember that alcohol itself contains energy, so a zero-sugar seltzer still has kilojoules. Count standard drinks as well as sugar.

What are the best ways to serve seltzers?

Serve very cold in the can or pour over ice in a tall glass, and add a slice of lime, lemon or fresh berries. You can also use fruit-flavoured seltzers as a spritz base with a splash of vodka or gin for a stronger drink.

For parties, keep a mix of flavours and pack cans in a cooler. Pair with light food such as salads, seafood and grilled chicken. Read more about mixers for a home bar if you want to make your own.

Who are zero sugar seltzers best for?

They suit people who want a lighter, lower-sugar alcoholic drink, those who find sweet premix too sugary, and anyone who prefers a simple, refreshing can. They also suit active lifestyles, summer events and casual get-togethers.

They are less suitable if you want a strong cocktail flavour or a high-alcohol drink. Some people also dislike the neutral flavour. As with any alcoholic drink, they are not suitable for people who are pregnant, driving or under 18.

How do you choose and buy a seltzer in Australia?

Check that the listing shows the ABV, the pack size, the standard drinks and the flavour. Compare per-can prices across pack sizes, as cases of 24 are often cheaper per can. Look at the best-before date and storage advice.

Because the category is new and product names can be similar, read the full product description and nutrition panel before you buy. Explore the range in our zero sugar seltzers collection and vodka premix collection.