Hard seltzer is a type of alcohol made from carbonated water, alcohol, and flavoring. With a low alcohol level on average (usually 4% to 6% alcohol by volume), hard seltzer is commonly used for lighter celebrations in place of hard liquor or for those with a low tolerance to alcohol.
One brand that produces a wide range of hard seltzer is Michelob, which include its popular line of Michelob Ultra Organic Seltzers.
In this article, we are going to look at Michelob’s history and how to drink this beverage, as well as look at the specific variations of seltzer from the brand. By the end of this article, you should have a clear idea about the brand, what exactly is hard seltzer, and whether you will be trying it.
A Brief History of Michelob Ultra
Starting as a beer brand, Michelob was introduced in 1896 by Anheuser-Busch as draught beers in high-end establishments. The brand has had an interesting history which led to the establishment of its hard seltzers.
In 1961 the brand began bottling its beer in glass, teardrop-shaped bottles with the design of the bottle changing over the years. Michelob ULTRA debuted in 2003 as a light beer, becoming the official beer sponsor of the PGA and LPGA in 2004, beginning their reputation as a popular brand.
The drink was then converted to be sold in slim cans in 2007 as it adjusted to demands from consumers and popular drink packaging at the time. Michelob Ultra has its first advert premiered at the 2016 Super Bowl, continuing the brand’s growth in the public eye.
It was only in 2020 after the success of the brand increased demand that the Organic Seltzers were launched. Since this debut, the hard seltzer collection has continued to grow to now incorporate 12 flavors across 3 collections. Each collection is made slightly differently with different flavors and base ingredients incorporated.
Deeper Look at the Michelob Ultra Organic Seltzer Offerings
Across the various seltzers available from Michelob, three variety packs have been compiled to group the seltzers by type. These seltzers are made with different flavorings and contain different levels of carbohydrates and different calorie contents.
The Signature Collection contains 80 calories, while the Coconut Water and Classic Collection contain 90 calories. However, all 12 seltzers contain 4% alcohol by volume (ABV) which is equivalent to 8-proof making it a light alcohol beverage.
Variety Pack 1, which is titled the Signature Collection, is made to contain 0 grams of carbohydrates and is made with organic fruit flavoring. The seltzers that form part of this pack are Watermelon Strawberry, Cucumber Lime, Spicy Pineapple, and Grapefruit Melon.
Variety Pack 2, also known as the Classic Collection, is made with real fruit juice, with this pack made up of Black Cherry, Citrus, Mixed Berry, and Mango Apricot. These seltzers contain 2 grams of carbohydrates and 90 calories per can. As a gluten-free option, this range of seltzers is a good option for celebrations for gluten-intolerant individuals.
Finally, the Coconut Water pack is made with real fruit juice and coconut water with a unique blue packaging to differentiate it. The seltzers in this pack are Blueberry Watermelon, Berry Hibiscus, Kiwi Lime, and Strawberry Guava Seltzer. Each seltzer contains 90 calories per serving and 0 grams of sugar making it a healthier option.
Michelob Seltzer has grown in popularity since its introduction, having been established on the brand’s successful beer line. The newest seltzers available from the brand form part of the Classic Collection, with the specific seltzers being the Citrus, Mango Apricot, and Mixed Berry flavors.
Item | Average Price | Size per Can |
Michelob Ultra Blueberry Watermelon Seltzer | $2,49 | 12 ounces |
Michelob Ultra Strawberry Guava Seltzer | $2,49 | 12 ounces |
Michelob Ultra Berry Hibiscus Seltzer | $2,49 | 12 ounces |
Michelob Ultra Kiwi Lime Seltzer | $2,49 | 12 ounces |
Michelob Ultra Black Cherry Seltzer | $2,49 | 12 ounces |
Michelob Ultra Citrus Seltzer | $2,49 | 12 ounces |
Michelob Ultra Mango Apricot Seltzer | $2,49 | 12 ounces |
Michelob Ultra Mixed Berry Seltzer | $2,49 | 12 ounces |
Michelob Ultra Grapefruit Melon Seltzer | $2,49 | 12 ounces |
Michelob Ultra Watermelon Strawberry Seltzer | $2,49 | 12 ounces |
Michelob Ultra Spicey Pineapple Seltzer | $2,49 | 12 ounces |
Michelob Ultra Cucumber Lime Seltzer | $2,49 | 12 ounces |
Alternatives to Michelob Ultra Organic Seltzer
1. Más Agave Premium Hard Seltzer
Established in 2019, Más Agave is a brand of premium hard seltzer owned by Founders Brewing Co. Their seltzers are made at an alcohol content of 8% ABV (16 proof) making it a higher alcohol content than Michelob. Their seltzers are made with cane sugar and real fruit juice, like Michelob, as well as blue agave nectar.
There are 6 seltzers that form part of this range, each available in 355 ml cans with varying alcohol contents. Cherry Lemonade, Blackberry Lemonade, and Lemonade are all made with an ABV of 8% (16 proof). Watermelon, Lime, and Strawberry are all made with an ABV of 4,5% (9 proof) putting them at a similar level to Michelob.
2. Flying Embers Hard Seltzers
Having been established in 2017, Flying Embers was created by a group of individuals to create an organic and sustainable seltzer brand. The brand works to continuously reduce its carbon footprint, by turning its social media into carbon-positive platforms and using cardboard rings to package its product.
There are 2 collections of hard seltzer, the Botanicals and Bitters, and their Sweet and Heat hard seltzer. The Botanicals and Bitters collection contains Blood Orange, Black Lime Juniper, and Cranberry Raspberry flavors. The Sweet and Heat collection contains Watermelon Chili, Guava Jalapeno, and Pineapple Cayenne flavorings.
3. Vizzy Hard Seltzer
Vizzy Hard Seltzer was established in 2019 to provide a gluten-free and tasty hard seltzer for the market. containing 100 calories per serving at an alcohol content of 5% (10 proof), this seltzer is a healthy option with only 2 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of sugar per serving.
There are 5 collections available from the brand including their Variety Pack 1, Variety Pack 2, Lemonade Seltzer, Watermelon Seltzer, and Mimosa range. Each range is made up of 12-ounce or 24-ounce cans, with some containing no gluten or sugar, and less than 1 gram of carbohydrates.
How to Drink Michelob Ultra Organic Seltzer
Michelob Ultra has a wide range of recipes available to incorporate their hard seltzers for any event. To make a G&S, you will need gin, cucumber ribbons, a slice of lime, and cucumber juice. Start by combining 1 ounce of gin and ½ an ounce of cucumber juice in a shaker. Shake to combine the ingredients.
Next, pour the mixture over crushed ice in a glass and top it with Cucumber Lime Seltzer. Stir to combine the ingredients and garnish with the lime slice and cucumber ribbons. This is a refreshing and tasty drink for someone wanting to drink something alcoholic with a light and fresh taste.
Another drink made with the Mixed Berry seltzer is a Mixed Berry Spritz. Before making the drink, prep the glass by sprinkling some mixed berries in the glass and filling it with ice. Slice a lime wheel to cut a notch and place it on the rim of the glass.
Next, combine 1 pinch of salt, ½ an ounce of fresh lime juice, ½ an ounce of Aperol, and 1 ounce of Tequila Blanco in a glass. Stir to combine the ingredients and top with Mixed Berry Seltzer.
This is a good drink option for someone who enjoys the sweetness of berries as the berries in the glass will soak up the alcohol as a post-drink snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of alcohol is in Michelob seltzer?
Michelob seltzer is made with fermented cane sugar or malted barley. This beverage does not contain calories, carbohydrates, or sugar making it an ideal option for those wanting to mind their calorie intake or those with dietary requirements.
Is Michelob Ultra a beer brand?
Aside from their seltzer offerings, Michelob produces a range of beers with 4 categories: Ultra, Pure Gold, Infusions, and Amber MAX. this makes the brand a popular option as their offerings include both beer and seltzer, appealing to a wider audience.
What does Michelob Seltzer taste like?
Michelob seltzer has a feeling on the tongue like carbonated water, with the actual taste of each seltzer reflecting the fruit juice or organic flavoring that is used to make it. This leads to the seltzer having a soft and clear feel and taste, making it a tasty drink option.
Is seltzer the same as beer?
Beer is made with grains and additives which results in a golden-amber-colored liquid. Meanwhile, seltzer is made with cane sugar and fruit flavoring which results in a clear and fruity flavor. The only similarity between beer and seltzer is the similar alcohol content but they are not the same.