What Kind of Alcohol Is in White Claw? Hard Seltzer Facts

White Claw has taken the world by storm as one of the most popular hard seltzer brands. With its crisp taste, fruity flavors, and low-calorie profile, it’s a favorite among casual drinkers and fitness-conscious consumers alike. But a common question arises: what kind of alcohol is in White Claw? Is it beer, liquor, or something else entirely?

This comprehensive guide will cover:

• The type of alcohol in White Claw

• How White Claw is made

• Alcohol by volume (ABV) content

• Comparison with Truly and other hard seltzers

• Nutritional information and calories

• FAQs about White Claw’s alcohol content

What Kind of Alcohol Is in White Claw?

The alcohol in White Claw comes from fermented sugar alcohol, often referred to as a neutral alcohol base. Unlike beer or wine, which are brewed from grains or grapes, White Claw uses fermentation of sugars to produce alcohol. This process creates a clean, neutral-tasting alcohol, which is then combined with sparkling water, natural flavors, and a touch of carbonation.

Key points:

• Not malt liquor: While malt-based beers contain alcohol from grains, White Claw’s alcohol is derived from fermented sugar.

• Not distilled liquor: White Claw is not a spirit like vodka or rum.

• Neutral alcohol base: This gives White Claw a crisp, light taste that allows fruit flavors to shine.

How White Claw Is Made

The production of White Claw follows several steps to achieve its signature taste and alcohol content:

• Fermentation of Sugars: Sugars, often derived from cane sugar or malted barley, are fermented to create a neutral alcohol base.

• Filtration: The alcohol is filtered to remove impurities and create a clean flavor.

• Carbonation: Sparkling water is added to produce effervescence.

• Flavoring: Natural fruit flavors, like mango, black cherry, lime, or raspberry, are added.

• Bottling/Canning: The final beverage is packaged with precise ABV content (usually 5%).

This process distinguishes White Claw from beer or cider, making it a spiked seltzer or hard seltzer rather than a traditional alcoholic drink.

White Claw Alcohol By Volume (ABV)

The alcohol by volume (ABV) of White Claw is typically 5%, similar to many standard beers.

• Low-calorie profile: Each 12-ounce can has roughly 100 calories.

• Moderate alcohol: 5% ABV makes White Claw suitable for casual drinking.

• Consistency: Each flavor maintains the same ABV, ensuring predictable effects for consumers.

The consistent 5% ABV contributes to White Claw’s popularity as a light and refreshing alternative to beer, cocktails, and malt liquor.

Comparison With Truly and Other Hard Seltzers

White Claw is often compared to other hard seltzers, especially Truly. Both are spiked seltzers, but there are slight differences:

While both brands use fermented sugar alcohol, White Claw has become iconic for its ultra-light flavor and minimal ingredients.

Is White Claw Considered Beer?

Many people wonder if White Claw is a type of beer. The answer is no.

• Beer is malt-based: Made from barley, hops, yeast, and water

• White Claw uses sugar alcohol: It does not contain malt or hops

• Category: White Claw falls under hard seltzer or spiked sparkling water, not beer

This distinction matters for consumers who want a gluten-free alcoholic option, as White Claw contains little to no gluten.

What About White Claw Surge and Other Variants?

White Claw has expanded its product line to include White Claw Surge, which has:

• Higher ABV (8%)

• Larger can size (16 oz)

• Same neutral alcohol base and fruit flavors

The alcohol content in Surge is slightly stronger, making it more comparable to strong beers or light cocktails.

White Claw Nutritional Information

White Claw is marketed as a low-calorie, low-sugar alcoholic beverage, which is why it’s popular among health-conscious drinkers. Typical nutrition facts:

• Calories: ~100 per 12 oz can

• Sugar: 2 grams or less

• Carbs: 2 grams

• ABV: 5% (standard)

• Gluten-free: Yes, due to sugar-based alcohol

This combination of light calories, low sugar, and moderate alcohol makes White Claw ideal for casual summer drinking or low-calorie social events.

White Claw vs Traditional Alcohol Types

Here’s how White Claw compares to other types of alcohol:

White Claw occupies a unique niche: low-calorie, low-alcohol, flavored beverage that is lighter than beer and easier to drink than spirits.

FAQs About White Claw Alcohol

What kind of alcohol is in White Claw?

White Claw contains fermented sugar alcohol, also called a neutral alcohol base, which is carbonated and flavored with fruit extracts.

Is White Claw a hard seltzer?

Yes, White Claw is classified as a hard seltzer, a type of spiked sparkling water.

Does White Claw contain malt liquor?

No, White Claw does not contain malt liquor or hops like beer. It is sugar-fermented and gluten-free.

What is the ABV of White Claw?

Most White Claw flavors have 5% ABV, while White Claw Surge has 8% ABV.

How does White Claw compare to Truly?

Both use fermented sugar alcohol with 5% ABV, but flavor variety and brand preference differ.

Is White Claw gluten-free?

Yes, since it uses a sugar-based alcohol, White Claw is generally gluten-free.

Understanding White Claw Alcohol

White Claw is a modern alcoholic beverage that appeals to those seeking light, low-calorie, and refreshing drinks. The alcohol in White Claw:

• Comes from fermented sugar, not malt or spirits

• Provides a neutral flavor that highlights fruit essence

• Maintains a 5% ABV for standard flavors, slightly higher in Surge

• Fits into the growing hard seltzer category, offering a healthier alternative to beer or cocktails

Knowing what kind of alcohol is in White Claw helps you make informed choices, track your alcohol intake, and enjoy this popular beverage responsibly. Whether you’re at a backyard barbecue or a beach party, White Claw offers refreshing flavor with moderate alcohol content, perfect for social drinking without the heaviness of beer or cocktails.