A new drink is making a splash in the world of alcoholic beverage design and that’s hard seltzer.
The hard seltzer industry is booming. It has won the hearts of consumers due to its fizzy nature, and it is expected that sales will reach $5.5 billion by 2025 in US alone. In this crowded cooler though, it’s more than just about flavor – it’s about your label design popping!
Hard seltzer may not seem like the most delectable drink design based on its name alone, but it is gaining in popularity since its inception in 2013. (Yes, it has been around that long but it didn’t really take off until 2018-2019). Let’s find out more about this alcoholic beverage that seems to be taking the world by storm.
What is Hard Seltzer?
Hard seltzer design falls into a sort of beer alternative category. It can be classified along with drinks like wine cooler design and hard lemonades. It comes in individual aluminum cans, some with amazing label design, with fun colors, unique illustrations and trendy package designs, much like soft drink cans design.
Its alcohol comes from fermented sugar, malted grains and adjuncts like rice. Natural or artificial fruity flavors are added. The drink is then carbonated, filtered, and clarified.
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Different brand designs will differ taste-wise, but, in general, hard seltzer can be described as light and fruity with a bit of a malty burn. However, more than the taste, hard seltzer is really taking off because it’s being promoted as a healthier alcohol alternative. The drinks are generally low carb, low calorie and low sugar. Some brand designs also claim all-natural ingredients and gluten-free status.
The hard spritzer label design that goes into some of these new cans is also very ground-breaking. From hipster flair, to pop art, to elegant illustrative design, there’s a style for every sort of consumer, and each branding agency around America is taking advantage of this trend to really push the limits of creativity to deliver designs that pop off the shelves!
American graphic designers now have a completely new type of product to expand their label design skills to try and entice new consumers to this alcoholic design experience. Though nutritional info varies from product to product, the calorie count is usually around 100 (some as low as 50 some as high as 200), carbs, and sugar are generally in the 1-5g range. Alcohol by volume content ranges from 2-6%.
Check out the full list of hard seltzer nutrition facts in the chart below:
The Taste Test
If you are thinking of trying hard seltzer, but you’re not sure where to turn, here are some amazing brands that we recommend:
Arctic Summer Spiked Pineapple Pomelo
• ABV: 5%
• Calories: 110
• Carbs: 3g
• Sugar: <1g
This is a winner for those who just can’t get enough of that tropical taste. Pineapple plays the starring role but the pomelo provides a wonderful balance for a bright, fresh flavor.
Smirnoff Berry Lemonade
• ABV: 4.5%
• Calories: 90
• Carbs: 1g
• Sugar-free
The Smirnoff company can’t go wrong. When it comes to hard seltzer, they’ve outdone themselves with a drink that tastes like lemonade flavored with berries. It provides a crisp, clean taste. The design uses a simplified and vertical Smirnoff logo to give it a more modern look.
Press Blood Orange Chili
• ABV: 4%
• Calories: 100
• Carbs: 7g
• Sugar: 5g
Spicy hard seltzer, you say? No way, you say! Way, we say! Press brings a hard seltzer that will give fans of spice something to live for. The flavor is so strong, even the aroma will blow you away. It mixes nicely with the blood orange twist. Drink it over ice to avoid the burn. The minimalistic can design of Press is sure to get the attention of those who prefer less over more.
Omission Pomegranate Blueberry Açaí
• ABV: 4%
• Calories: 90
• ABV: 1 g
• Sugar-free
This hard seltzer has a distinctly lemony flavor with a hint of berries. Its crisp, clean taste really hits the spot on a summer day.
The bold “O” logo design commands attention on the shelf, and the distinct, bright coloring makes it easy to shop for your favorite flavor.
Seekout Real Hard Seltzer Cucumber and Juniper
• ABV: 5%
• Calories: 100
• Carbs: less than 1 g
• Sugar: 2g from fruit
Many would argue that nothing is as complementary to seltzer than cucumber. If you enjoy the flavor combination, the seltzer definitely provides a distinct mix of the two. It can be described as being reminiscent as Hendrick’s gin. Spike your seltzer with it for an added kick. The design is a playful, whimsical illustration to showcase the bold flavors.
Truly Hard Seltzer Orange
• ABV: 5%
• Calories: 100
• Carbs: 2 g
• Sugar: 1g
Truly is one of the top brands for hard seltzer. Their hard-orange drink has a distinct orange flavor that hits you right out of the gate. It can be compared to Fanta Orange but it is not as sweet.
Kona Spiked Island Seltzer Strawberry Guava
• ABV: 5%
• Calories: 100
• Carbs: 2 g
• Sugar-free
The guava and strawberry flavors blend well in this tropical hard seltzer combo. The taste is lively but the fruits provide a subtle taste that makes the drink sophisticated.
True to the Kona brand, this can design is illustrated with luscious Hawaiian flowers and leaves to give it an island flair.
Monday Night Brewing Narwater Blueberry Raspberry
• ABV: 4.7%
• Calories: 90
• Carbs: 4 g
• Sugar: 2 g
This seltzer’s rose color will brighten up any Monday night. The tart taste of the raspberries is complemented by the fainter taste of blueberries. As an added bonus, it’s made from real fruit.
Wild Basin Melon Basil
• ABV: 5%
• Calories: 100
• Carbs: 1 g
• Sugar-free
The wonderful watermelon flavor is balanced by hints of basil. The overall result is an all-natural taste with no bitterness and a terrific blend.
Pompette Cucumber Lime
• ABV: 5%
• Calories: 160
• Carbs: 5 g
• Sugar: 2 g
This hard seltzer sets itself apart due to the fact that it comes in a 750-milliliter bottle which makes it stand out from the smaller aluminum cans. Its cucumber taste hits you on the nose and it is nicely accompanied with a lime follow up. It is great for the beach, picnics or it can also be mixed with harder liquors.
The upscale, minimalist design sets it apart from most of the other sparkling waters here.
Barefoot Strawberry & Guava
• ABV: 4%
• Calories: 70
• Carbs: 5 g
• Sugar: 2 g
This strawberry guava blend just oozes strawberries. The taste is followed by a hint of herbs and tropical fruit. It has a full-bodied flavor that produces an overall pleasing effect.
Brizzy Mixed Berry Mojito
• ABV: 5%
• Calories: 100
• Carbs: 2 g
• Sugar: 1 g
When you drink this seltzer, you will immediately be hit by the taste of berries. However, the mint follow-up will let you know exactly why this hard seltzer was given the name ‘mojito’. It has a refined yet vibrant taste.
Bon V!V Black Cherry
• ABV: 4.5%
• Calories: 90
• Carbs: 1 g
• Sugar-free
As soon as you see this hard seltzer’s purple color, you will know it’s time to party. Its taste can be described as a mix of cherries, almond and rose. The floral notes give it a hint of complexity but the overall texture is crisp and dry. The recent logo change, a hierarchy swap with the name and icon illustration, was a smart improvement to this seltzer’s brand design.
Fick’s Cranberry
• ABV: 5%
• Calories: 100
• Carbs: 3 g
• Sugar-free
Cranberry is an unusual flavor in the world of hard seltzer but Fick’s makes it work. It may be the addition of real fruit that sets it apart but, whatever it is, this seltzer packs a punch that is sure to revitalize your senses.
Keep scrolling to see the full list of hard seltzers and their calories, carbs, sugar and alcohol content.
Calories • Carbs • Sugar • ABV
Hard Seltzer
Nutrition Facts
110 cal • 4g carbs • 2g sugar • 5% abv
90 cal • 1g carbs • 0g sugar • 4% abv
90 cal • 1g carbs • 0g sugar • 4.5% abv
100 cal • 2g carbs • 1g sugar • 5% abv
100 cal • 1g carbs • 0g sugar • 5% abv
Pop the Cap on Sales: Why Label Design is the Fizz in Hard Seltzer Success
Imagine a grocery shelf packed full of products. There are many aluminum cans with different colors all calling for attention but with limited space for your label to be the real salesman. How then do you create a label that turns your seltzer into the life of the party and not a wallflower?
1. Every Sip Tells A Story:
Hard seltzer isn’t just a drink – it’s an experience! Your label should capture that essence. For example, White Claw’s minimalist design reminds one of fresh waves and endless summers while Truly uses vibrant fruit illustrations to whisper juicy, fruity flavors.
2. Know Your Tribe:
Those who drink most seltzers are millennials and Gen Zs. They value authenticity, social awareness, and tend to embrace some cheeky rebellion elements here and there. Quit branding yourself as stodgy; instead opt for playful fonts, bright colors, or even tongue-in-cheek humor that would resonate differently “friends at the poolside” vs “a presentation in a boardroom.”
3. Pop, Crackle and Read All About It:
Be clear as possible when designing your labels otherwise you may lose customers who don’t know what they are buying regarding flavor, ABV or ingredients fast enough for their convenience. Use well-designed typography such as clean typefaces bolding key features and avoiding flashy graphics which obscure vital information.
4. Less is More (Unless it's More):
Minimally designed can appear beautiful but less may not always be more at times. Infuse the label with personality through patterns, textures, or even unexpected materials such as fabric and foil. Just don’t overdo it – you want your brand to shine not your printing budget.
5. Sustainability Sells:
Eco-minded consumers want brands that reflect their value systems. So go green by using recycled materials, biodegradable inks, or make sure your label highlights organic ingredients if this is true for you.
The Final Fizz:
Remember that the label is like the first impression. It is a conversation starter, mood setter and a silent promise of refreshing deliciousness. A good design calls for investment while telling your story and slowly but surely taking your hard seltzer brand to be on top of fizzy food chain. Therefore, take creative risks and let your label design speak volumes when it comes to skyrocketing sales!
Bonus Tip: Do not underestimate the power of social media in driving sales up for you. Design labels that scream Instagram: encourage user-generated content and organic brand advocacy. Remember, a seltzer that looks good online tastes even better in hand.
By following these tips, you can craft a label that’s as bubbly and refreshing as your hard seltzer itself. So go forth, unleash your inner artist, and design your way to seltzer success!
Do you have a hard seltzer product of your own that you need a brand and label design for? We here at Lien Design have over 20 years of experience creating successful, creative, and engaging package design. Contact us today for a free estimate.
©2022 Lien Design. All designs and trademarks are the property of their respective companies and are being shown for educational purposes only.