Special Edition | The Full Lineup by HOP WTR

Try Blood Orange and Lime

After seeing HOP WTR consistently featured in my instagram feed (@buzzfreebrews), I finally gave in and purchased the full lineup on the company’s 2nd birthday. It helped that they provided a 50% off deal that day. HOP WTR is perhaps the most expensive seltzer water I’ve ever seen. The mixed 12-pack runs for $36.99 (that’s more than $3/can), exceeding the price point for most other nonalcoholic brews.

HOP WTR’s full line-up includes the following flavors: Classic, Blood Orange, Mango, Lime and Peach—all of which feature Citra, Amarillo, Mosaic and Azacca hops. These give this seltzer water more body but they don’t make this drink an IPA nor a near beer.

HOP WTR also packs 120% of recommended daily Vitamin C through the addition of ascorbic acid for freshness. Adaptogens and nootropics, specifically ashwagandha and L-Theanine — which can be found in green and black tea as well as in some mushrooms — are added for their stress-reducing properties and to give you a little pick-me-up that just might help you focus and sleep better. I suspect it’s these functional components that make this seltzer water extra pricy.

According to co-founder and CEO Jordan Bass in an interview with Forbes:

“Often times, you’ll crack a cold beer to relax or mellow out for a while…We really wanted to mimic that from a functional standpoint and provide an experience that helps people unwind and rebalance.”

Admittedly, I did get a little kick out of this seltzer water and it’s a nice alternative to nonalcoholic beer, when I am trying to cleanse my palette or want something refreshing and relaxing, with no carbs or calories. (HOP WTR is gluten free, too). Other consumers have lauded the “subtle calming effects” and “how they help [you] relax and still feel alert.”

Among all the flavors on offer right now, I like Blood Orange and Lime the best. The citrus tones complement the hops very well. Mango and Peach hint at those fruits, while tasting a bit artificial to me. The Classic tasted like a more full-bodied seltzer water to me but didn’t have much flavor otherwise.

I’ve enjoyed these on my paddle board, in the car, after a climbing session, and in the hot tub.

Available on Amazon and directly from HOP WTR online.