We Tried 50 Different Cans of Hard Seltzer to Find the Best Flavors

There's no doubt about it: Hard seltzers are having a moment. Though they first hit shelves years ago, these spiked seltzers have skyrocketed in popularity. (Fun fact: more cans of alcoholic seltzer were sold this past 4th of July weekend than bottles of craft beer and canned wine!) It's no surprise given how most brands are lower in sugar and calories, gluten-free, portable, refreshing, and available in a wide range of flavors. We love these refreshing and lightly boozy bevs to quench our thirst in the backyard or by the pool all summer long.

But, they are so much more than a warm weather drink. Ranging from 80 to 120 calories a pop, they're a lighter option during the holidays — and a guilt-free way to break from your Dry January plans. Plus, with tropical flavors like pineapple and coconut, no matter where you are, one sip will transport you straight to the beach, whether or not you can get there.

No matter the occasion, it's important that you pick the best brand of hard seltzer on the market. We cracked open 50 cans of alcoholic seltzer to find the tastiest, most refreshing flavors (it's a tough job, we know!). Here's how our taste test went: Everyone knew which flavor they were sipping on (i.e. grapefruit, lemon-lime, berry), but the specific brands were kept a secret. Tasters commented on the flavor, bubbles, and overall experience of each drink, then chose a favorite from each category. But first, we stashed all the Truly Spiked & Sparkling, White Claw, Bon & Viv Spiked Seltzer, Smirnoff Sparkling Seltzer, and Henry's Hard Sparkling Water in the fridge for a few hours at least — because no one wants to sip on a lukewarm boozy beverage.

These are the best hard alcoholic seltzers you can buy in 2020: