The popularity of seltzers, both non-alcoholic and hard, has surged in recent years, with many individuals seeking a refreshing, low-calorie alternative during summer. These drinks, often characterised by their fruity flavours and lightness, have become a favourite among celebrities, festival attendees, and daily commuters. Typically containing up to 5% alcohol by volume, they offer an option comparable to a standard lager, while being low in calories and sugar.
The landmark arrival of White Claw in the UK in 2020 catalysed the rise of seltzers. With about 100 calories per can, these beverages often feature natural flavourings and a simple ingredients list, reinforcing their image as a lighter choice among canned drinks. A range of 25 seltzers was evaluated to identify the top options that should make it to your next picnic setup this summer.
Top Picks in 2026
Exceptionally Sustainable Choice: Served
For £10.50, Served offers a pack of six 250ml cans through major retailers like Ocado and Amazon. Co-owned by singer Ellie Goulding, the seltzer is notable for its eco-friendly approach, using misshapen fruits and quadruple-distilled beet vodka. With its raspberry variety embodying fresh, sweet notes, each can contains 95 calories, making it an indulgent yet responsible choice.
Outstanding Soft Seltzer: Dash Pink Lady
Priced at £15.99 for a dozen 330ml cans from Dash Water and Amazon, Dash Pink Lady apple sparkling water distinguishes itself by using surplus fruits and spring water. With zero sugar and calorie content, the flavour is a subtly sour apple that’s hydrating and delightful for those refraining from alcohol. Dash’s impressive environmental credentials, as a B Corp certified entity, further enhance its appeal.
Light and Refreshing: Melleau
A 330ml can of Melleau sparkling vodka soda, available for £4.50 at Dead Time, boasts a modest alcohol content of 3.4% ABV. This choice offers a blend of adult flavours with botanicals and juices creating a sophisticated taste profile without added sugars. With approximately 95 calories per serving, selections like Tahiti lime and yuzu, raspberry and calamansi, and others provide enjoyment without overindulgence.
Kombucha Infused: Buci
Available at DrinkSupermarket for £29.99 and £39.99 depending on the pack, Buci combines the characteristics of seltzer with kombucha. Comprising carbonated fermented green tea, it delicately balances flavours like wild berries and ginger with lemon, at 110 to 115 calories and 5% ABV. The result is a drink that’s crisp and flavourful, offering a healthy alternative to sugary cocktails.
Supermarket Staple: Marks & Spencer
For £2 per 250ml can at Ocado, this option from Marks & Spencer commands attention with its 75 calories, despite having a robust 4.5% ABV. Its lemon and lime variant immerses drinkers in a refreshing, zestful experience with a light sweetness, making it great value.
Intriguingly Savoury: Yew Pickle
Retailing at Ocado for £3.95 for four 330ml cans, Yew Pickle introduces a pickle-flavoured twist on seltzers. With a cucumber base and hints of dill pickle, it’s a unique, sugar-free choice with only 2kcal per 100ml. Suitable for mixing with stronger spirits or enjoyed solo, it caters particularly to those with savoury palates.
Small-Batch Charm: Deap Nethergate
The apple and elderflower or blueberry and lime varieties from Deap Nethergate offer a delightful taste experience from the Suffolk-based brewery, for £14 per dozen 250ml cans. At 3.4% ABV and 96 calories per can, the flavours embody a delicate blend ideal for leisurely daytime consumption.
Best Tasting: High Water
Costing £27.99 from High Water or Amazon, High Water’s mixed pack stands out with prominent, natural tastes. Its cucumber and mint flavour evokes a vibrant garden atmosphere, while mango and peach delivers a naturally sweet, tropical experience. Containing 5% British vodka, the products support Just One Ocean charity initiatives via 1% of profits.
Craft Elegance: Arrowtown
Artisan in approach, Arrowtown’s offerings at £27.95 feature black cherry with apple, and peach with raspberry, paralleling White Claw’s flavour appeal through a refined edge. With a 4.5% ABV and 109 calories, Arrowtown commits to environmental conservation efforts, contributing to ocean clean-up with each purchase.
Dominating Brand: White Claw
Still a favourite, White Claw maintains its position with an 8-pack of 330ml cans priced at £13.75 at Tesco and slightly more at Sainsbury’s. Known for diverse flavours and adherence to core tenets of minimal sugars and natural ingredients, their green apple variant remains a particular standout. Additionally, their new Clawtails lower calorie range, featuring a peach daiquiri, has been well-received.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.